A BUSINESS named the “best country pub” in Scotland is up for sale.
The multi-award-winning Horseshoe Inn, in Eddleston in the Borders, has been put on the market by its current owners who said they aimed to restore it to its “former glory before bowing out”.
Included in the sale of the pub are eight ensuite rooms in a “beautifully restored Victorian village schoolhouse”, and a two-bedroom managers cottage.
Iain and Fiona Dempster said of their decision to sell up: “We took over the Horseshoe Inn with the firm idea of restoring it to its former glory before bowing out of the trade in Scotland.
“We are looking to semi-retire, relocate and spend more time with their family.”
The pub is being listed by specialist business property adviser Christie and Co. It is on the market at a freehold asking price of £1.2 million.
The inn is four miles north of Peebles and a 30-minute drive south of Edinburgh.
The estate agents description says the property features “wooden beam ceilings, stone floors and traditional decor”.
It goes on: “The inn offers a welcoming and cosy atmosphere, which has been recognised with multiple awards, including an AA Rosette Award 2023.”
Among its other prizes, the Horseshoe Inn was named the best country pub in Scotland in the 2019 Scottish Entertainment and Hospitality Awards, the last time the category was open for competition.
It is currently listed as a finalist in the 2023 Scottish Entertainment and Hospitality Awards in the best gastropub category.
Simon Watson, the business agent at Christie and Co who is handling the sale, said: "I am delighted that Iain and Fiona have given us the opportunity to sell this iconic, award-winning village inn.
“Since the pandemic, the business has thrived and continues to grow year-on-year, making this a fantastic opportunity to acquire a profitable pub with rooms, in turnkey condition.
“The business will suit a variety of operators and offers great potential to develop the current letting rooms and the large plot of land it sits on, subject to the correct planning permissions."
