Aberdeen’s historic city centre pub, The Old Kings Highway, has announced a significant reversal of its earlier decision to cease trading. Owners confirmed that an “11th hour multi-year deal” has been secured, ensuring the continued operation of the decades-old establishment located on The Green.
The announcement brings welcome news for patrons of the Granite City establishment, which had informed the public of its impending closure earlier this month. The pub, a fixture of Aberdeen dating back to the 1700s, will now undergo a refresh of its main bar and its function suite, The Nordic Bar, before reopening to the public.
Granite Group, which took over the management of The Old Kings Highway in 2025 (formerly operating as Blinding Pub Group), will continue to steer the venue. The company revealed plans to introduce a new kitchen facility, acquired last year, to enable the pub to serve hot food. This move aims to enhance the customer experience following the recent uncertainties.
In an update shared via social media, the pub’s owners conveyed their delight: “Share the word… Granite Group stays and will continue to trade The Old Kings Highway. After a rollercoaster month and some sad times for business in Aberdeen at the 11th hour we are delighted to have agreed a favourable Multi Year Deal for Granite Group to continue trading OKH.”
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The statement further detailed the immediate plans for the venue: “We will take some time to freshen up both bars and install the kitchen we purchased last year in order for us to serve hot food. We will re-open on Friday, February 27.” Additionally, The Nordic Bar is slated to be available for functions, and development will commence on “The Granite Collection” – a new serviced accommodation offering situated above the pub.
The team expressed enthusiasm for the future, stating: “The team are excited to have created solid foundations and we look forward to welcoming you back at the end of the month.” For those interested in function enquiries, an email address was provided: hello@granitegroup.uk.
This positive development follows earlier challenges faced by the pub, with owner John Wemyss having previously attributed a downturn in customer footfall to ongoing roadworks on nearby Union Street. Prior to the recent events, The Old Kings Highway had also undergone a five-figure refurbishment approximately nine months ago, transforming it into an “antique bar with a modern twist”.
