Iconic Douglas Hotel joins the Buzzworks fold
One of Arran’s most iconic island hotels, the Douglas Hotel in Brodick, is set to change hands within the next few weeks after being purchased by hospitality operator Buzzworks.
Subject to completion in mid-July, the Douglas will continue to welcome guests throughout the summer before temporarily closing in Autumn/Winter for a major seven figure redevelopment.
The Douglas will join Buzzworks’ signature house collection portfolio that includes Mill House in Stewarton, Corner House in Kilwinning, Long House in Kilmarnock, Coach House in Bridge of Weir, and Nether Abbey Hotel in North Berwick.
Buzzworks already has an established presence along the Ayrshire coast and currently operates 23 establishments across East, West, and Central Scotland.
The refurbishment of the Douglas Hotel, led by designer Jim Hamilton, will “celebrate the building’s heritage while introducing Buzzworks’ signature approach to hospitality, with a focus on timeless design, quality craftsmanship and creating welcoming spaces that reflect the character of Arran.”
Kenny Blair, CEO at Buzzworks, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be welcoming the Douglas into Buzzworks. This is an iconic hotel with a fantastic reputation, and we are proud to be taking this special place forward and building on its legacy.
“This investment allows us to build on what the Douglas already offers whether guests are coming in for a casual drink or a bite to eat, enjoying a meal in the restaurant, or settling in for a comfortable and stylish overnight stay.
“We know how much this hotel means to the island, and we’re keen to honour what’s already here while bringing our own passion for great hospitality to it — creating a place that visitors love and that the people of Arran can enjoy and call their own for many years to come”.
As part of the acquisition, the existing team at the Douglas will join the wider Buzzworks business, with the company saying that it is fully committed to supporting all team members throughout the transition.
When the hotel reopens in spring 2027, staff will have access to Buzzworks programme of training, development and career progression.
Kate Russell, general manager at the Douglas Hotel, said: "We are incredibly proud of what the Douglas has become and the role it has played in welcoming both island residents and visitors to Arran over the years.
"It has been a privilege to care for such an iconic hotel, and we’d like to thank our guests, our dedicated team and the local community for the incredible support they have shown throughout that time.
"As we look to the future, we believe Buzzworks is the right fit to take the Douglas into its next chapter. The business’ passion for hospitality, respect for the heritage of their venues and commitment to the communities they serve gives us great confidence that the hotel has an exciting future ahead."
Buzzworks has been recognised as one of the UK’s Best Companies to Work For for 10 consecutive years and was named Best Managed Pub Company (under 51 sites) at the 2025 Publican Awards.
Further information about Buzzworks, its venues and its core aims and values, can be found at www.buzzworksholdings.com
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