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Dunfermline’s Pitbauchlie House Hotel has been sold by Solley Hotels to Smar Hotels Ltd, an expanding Scottish hotel operator.The 53-bedroom hotel with a range of public areas was sold in an off-market deal for an undisclosed price.
Located just off one of the main roads near to Dunfermline, the hotel features several food and beverage areas as well as four flexible function rooms. The property, which is close to the centre of Dunfermline, sits in around 2.5 acres of grounds with “ample” car parking space.
The hotel, which has been trading under the Best Western brand, is also popular with business guests due to the number of corporations located nearby.
Sam Surani, of Smar Hotels Ltd, said: “We are thrilled to add the Pitbauchlie House Hotel to the Smar Hotels portfolio. Its prominent location, just under 30 minutes from Edinburgh airport, and excellent facilities, including the food and beverage areas and flexible function rooms, make it a valuable addition for both leisure and business travellers. The hotel’s close proximity to major corporations and Dunfermline’s rich history align with our goal of offering unique experiences while catering to a diverse clientele.
“This acquisition continues our strategic expansion following recent sales, allowing us to focus on building a strong presence in key locations across Scotland. We look forward to investing in the property and working with the talented team at Pitbauchlie House to enhance its offerings while maintaining the charm and service that guests have come to love.”
Julian Troup, head of Hotels Agency at Colliers, who handled the sale, said: “We’re pleased to have managed the confidential sale of another outstanding Scottish hotel asset. The Pitbauchlie House Hotel generated interest from buyers based in Scotland and further afield as it’s a very well-known hotel and hospitality business in the region. It is an excellent purchase for Smar Hotels Limited as their operation in Scotland grows.”
Edinburgh-headquartered legal firm Lindsays advised Solley Hotels on the deal.
Alastair Smith, a director in Lindsays’ Corporate team, said: “The Solleys have a hard-earned reputation for good, well-run hotels, as has been reflected in the interest seen in acquiring them. It has been a pleasure for us to advise the family in all three sales. The acquisition of Pitbauchlie House is another example of not just the resilience of Scotland’s independent hotel market, but the interest there is in investing in it when good opportunities emerge.”
