Buzzworks agrees a deal for Perth's Royal George Hotel, its first move into Perthshire

Scottish operator Buzzworks has concluded missives to acquire The Royal George Hotel in Perth, SLTN reports. It is the group's first move into Perthshire and another step in its expansion into accommodation.

The hotel, close to Perth Bridge and overlooking the River Tay, has been part of the city's hospitality scene for more than 250 years. Completion is expected in January 2027, and planning proposals are set to be submitted. Until then it trades as normal under its current owner.

After completion it will close for a major refurbishment and is expected to reopen later in 2027 as part of Buzzworks' House Collection: bedrooms with a pub and restaurant at the heart. The plans, led by designer Jim Hamilton, rework the restaurant, bedrooms and guest spaces, add a new pub and upgrade the historic ballroom. Buzzworks is pitching it at golf breaks, couples, families and business travel.

The existing team will be offered opportunities in the wider Buzzworks business during the closure. Owner Eddie Anderson, who has run the hotel for more than 26 years, called the sale bittersweet.

What it means for operators: Buzzworks is using rooms to grow, and a heritage hotel with a ballroom adds events income to the mix. A long refurbishment also carries a people risk: offering the current team roles elsewhere in the group is a practical way to keep skilled staff through the gap.