Scotland ‘s Mar Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa Resort welcomes new ownership

Monday, December 18, 2023

The historic Mar Hall Hotel, Golf, and Spa Resort, a renowned establishment in Scotland, has recently transitioned to new ownership. The Dutco Group from Dubai, with backing from the investment and asset management company Align Partners, has taken the helm of this prestigious property. Committed to its evolution, a substantial £15 million investment plan has been unveiled, aiming to elevate Mar Hall Hotel to a global standing, comparable to the likes of Cameron House and Gleneagles.

This new chapter for Mar Hall, nestled within the vast 240-acre Earl of Mar Estate in Bishopton near Glasgow, will see a visionary transformation. The resort, boasting a five-star hotel, a mature 18-hole championship golf course, and a spa, sits elegantly along the River Clyde, making it an idyllic venue for weddings. Its history stretches back to 1826, and it officially opened as a hotel in 2004. After nearly two decades, this marks its first change in ownership, during which time it has welcomed an array of celebrities including Beyonce, Harry Styles, Brad Pitt, Liam Gallagher, and Ed Sheeran.

The revitalization strategy put forth by Dutco Group and Align Partners involves working with leading architects and interior designers. The refurbishment, set to commence early in 2024, includes plans for new upscale woodland lodges, enhanced leisure and spa amenities, and an overhaul of the guestrooms and public areas. Operations will continue seamlessly under the new management, with all current bookings for weddings, leisure, and business events honored.

With a strong background in hospitality, Dutco Group’s portfolio includes JA branded luxury hotels in Dubai, the Maldives, Seychelles, and Marriot brand hotels in the United States. Align Partners joins this venture, bringing their expertise from successful refurbishments of prestigious properties such as The Morrison Dublin, Curio Collection by Hilton, Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa in Liverpool, and Powerscourt House & Gardens in Enniskerry, Ireland.

Nelson Gibb, Group CEO of Dutco Group, expressed his enthusiasm about their first Scottish hotel acquisition, highlighting their commitment to elevating Mar Hall Hotel through strategic and innovative investments. Chris King, Managing Director at Align Partners, emphasized the strong foundation of Mar Hall and their intention to restore its status as a top-tier 5-star hotel in Scotland.

Kris Aspin, Head of EY Scotland’s Turnaround and Restructuring team, shared their satisfaction in securing Mar Hall’s future, acknowledging the global interest it garnered and its potential within the Scottish hospitality sector. The Joint Administrators at EY received guidance from Savills and Addleshaw Goddard LLP, while Mar Hall Hospitality Ltd (a Dutco Group company) was counseled by Pinsent Masons.

Additionally, the resort’s close proximity, just 10 minutes from Glasgow International Airport, adds to its appeal as a convenient and luxurious destination.

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