An historic eighteenth century pub in South Ayrshire has re-opened its doors to serve the community once again.
Ballantrae’s beloved Kings Arms - the last survivor of three pubs in the village - has reopened after it was forced to close in October last year due to spiralling energy costs and cost of living increases.
After being purchased for the community by the Ballantrae Trust with support from the Scottish Land Fund in September 2020, it initially operated from April 2021 until October 2022 before shutting up shop.
The management committee have shared their delight at the pub reopening to residents and visitors once again.
Martin McCourt, a member of the management committee, said: “The previous owners had wanted to sell for some time but sadly there had been no serious expressions of interest.
“We could not envisage losing the last pub in the village – so we knew something had to be done. We were delighted to have saved the King’s Arms for the community.
“We tried to stay open for as long as we could because after Covid the Community Pub and Hub was needed more than ever.
“But in October of last year we decided to close, reflect on what we had learned during the first year of ownership, and tackle some further upgrading during the winter months.”
Funding from Carrick Futures and the Ballantrae Community Benefit Funds allowed the committee to upgrade the toilets, bar, lounge and restaurant areas, as well as external work on the roof, drains, guttering and outdoor space.
The pub is open for drinks only at the moment but Martin said future plans will also include "offering food and overnight accommodation in time.”
He added: “Our new committee has ambitious plans to replace the antiquated heating system, upgrade the kitchen and storage areas, before we turn our attention to repainting the building, resurfacing the car park and upgrading the bedrooms and the manager’s flat upstairs to ensure they are fit for purpose.
“The Kings Arms is more than a pub. The Community Hub part of the operation is very important. It is a place for locals and visitors to meet and mix, for family celebrations, and for local groups to use.
“We also host a local Visitor Information Point. People using the Community Hall or visiting the local Scotmid shop - both of which are literally just a few steps away - can now use our car park.
“Along with the hall, the shop, the garage (with 24hr fuel) and the Medical Centre, the Kings Arms Community Pub and Hub really is a key component at the heart of our village.
“We are very aware that we are just the custodians. We had to do everything we could to save the Kings Arms for future generations and we know that all the hard work will be worth it.”
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