Marking its second rural property venture following the purchase of Pine Trees in July 2023, the move adds to the group’s existing UK-wide portfolio, now totalling 10 hotels.

Meldrum House is a 51-bedroom 4-star country house hotel comprising of a 13th century manor house and golf course, set in 250 acres of Aberdeenshire countryside. Privately owned by Aberdeenshire businessmen Bob Edwards, Terry and David Buchan, the hotel has won a range of prestigious awards including The Times’ Top 100 UK Hotels and Best Hotel at Visit Scotland’s Scottish Thistle Awards.

The purchase of Meldrum House continues Apex Hotels’ strategy to grow and diversify its portfolio with new hotels in rural locations. The acquisition follows a strong financial year for the group, supported by a £60 million refinancing package with Barclays.

Apex Hotels chief executive officer Angela Vickers said: “The acquisition of Meldrum House Country Hotel represents an opportunity to continue to diversify the Apex Hotels portfolio, giving our guests even more choice of a city or more relaxed rural option.

“This is an exciting time for Apex, and after getting to know the team at Meldrum House, it was clear they share the same vision and ambitions we have at Apex Hotels.

“Meldrum House will be one of our flagship hotels and we are delighted to be the next custodians of this historic property.”

Mr Edwards added: “After 31 years of owning Meldrum House with David and Terry Buchan, it is the perfect time to hand over the reins for a new chapter, where the hotel and estate will become part of Apex Hotel’s expanding portfolio.

“As a family owned and run business, we are delighted that the Springford family have the same principles and passion for what we have created and together with Dave and Terry Buchan, I wish them the very best for the next 30 years of Meldrum.”

Jordan Charles will continue to lead the team at Meldrum House. He commented: “This is a great opportunity for our team to join the Apex Hotels group, and I look forward to helping them drive the business forward.”