Award-winning Scottish hospitality operator, Buzzworks, has announced the acquisition of a North Berwick hotel, marking the company’s first move into accommodation as part of its ongoing expansion plans.
The Nether Abbey Hotel, which first opened its doors in 1957 and has been run by the Stewart family for more than 60 years, sits within a late nineteenth-century building and has long been known locally as a welcoming, high-quality destination for visitors, golfers and the community alike.
With the handover set for mid-January, the hotel will close its doors to allow Buzzworks to begin preparations for a major seven figure redevelopment. The project will transform the site into one of the company’s signature House Collection venues, centred around a modern pub and vibrant restaurant, alongside 12 beautifully designed bedrooms and enhanced guest facilities.
The acquisition builds on Buzzworks’ strong presence in East Lothian, where the company already operates some of the region’s most popular venues, including Herringbone North Berwick and Lido Musselburgh, alongside Thirty Knots and Scotts Port Edgar in South Queensferry, Edinburgh. The addition of accommodation represents the next step in delivering the high-quality hospitality experiences Buzzworks is known for.
A key element of the redevelopment will be the creation of a vibrant pub and restaurant at the heart of the venue, which is an integral part of the Buzzworks experience. With planning expected this winter and construction due to begin in spring, the venue is scheduled to reopen in late 2026.
As part of the acquisition, all current hotel team members from The Nether Abbey will be retained by Buzzworks, with roles being offered across its existing venues during the major renovation works.
The BCorp company, which has recently been ranked on the UK’s Best Companies to Work for list for the tenth time, also confirmed plans to increase the number of hospitality jobs in the local area once the new venue opens, creating between 25 to 45 additional roles across front of house, kitchen, housekeeping and management.
Kenny Blair, Managing Director at Buzzworks, said: “North Berwick is one of Scotland’s special coastal towns, and an outstanding location for our first move into accommodation. This hotel has been an important part of the community for decades, and we are committed to honouring that legacy while bringing a fresh, modern Buzzworks experience to both locals and visitors alike.
“A central part of our vision is to build buzzing pubs and restaurants that people love, and the atmosphere of staying above one of Scotland’s most loved hospitality venues is something genuinely unique.
“This acquisition is just the start of our journey into accommodation, and it supports our long-term aim to become Scotland’s most loved hospitality business, and we are excited to take this next step.”
Stirling and Jela Stewart, from The Nether Abbey Hotel, said: “After more than 60 wonderful years in our family, we are incredibly proud of the legacy of The Nether Abbey Hotel and the role it has played in the North Berwick community.
“Buzzworks shares our family values of providing quality, service and community spirit, and we’re confident the hotel is in excellent hands as it begins its next chapter.”
The redesigned venue will blend aspirational, yet timeless interiors led by designer Jim Hamilton, with elements including a feature fire, open kitchen pass, modern pub, restaurant, and an updated terrace, alongside four bespoke room categories.
Buzzworks currently operates 22 award-winning bars and restaurants across Scotland and was recently crowned Best Managed Pub Company in the UK (under 51 sites) at The Publican Awards.
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