Iconic Troon hotel enters 'new chapter'

A Scottish hospitality operator has expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of an “iconic” Ayrshire hotel.

Buzzworks has bought The South Beach Hotel in Troon, with plans to carry out a seven-figure refurbishment before adding the venue to its growing House Collection portfolio.

Located close to Troon’s beachfront and less than a mile from Royal Troon Golf Club, the hotel has welcomed guests for more than a century and has been owned by the Watt family for the past 45 years.

The hotel will continue trading under its current ownership until October, when Buzzworks will take over and temporarily close the property for redevelopment.

Stewart Watt, of South Beach Hotel, said: “For more than 45 years, our family has developed and improved The South Beach Hotel with our customers always in mind. 

“Now 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.

“We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported us over the years – our loyal customers, many of whom have become lifelong friends, and our wonderful team, past and present, who have shared the hard work, the laughter and the memories along the way.

“We feel incredibly proud of what we’ve built and are genuinely excited for what’s ahead. 

“We wish Buzzworks every success as they take The South Beach Hotel into its next chapter, and look forward to seeing it continue to thrive for years to come.”

The refurbishment will transform the hotel’s bedrooms, pub, restaurant and guest areas, while retaining features that reflect the building's history and coastal setting.

Once complete, the venue will offer accommodation alongside food and drink under the House Collection brand.

The acquisition marks Buzzworks’ first accommodation offering in Troon, where it already operates Scotts, Lido and The Fox.

As part of the deal, existing employees will transfer to Buzzworks when the takeover completes.

During the refurbishment, they will be offered roles across the group’s other Troon venues before having the opportunity to return when The South Beach Hotel reopens.

The acquisition continues Buzzworks’ expansion across Scotland, with the B Corp-certified business now operating 24 venues after being named Best Managed Pub Company (under 51 sites) at the 2025 Publican Awards.

Kenny Blair, chief executive at Buzzworks, added: “We’re delighted to be welcoming The South Beach Hotel into the Buzzworks family. 

“Troon is a very special place for us – we’re already proud to be part of the community here, and we’re excited to continue investing in the town and welcoming The South Beach into the House Collection.

“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.”

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