The Bass & Barrel Opens Its Doors Following A Transformation

Award-winning Scottish hospitality operator Buzzworks has officially opened the doors to The Bass & Barrel in North Berwick, following a major seven-figure transformation of the former Nether Abbey Hotel.

Newly opened, the new pub and restaurant marks an exciting new chapter for the well-known East Lothian property, bringing a fresh identity to the former hotel while creating a welcoming destination for locals and visitors.

Designed first and foremost as a neighbourhood pub and restaurant for the North Berwick community, The Bass & Barrel will be open seven days a week, offering somewhere to eat, drink and socialise from early until late.

Whether popping in for a morning coffee and breakfast, enjoying some casual family dining, meeting friends for a pint or celebrating a special occasion, guests are welcome to drop in throughout the day.

Alongside its welcoming pub and restaurant, The Bass & Barrel offers 12 stylish bedrooms, perfect for a coastal getaway or a longer break exploring East Lothian, with overnight guests able to enjoy the venue's food and drink offering alongside its boutique accommodation.

Behind the bar, guests can enjoy draught beers and local ales alongside a selection of wines, spirits and classic and signature cocktails.

The venue's all-day dining offering celebrates quality Scottish produce and coastal flavours, with fresh seafood, prime Scotch steaks and much-loved pub classics at the heart of the menu.

Working with trusted suppliers including Edgefield Craft Butchers, whose owner is from North Berwick, the kitchen showcases quality ingredients, with highlights including Grilled Scottish Langoustines and seasonal lobster, premium fish and chips and a signature four-person sharing Sunday roast served with all the trimmings.

Kenny Blair, CEO of Buzzworks, said:

“We’re absolutely delighted to finally open the doors to The Bass & Barrel and welcome the North Berwick community into the new venue."

“A huge amount of work has gone into transforming the former Nether Abbey Hotel, and we’re incredibly proud to bring it into a new chapter. We wanted to create somewhere that feels like a proper local, with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where people can come together, feel at home and enjoy spending time."

“We can’t wait for everyone to come in, experience The Bass & Barrel for themselves and hopefully make it a place they’ll return to time and time again.”

Part of Buzzworks’ growing House Collection, The Bass & Barrel has been designed by internationally acclaimed designer Jim Hamilton, combining relaxed hospitality with timeless, stylish accommodation.

Buzzworks is a B Corp-certified business and has been recognised as one of the UK’s Best Companies to Work For for ten consecutive years. The group currently operates 25 award-winning bars and restaurants across Scotland and was named Best Managed Pub Company in the UK under 51 sites at the 2025 Publican Awards.