Buzzworks expands into accommodation with acquisition of Troon’s South Beach Hotel

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Award-winning Scottish hospitality operator Buzzworks has announced the acquisition of The South Beach Hotel in Troon, marking a significant step in its expansion into accommodation.

Situated close to Troon’s beachfront and less than a mile from Royal Troon Golf Club, The South Beach Hotel has been a cornerstone of the town’s hospitality scene for more than a century, welcoming generations of residents, visitors and golfers to Ayrshire.

For over 45 years, the hotel has been owned and operated by the Watt family, becoming a well-established and much-loved part of the local community. The business will continue to operate under its current ownership until October, before temporarily closing its doors for an extensive refurbishment.

Following a major seven-figure redevelopment, the hotel will join Buzzworks’ growing House Collection. The concept combines timeless, stylish and comfortable bedrooms with a welcoming pub and restaurant at its heart, creating a destination where guests can eat, drink and stay. The redevelopment aims to build on the hotel’s long-standing reputation while introducing a fresh, contemporary offer.

The move further strengthens Buzzworks’ presence in Troon, where its venues Scotts, Lido and The Fox are already firm favourites among locals and visitors. The addition of The South Beach Hotel introduces accommodation to its offering in the town for the first time, allowing guests to experience the group’s hospitality under one roof.

Designed to appeal to staycationers, golf travellers, families and business guests, the reimagined venue will offer premium steaks, comforting classics, proper pints and contemporary bedrooms, all delivered with the group’s signature warm and relaxed service.

The refurbishment will see a complete transformation of the pub, restaurant and guest spaces, balancing a vibrant, modern feel with the character and charm that have made the hotel a longstanding fixture in Troon. The project will be led by acclaimed designer Jim Hamilton, drawing on the building’s rich history and coastal setting while incorporating Buzzworks’ focus on quality craftsmanship and timeless design.

When Buzzworks officially takes over in October, the existing team will join the company, which is B Corp certified and has been recognised as one of the UK’s Best Companies to Work For for ten consecutive years. Staff will be offered roles across nearby Buzzworks venues during the refurbishment, with access to training, development and career progression, before having the opportunity to return when the hotel reopens.

Kenny Blair, CEO at Buzzworks, said: “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.”

Stewart Watt added: “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.”