Historic Ayrshire hotel to receive seven-figure makeover under new owner

A historic Ayrshire hotel is set for a new chapter after being bought by a fast-growing Scottish hospitality operator.

The South Beach Hotel is located near Troon’s beachfront and less than a mile from the famous Royal Troon Golf Club.

The hotel has been part of the town’s hospitality scene for more than a century. For 45 years, the hotel was owned and operated by the Watt family, becoming a well-established part of the local community.

The South Beach Hotel is located near Troon’s beachfront in South Ayrshire.

New owner Buzzworks, which manages 24 venues across east, west and central Scotland, said the hotel would continue operating under its current ownership until October before temporarily closing for refurbishment.

Following a major seven-figure redevelopment, the establishment will join the group’s growing House Collection. The redevelopment will create “a destination where guests can eat, drink and stay, while building on the hotel’s long-standing reputation in the town”, Buzzworks added.

The move builds on the group’s well-established presence in Troon, where it already operates Scotts, Lido and The Fox.

The refurbishment will include a “complete reimagining” of the pub, restaurant and guest spaces. When the group officially takes over the hotel in October, the existing team will become part of the Buzzworks family. The firm already employs more than 800 people.

Kenny Blair, chief executive of Buzzworks, said: “The South Beach has everything we look for - a brilliant location, a strong local following and real character. We’re keen to build on its proud history and create something truly memorable - a great pub, great food and a stylish, comfortable stay, all under one roof.

“Our family has known the Watt family for decades, and having been regular visitors to the hotel ourselves, it means a great deal to be entrusted with its future. Our aim is to honour what they’ve built, preserve what people love about it and ensure The South Beach remains a place this town can be proud of for many years to come.”

Stewart Watt added: “It's time for a new chapter, and we're proud to be passing the hotel into the hands of Buzzworks - another Scottish, family-founded business - to take it forward and invest in its future.”