Company of Scotland’s Wealthiest Individual Acquires Historic Loch Ness Pub

A company under the ownership of Scotland’s wealthiest individual, Danish billionaire Anders Holch Polvsen, has completed the acquisition of a historic pub situated on Loch Ness. WildLand has purchased the Dores Inn, located in the village of Dores, approximately 10 miles (16km) south of Inverness. The conservation and hospitality enterprise already possesses the nearby 300-year-old Aldourie Castle, along with 500 acres of associated grounds and woodland. It announced that the Dores Inn will undergo closure for approximately 24 months for restoration work, with an anticipated reopening in 2026-27. Mr. Holch Polvsen, who accumulated a portion of his wealth in the retail sector, is recognized as one of the UK’s richest individuals, with an estimated net worth exceeding £6bn. He holds title to hundreds of thousands of acres of land across Sutherland, Lochaber, and the Cairngorms, where WildLand participates in a beaver reintroduction initiative. The Dores Inn, which functions as both a pub and restaurant, stands as a notable establishment on the southern shore of Loch Ness. It received a visit from Queen Elizabeth and her husband Prince Phillip in 1967. Throughout the years, the Dores Inn has been owned by individuals such as local community stalwart Ella Macrae. WildLand stated its intention to restore the inn and its surrounding grounds. Chief executive Tim Kirkwood commented: “The Dores Inn is a popular and much-loved pub and restaurant in one of the most prominent and picturesque Loch Ness settings.” He continued: “When we heard that long-term sustainability of business at the site could be enhanced through investment in the premises, it became clear that we should look at solutions that will align well with the interests of our business and the local community alike.” Mr. Kirkwood affirmed that the business is dedicated to a substantial investment programme. He further stated: “We look forward to engaging and sharing detailed plans with the village once a full review has been undertaken.” WildLand indicated its intention to collaborate closely with the local community to address concerns regarding parking, public toilets, and access to a nearby beach. Dores is a favored destination for visitors from Inverness as well as tourists. However, parking facilities are restricted, and a nearby road can experience congestion during the peak tourist season.