Inverary George Hotel dating back 160 years saved from collapse in £3m rescue deal

A 160-year-old hotel in Argyll and Bute has been saved from administration, with over 40 jobs preserved.

The Inveraray George Hotel said it was searching for a new owner in April after “crippling” historic debts caused it to fall into administration.

The 24-bedroom hotel continued to operate as normal while the search for a new owner began.

The hotel has been sold to Charlie Maclachlan and Sam Wignell of Fyne Hospitality for £3.5m in a deal that will save up to 43 jobs in Inveraray.

Co-owner Charlie Maclachlan 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.”

Business partner Sam Wignell 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.”

Kevin Mapstone and Kenny Craig of Begbies Traynor were appointed joint administrators of Inveraray Inn Ltd in March this year.

Thomas McKay, partner at Begbies Traynor, said: “Our team successfully traded the hotel business, whilst our appointed agents delivered a marketing campaign which generated 51 interested parties across the UK in recent months.

“After considerable negotiation, Fyne Hospitality were the successful bid and progressed swiftly through the due diligence phase, demonstrating their ability to complete the transaction within the required timescales.

“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.”

He added: “Both Charlie and Sam saved a seventh-generation business, a 165-year-old family hotel that is a major contributor to the local and regional economy and we are confident they will enjoy great success in the future.

“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.’’