£3m deal saves historic George Hotel in Inveraray

Begbies Traynor has overseen a £3.05m deal to rescue The George Hotel, a historic 24-room boutique Scottish hotel in Inveraray on the western shore of Loch Fyne, preserving 43 full and part-time jobs in the process.

Administrators have sold the hotel business, its contents and a residential dwelling to a duo of experienced hotel operators, Charlie Maclachlan and Sam Wignell of Fyne Hospitality.

Kevin Mapstone and Kenny Craig of Begbies Traynor were appointed as joint administrators of the Inveraray Inn Ltd, which trades as the George Hotel, on 28 March this year.

Thomas McKay, Partner at Begbies Traynor, supervised operations at the hotel, trading the business during Administration, whilst a buyer was sought to save the award-winning venue.

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, said:

“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.”

Thomas McKay, Partner at Begbies Traynor, said:

“Both Charlie and Sam saved a seventh-generation business, a 165-year-old family hotel business 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.’

“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.”

“We, at Begbies Traynor, can provide confidential, honest financial assistance, to any hotel business in financial distress. Business owners can help to alleviate financial challenges by taking restructuring advice as early as possible. This provides options, and through having a plan, we can assist to save the business and protect local jobs.”