Scottish operator Buzzworks acquires first pub with rooms

Scottish hospitality operator Buzzwords has acquired the Bonnie Badger pub, restaurant and rooms in East Lothian.

The pub, originally built in 1836, is situated in the village of Gullane and was relaunched in 2018 by chef Tom Kitchin and Michaela Kitchin.

The property has 12 bedrooms and a master suite, alongside a spacious restaurant and bar.

The pub will continue operating throughout the summer before closing later in the year for refurbishment by designer Jim Hamilton. It is set to reopen in spring 2027.

The acquisition further strengthens Buzzworks’ growing presence in East Lothian, where it already operates two pubs: the Herringbone in North Berwick and the Lido in Musselburgh.

The purchase further cements the operator’s move into accommodation following the acquisition of the nearby Nether Abbey hotel in North Berwick, which is undergoing redevelopment and set to reopen later this year.

Buzzworks is a B Corp-certified business that operates 22 venues across east, west and central Scotland and employs more than 800 staff.

Kenny Blair, chief executive of Buzzworks, said: “The Bonnie Badger is a fantastic venue, with an excellent reputation and a real connection to the Gullane community. It’s clear how much care has gone into making it what it is today, and we’re excited to build on that as we take it into its next chapter.

“As we continue to move into accommodation, we see a real opportunity to bring our vision for modern hospitality to the Bonnie Badger. We’re also pleased to welcome the existing team into Buzzworks and look forward to working with them as we take the venue forward.

“East Lothian is one of Scotland’s great destinations and an area we’re proud to keep investing in. With the Bonnie Badger joining our existing venues in the region, alongside the redevelopment of the Nether Abbey hotel, this is another exciting step for Buzzworks.”

Tom Kitchin said: “We are incredibly proud of what the Bonnie Badger has become since we took over in 2018. It has been a very special project for us as a family, rooted in the local neighbourhood and built with a fantastic team, who has helped us create a welcoming, special, high-end destination in East Lothian.

“As we look to the future, we believe Buzzworks is the right fit to take the Bonnie Badger on to its next chapter. Their strong track record, shared values around hospitality and commitment to both people and place give us great confidence in what lies ahead.

“We would like to thank our brilliant team and our loyal guests for their continued support over the years. We look forward to seeing the Bonnie Badger continue to thrive under Buzzworks’ vision and management.”