A landmark Perth hotel overlooking the River Tay is set for a major transformation after being acquired by one of Scotland’s best-known hospitality groups.
Buzzworks has announced plans to take over The Royal George Hotel, marking the company’s first move into Perthshire.
The historic hotel, close to Perth Bridge, has been part of the city’s hospitality scene for more than 250 years.
Missives for the acquisition have now concluded, with the deal expected to be completed in January 2027.
The Royal George will continue operating under its current owners until then before temporarily closing for what Buzzworks describes as a major seven-figure redevelopment.
The hotel is expected to reopen later in 2027 as part of the company’s House Collection.
Plans include the refurbishment of bedrooms, restaurant and guest areas, alongside the creation of a new pub and improvements to the hotel’s historic ballroom.
Designer Jim Hamilton, whose work includes hospitality projects across the UK and internationally, has been appointed to lead the transformation.
Buzzworks said the redevelopment would aim to retain the character and heritage of the building while creating a modern destination where guests can eat, drink and stay.
The deal represents another significant expansion for the family-founded Scottish hospitality company, which operates venues including Scotts, Lido and Herringbone.
Buzzworks has increasingly been moving into the accommodation market alongside its established portfolio of bars and restaurants.
Chief executive Kenny Blair said: “The Royal George Hotel has an incredible history, and we’re delighted to have the opportunity to welcome such a well-known Perth landmark into the Buzzworks family.
“Hospitality has been at the heart of this site for more than 250 years, with its prominent position overlooking the River Tay and long-standing role within the city’s hospitality scene making it a very special venue.
“There is so much about The Royal George that we want to celebrate and build upon.”
He added: “This also marks an exciting milestone for us as our first move into Perthshire.
“We’re looking forward to becoming part of the local community, building on the hotel’s fantastic legacy and creating something that Perth can be proud of for many years to come.”
Buzzworks said it would support existing staff during the transition, including offering opportunities elsewhere within the company while the refurbishment takes place.
Further jobs are also expected to be created when the hotel reopens.
Current owner Eddie Anderson is stepping away after more than 26 years at The Royal George and more than 45 years working in Perth’s hotel industry.
He said: “After more than 26 years at The Royal George, it’s a bittersweet moment for us.
“Having celebrated my 80th birthday recently, I realise nothing can last forever, and January will bring to a close more than 45 years for me in the hotel industry here in Perth.”
He added that he was pleased Buzzworks would be taking the hotel into its next chapter.
“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved here and excited to see what the future holds for The Royal George,” he said.
“I’ll certainly be popping back in once the transformation is complete.”
The Royal George acquisition follows Buzzworks’ move into hotel accommodation in North Berwick, where it acquired the former Nether Abbey Hotel before carrying out another seven-figure redevelopment.
The Perth project will further expand the group’s growing hospitality footprint across Scotland, with detailed planning proposals for The Royal George expected to be submitted ahead of the refurbishment.