Scottish hospitality operator Buzzworks has announced plans to acquire The Royal George Hotel in Perth, marking its first move into Perthshire and the latest step in the group’s expansion into accommodation.
Located close to Perth Bridge and overlooking the River Tay, The Royal George Hotel has been at the heart of Perth’s hospitality scene for more than 250 years.
Missives have now concluded on Buzzworks acquisition of property, with planning proposals for the transformation of the venue set to be submitted, and the acquisition expected to complete in January 2027.
Until then, The Royal George Hotel will continue to operate as normal under its current ownership. Following completion, the hotel will temporarily close for a ‘major refurbishment programme’ and the transformed venue is expected to reopen later in 2027.
It will then join Buzzworks’ signature House Collection, which aims to bring together ‘timeless, stylish and comfortable bedrooms with a welcoming pub and restaurant at its heart’.
The project represents another significant step in the family-founded hospitality group’s expansion into accommodation, while establishing Buzzworks in Perthshire for the first time.
“Designed for golf breaks, couples’ getaways, family stays and business travel, guests can expect exceptional hospitality, great food and drink and stylish, comfortable bedrooms, all delivered with the warm, relaxed service Buzzworks is known for.”
The redevelopment will reimagine The Royal George’s restaurant, bedrooms and guest spaces, while introducing a new pub and enhancing the hotel’s historic ballroom.
Led by designer Jim Hamilton, the transformation promises to ‘celebrate The Royal George Hotel’s rich heritage and distinctive character while introducing Buzzworks’ signature approach to hospitality’.
As part of the acquisition, the existing team at The Royal George Hotel will be offered opportunities in the wider Buzzworks business, with the company committed to supporting team members throughout the transition.
When the hotel reopens, there will also be opportunities to be part of the new-look venue, with access to the training, development and career progression that Buzzworks is known for.
Kenny Blair, CEO at Buzzworks, said: “The Royal George Hotel has an incredible history, and we’re delighted to have the opportunity to welcome such a well-known Perth landmark into the Buzzworks family.
“Hospitality has been at the heart of this site for more than 250 years, with its prominent position overlooking the River Tay and long-standing role within the city’s hospitality scene making it a very special venue. There is so much about The Royal George that we want to celebrate and build upon.
“This also marks an exciting milestone for us as our first move into Perthshire. We’re looking forward to becoming part of the local community, building on the hotel’s fantastic legacy and creating something that Perth can be proud of for many years to come.
“We look forward to sharing more details on our plans and welcoming everyone through the doors once the hotel reopens.”
Eddie Anderson, owner of The Royal George Hotel, said: “After more than 26 years at The Royal George, it’s a bittersweet moment for us. Having celebrated my 80th birthday recently, I realise nothing can last forever, and January will bring to a close more than 45 years for me in the hotel industry here in Perth.
“It has been a wonderful journey, and I’d like to thank the many guests who have supported us and all the members of staff, past and present, who have been part of the hotel over the years.
“I’m delighted that Buzzworks will be taking The Royal George into its next chapter. They are an award-winning Scottish hospitality business with exciting plans for the hotel, and I’m confident its future is in very good hands.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved here and excited to see what the future holds for The Royal George. I’ll certainly be popping back in once the transformation is complete.”
