Scottish hospitality operator Buzzworks has acquired the Nether Abbey Hotel in North Berwick, marking the company’s first move into accommodation as part of its expansion plans.
The hotel, which has been run by the Stewart family for more than 60 years, will be taken over in mid-January and will close to allow for a major refurbishment.
Buzzworks has plans for a seven-figure redevelopment of the late 19th Century building, which first opened as a hotel in 1957. The group said the project would convert the property into a venue within its House Collection, featuring a pub and restaurant alongside 12 bedrooms and upgraded guest facilities.
Planning is expected to be submitted this winter, with construction due to begin in spring and reopening scheduled for late 2026.
The acquisition strengthens Buzzworks’ presence in East Lothian, where it already operates venues including Herringbone North Berwick and Lido Musselburgh. Elsewhere, the company runs Thirty Knots and Scotts Port Edgar in South Queensferry.
Buzzworks said all existing staff at the Nether Abbey Hotel would be retained as part of the deal, with team members offered roles across the company’s other venues during the refurbishment period. Once opened, the redeveloped venue would create between 25 and 45 new jobs spanning front-of-house, kitchen, housekeeping and management roles.
Kenny Blair, managing director of 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.”
The former owners added: “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.”
