The former County Hotel in North Berwick is set for a major revival following a six-year closure, thanks to an £850,000 joint investment by Star Pubs and the Discovery Group who have eight hotels and pubs across the eastern side of Scotland’s Central Belt including four in Edinburgh. The Grade C-listed building on High Street will reopen this autumn under a new name, The Law, creating 25 jobs.
Work is now underway to transform the site into a family- and dog-friendly venue with two bars, a 100-cover rear garden, a restaurant with its own bar, a function space and 11 ensuite letting rooms. The back bar, set in a converted stable, will retain original stone and beam features and include a pizza oven. The front bar will feature exposed brick, decorative tiles and screens showing live sport.
Discovery Group directors Steven Winton and Jamie MacKinnon, who also run The Ship Inn nearby, will operate the venue. Winton said, “The town has been really supportive. We want to restore the building’s potential and create something that works for both locals and visitors.”
The Law’s courtyard garden will be one of the largest in the town, with permission granted for outdoor events and extended opening hours. Plans were revised to protect nesting birds, and operating conditions have been agreed to address local concerns around noise and smoking.
Star Pubs area manager for East Lothian Jeremy Williams said, “We’re delighted to be working with Steven and Jamie to reopen The County Hotel again after so long. They’ve got a reputation for outstanding food, drink and service and, with a successful pub in the town already, they understand what residents and North Berwick’s many visitors want. We’re giving the refurbishment the works; it’s a massive investment and The Law will look fantastic.”
The refurbishment of is part of Star Pubs’ £40m investment in upgrading pubs in 2025, which includes £4.5m earmarked for Scotland.
If you are interested to find out more about how Star Pubs can help you to open a venue with purpose, passion, and the right support, reach out to Star Pubs for more information Pubs to Let in Scotland | Star Pubs & Bars | HEINEKEN UK