The future of one of Scotland’s most iconic inns has been secured following a £3.05 million rescue deal. The George Hotel in Inveraray, often referred to locally as the Loch Fyne Inn, has been saved from administration — safeguarding both its heritage and 43 local jobs.
A Historic Inn at Risk
Situated on the shores of Loch Fyne, the George Hotel is a 24-bedroom boutique inn set on a one-acre site. It has long been a favourite with visitors to Argyll and the Highlands, known for its character, roaring fires, and warm hospitality.
Earlier this year, however, the hotel’s future looked bleak. Inveraray Inn Ltd, which operated the venue, entered administration in March 2025 amid mounting financial pressures. Begbies Traynor was appointed to oversee the business, sparking fears that one of Scotland’s best-loved inns could be lost for good.
Strong Interest, Fierce Bidding
The administrators launched a marketing campaign that drew expressions of interest from more than 50 parties. For a time, the future of the George Hotel hung in the balance, with potential buyers ranging from national operators to private investors.
In the end, the successful bid came from local hospitality duo Charlie Maclachlan and Sam Wignell, trading as Fyne Hospitality. Their £3.05m offer was accepted, securing the site and ensuring its survival.
New Owners, Fresh Vision
Both Maclachlan and Wignell are no strangers to the Scottish hospitality scene, and their commitment to the George Hotel is rooted in passion for the area.
“The George Hotel is more than just a building — it’s the beating heart of Inveraray,” said Maclachlan.
“Our vision is simple: preserve its character, protect its people, and elevate the experience for everyone who walks through its doors.”
Their immediate priority has been to protect the jobs of all 43 staff, while plans are being made for sympathetic investment to enhance the guest and dining experience without losing the venue’s historic charm.
Why This Matters
The save of the George Hotel is more than a business deal — it’s a victory for community, heritage, and pub culture. Inns like this are woven into the social fabric of towns and villages across the UK. They are where stories are told, families gather, and traditions endure.
Losing the George Hotel would have been a devastating blow for Inveraray. Instead, its rescue offers hope and a reminder of the importance of protecting the country’s historic pubs and inns.
Pub Social Takeaway
The George Hotel’s survival is a reminder that pubs and inns are more than bricks and mortar. They are living landmarks that carry history and bring people together.
As one of Scotland’s best-loved inns embarks on its next chapter, it’s time to raise a glass to its future — and to all those working to keep our historic pubs alive.
