The George Hotel in Inveraray has been acquired out of administration in a £3.05 million deal that secures the future of the historic business and safeguards 43 jobs.
The 24-bedroom hotel, which had been in the Clark family for 165 years, was sold to Fyne Hospitality, led by Charlie Maclachlan and Sam Wignell, following a marketing campaign which attracted 51 expressions of interest.
The business, along with its contents and an adjacent residential property, was sold by joint administrators Kevin Mapstone and Kenny Craig of Begbies Traynor. The company that operated the hotel, Inveraray Inn Limited, went into administration in March this year due to historic debt.
Begbies Traynor partner Thomas McKay, who managed the hotel’s operations during the administration process, said, “This deal opens a new chapter for the George Hotel as a historic venue, providing the best possible outcome in challenging circumstances and saving all jobs in the process.”
He continued, “Both Charlie and Sam have saved a seventh-generation business, a 165-year-old family hotel that is a major contributor to the local and regional economy.”
McKay added, “We want to thank the Clark family, who owned the hotel for seven generations, for their integrity throughout and their contribution not only to Inveraray, but their openness and help with a challenging trading and sale process. We are also grateful to the customers and local community for their fantastic support and their loyalty to the venue over the last few months, and of course to the George Hotel staff for their ongoing hard work during the process of administration and the uncertainty that brings.”
The hotel had originally gone on the market in August 2024, marking the first time it had been offered for sale in its history. The Grade A-listed Georgian property has long been regarded as one of Scotland’s most well-known and well-loved hospitality venues. The hotel features 17 bedrooms in the main building, eight further bedrooms in an adjoining townhouse, a pub, cocktail bar, restaurant and a 2 AA Rosette-rated dining room.
Charlie Maclachlan, co-owner of The George Hotel, said, “The George Hotel is more than just a building, it’s the beating heart of Inveraray, steeped in character and beloved by locals and visitors alike. With deep personal ties to the area and decades of combined experience in hospitality, we’re incredibly proud to take stewardship of this iconic institution.”
Sam Wignell, co-owner of The George Hotel, added, “Our vision is simple. Preserve the heritage, elevate the experience, and ensure The George remains a celebrated destination for generations to come. From its award-winning food, and vibrant pub atmosphere to its historic rooms and unbeatable setting on Loch Fyne, The George has all the ingredients of a world-class hotel.”
McKay said that while the deal represents a successful outcome, it also reflects the ongoing financial pressure faced by operators. “The hotel and hospitality industry has experienced a turbulent few years and continues to face uncertainty. High costs for trading, goods and services make it difficult to achieve profitability and meet creditor commitments. We continue to encourage owners to take restructuring advice as early as possible.”
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