A distinguished property in Pitlochry, once a celebrated hotel and more recently a private family residence, is poised to reclaim its place in Perthshire’s esteemed hospitality landscape. The former East Haugh Hotel has been acquired by Apex Hotels, an Edinburgh-based group with a growing presence in the region, and is set to reopen its doors as a luxurious, exclusive-use venue catering to private groups seeking an idyllic ‘home from home’ experience amidst the stunning Scottish Highlands.
This significant development marks a new era for the 17th-century estate, which had a remarkable run as a hotel for over three decades before its conversion into a family dwelling in 2022. Its return to commercial hospitality follows a successful application to Perth and Kinross Council, which swiftly granted approval for the change of use. Local planners noted the property’s impressive track record, highlighting its successful operation as a hotel since the late 1980s without any reported issues or disruptions to the local community. This history provided a strong foundation for confidence in its renewed purpose.
Apex Hotels, known for its portfolio of urban and leisure properties across the UK, including a prominent spa hotel in Dundee, signals its continued investment in Perthshire tourism with this acquisition. The East Haugh property is envisioned as a complementary offering to the Pine Trees Hotel in Pitlochry, which Apex also welcomed into its collection last year. This strategic move strengthens the group’s presence in one of Scotland’s most beloved tourist destinations, building on Pitlochry’s reputation for scenic beauty, outdoor pursuits, and quality accommodation.
The meticulous preservation of the property by its previous owners means that the transition back to a hotel will not require extensive physical modifications. The estate still boasts all the essential infrastructure for a fully serviced hotel, including a commercial-grade kitchen equipped with professional extraction systems, dedicated public and staff restroom facilities, and changing areas. Each of the well-appointed guest bedrooms already features its own en-suite bathroom, ensuring immediate readiness for discerning visitors.
The main house offers a generously proportioned guests’ lounge and a dedicated dining room, alongside eight individual guest bedrooms. Complementing this, an annexe provides an additional five guest bedrooms, expanding the accommodation options. A notable addition to the exclusive-use offering will be the transformation of the coach house into a charming three-bedroom private residence, perfect for smaller groups seeking a more intimate setting. Furthermore, the existing static caravan, previously used for staff accommodation, is slated for removal, as Apex Hotels has secured another local property to house its dedicated team, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to local integration and staff welfare.
Nestled conveniently just off the busy A9 road connecting Perth to Inverness, the East Haugh property benefits from its prime location near the heart of Pitlochry. Its historical roots are deeply embedded in the local fabric, having originally formed part of the vast Atholl Estate, a heritage that historically drew hunting parties and anglers to its grounds. This rich past imbues the hotel with a unique character, appealing to guests who appreciate both luxury and a connection to Scotland’s storied history.
The reopening of this landmark property as an exclusive, high-end venue is a significant boost for Pitlochry and the broader Perth and Kinross tourism sector. It caters to a growing market segment seeking privacy, bespoke service, and a truly immersive Scottish experience. This strategic move by Apex Hotels not only promises to uphold the property’s legacy of excellence but also contributes positively to the local economy by creating employment opportunities and attracting affluent visitors who will undoubtedly explore and support other local businesses, from charming boutiques to renowned restaurants, enhancing Pitlochry’s allure as a premier destination.
This significant development marks a new era for the 17th-century estate, which had a remarkable run as a hotel for over three decades before its conversion into a family dwelling in 2022. Its return to commercial hospitality follows a successful application to Perth and Kinross Council, which swiftly granted approval for the change of use. Local planners noted the property’s impressive track record, highlighting its successful operation as a hotel since the late 1980s without any reported issues or disruptions to the local community. This history provided a strong foundation for confidence in its renewed purpose.
Apex Hotels, known for its portfolio of urban and leisure properties across the UK, including a prominent spa hotel in Dundee, signals its continued investment in Perthshire tourism with this acquisition. The East Haugh property is envisioned as a complementary offering to the Pine Trees Hotel in Pitlochry, which Apex also welcomed into its collection last year. This strategic move strengthens the group’s presence in one of Scotland’s most beloved tourist destinations, building on Pitlochry’s reputation for scenic beauty, outdoor pursuits, and quality accommodation.
The meticulous preservation of the property by its previous owners means that the transition back to a hotel will not require extensive physical modifications. The estate still boasts all the essential infrastructure for a fully serviced hotel, including a commercial-grade kitchen equipped with professional extraction systems, dedicated public and staff restroom facilities, and changing areas. Each of the well-appointed guest bedrooms already features its own en-suite bathroom, ensuring immediate readiness for discerning visitors.
The main house offers a generously proportioned guests’ lounge and a dedicated dining room, alongside eight individual guest bedrooms. Complementing this, an annexe provides an additional five guest bedrooms, expanding the accommodation options. A notable addition to the exclusive-use offering will be the transformation of the coach house into a charming three-bedroom private residence, perfect for smaller groups seeking a more intimate setting. Furthermore, the existing static caravan, previously used for staff accommodation, is slated for removal, as Apex Hotels has secured another local property to house its dedicated team, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to local integration and staff welfare.
Nestled conveniently just off the busy A9 road connecting Perth to Inverness, the East Haugh property benefits from its prime location near the heart of Pitlochry. Its historical roots are deeply embedded in the local fabric, having originally formed part of the vast Atholl Estate, a heritage that historically drew hunting parties and anglers to its grounds. This rich past imbues the hotel with a unique character, appealing to guests who appreciate both luxury and a connection to Scotland’s storied history.
The reopening of this landmark property as an exclusive, high-end venue is a significant boost for Pitlochry and the broader Perth and Kinross tourism sector. It caters to a growing market segment seeking privacy, bespoke service, and a truly immersive Scottish experience. This strategic move by Apex Hotels not only promises to uphold the property’s legacy of excellence but also contributes positively to the local economy by creating employment opportunities and attracting affluent visitors who will undoubtedly explore and support other local businesses, from charming boutiques to renowned restaurants, enhancing Pitlochry’s allure as a premier destination.