– Acclaimed Gullane destination joins growing House Collection portfolio –
Award-winning Scottish hospitality operator Buzzworks has announced the acquisition of The Bonnie Badger pub, restaurant and rooms in East Lothian.
Situated in the village of Gullane, the purchase marks the next step in the company’s exciting expansion into accommodation as part of its ongoing growth plans.
Originally built in 1836, The Bonnie Badger has long played a central role in the Gullane community, welcoming visitors drawn to the area’s world-renowned golf courses, including nearby Muirfield. Relaunched in 2018 by chef Tom Kitchin and Michaela Kitchin, it has since established itself as one of East Lothian’s most respected hospitality destinations.
Buzzworks will build on these foundations, bringing its signature House Collection concept to the venue. Centred around a modern, buzzing pub and vibrant restaurant experience alongside high-quality accommodation, the aim is to elevate the guest experience while staying true to the character and reputation that has made The Bonnie Badger so highly regarded.
The acquisition further strengthens Buzzworks’ growing presence in East Lothian, where the company already operates some of the region’s most popular venues, including Herringbone North Berwick and Lido Musselburgh. It also builds on the group’s recent expansion into accommodation, with the nearby Nether Abbey Hotel in North Berwick currently undergoing redevelopment and set to reopen later this year.
Together, these sites reflect Buzzworks’ long-term commitment to investing in the area and creating standout hospitality experiences for both locals and visitors alike.
The property currently features 12 individually designed bedrooms and a master suite, alongside a spacious restaurant and bar.
It will continue operating throughout the summer, before closing later in the year during Autumn/Winter for refurbishment.
With the venue set to reopen in spring 2027, works will be delivered in collaboration with designer Jim Hamilton, with a focus on subtle enhancements to the guest rooms and dining and bar spaces, building on the quality and character that already define The Bonnie Badger.
Importantly, Buzzworks will welcome the existing team members at The Bonnie Badger into the business. This reflects the company’s commitment to supporting jobs within the local community, while providing team members with enhanced training, development and career progression opportunities through Buzzworks’ award-winning people programmes.
Kenny Blair, CEO at Buzzworks, said: “The Bonnie Badger is a fantastic venue, with an excellent reputation and a real connection to the Gullane community. It’s clear how much care has gone into making it what it is today, and we’re excited to build on that as we take it into its next chapter.
“As we continue to move into accommodation, we see a real opportunity to bring our vision for modern hospitality to the Bonnie Badger. We’re also pleased to welcome the existing team into Buzzworks and look forward to working with them as we take the venue forward.
“East Lothian is one of Scotland’s great destinations, and an area we’re proud to keep investing in. With the Bonnie Badger joining our existing venues in the region, alongside the redevelopment of the Nether Abbey Hotel, this is another exciting step for Buzzworks.”
Chef Owner Tom Kitchin said: “We are incredibly proud of what The Bonnie Badger has become since we took over in 2018. It has been a very special project for us as a family, rooted in the local neighbourhood and built with a fantastic team who has helped us create a welcoming, special, high-end destination in East Lothian.
“As we look to the future, we believe Buzzworks is the right fit to take The Bonnie Badger on to its next chapter. Their strong track record, shared values around hospitality, and commitment to both people and place give us great confidence in what lies ahead.
“We would like to thank our brilliant team and our loyal guests for their continued support over the years. We look forward to seeing The Bonnie Badger continue to thrive under Buzzworks’ vision and management.”
Michaela Kitchin, Executive Director and co-owner, added: “The Bonnie Badger has been incredibly close to our hearts and to our family from day one. Our focus has been on creating a place that feels warm, welcoming, and truly part of the Gullane community. We are so grateful to our team and guests who have supported us on that journey.
“We are delighted to be handing it over to a team that shares our passion for hospitality and people, and we look forward to seeing it continue to flourish in the years ahead.”
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Buzzworks is a B Corp certified business and has been recognised as one of the UK’s Best Companies to Work For for ten consecutive years. The group currently operates 22 award-winning venues across Scotland and was recently named Best Managed Pub Company (under 51 sites) at The Publican Awards.
For more information on Buzzworks please visit www.buzzworksholdings.com
