Beloved Glasgow whisky bar Bon Accord reopens under new owners

The Bon Accord, a renowned whisky bar on North Street, re-opened last night under new licensees, Ken Stott and Euan McMillan, following its closure after 55 years.

The duo are well known in the city’s hospitality scene, having started out at The Lismore Bar and later taking over The Ben Nevis Bar and The Machair.

A beloved Glasgow pub is raising a glass to new beginnings, days after it announced its initial closure. (Image: Mark F Gibson / Gibson Digital)

Ken Stott said: "We love The Bon Accord’s history and its unique atmosphere.

A beloved Glasgow pub is raising a glass to new beginnings, days after it announced its initial closure. (Image: Mark F Gibson / Gibson Digital)

"We are keen to preserve its cosy, lived-in feel and features like its lovely worn leather armchairs, as well as maintain its authentic, down-to-earth character, which Paul McDonagh created over so many years.

A beloved Glasgow pub is raising a glass to new beginnings, days after it announced its initial closure. (Image: Mark F Gibson / Gibson Digital)

"We want to build on this iconic pub’s reputation.

"The changes we’re planning are enhancements rather than a radical departure from what has made The Bon Accord beloved by so many."

A beloved Glasgow pub is raising a glass to new beginnings, days after it announced its initial closure. (Image: Mark F Gibson / Gibson Digital)

Plans include reintroducing Scottish live music, reopening the kitchen seven days a week, updating the menu to include modern dishes alongside pub classics, and hosting whisky events and summer beer festivals.

A beloved Glasgow pub is raising a glass to new beginnings, days after it announced its initial closure. (Image: Mark F Gibson / Gibson Digital)

Stott said: "We promise whisky, real ales, good food and good times and with that in mind will be hosting a party on the evening of Thursday, June 4 to celebrate our taking on The Bon Accord.

"We’d love it if regulars and new customers could join us – a great atmosphere is guaranteed."

He also thanked the staff and extended well wishes to Paul’s son Thomas.

Stott said: "We’d like to wish Paul’s son Thomas success with his new venture.

"And finally we’d like to say thank you to the lovely staff at The Bon Accord for all their hard work helping to get the pub open again so quickly and to the customers who came in last night for making us feel so welcome.

"Cheers to many happy days and evenings ahead."

Craig Johnstone, business development manager at Star Pubs, said the new owners were "an ideal fit" for the venue.

Johnstone said: "Ken and Euan are friends and partners both with a passion for traditional Scottish pubs, produce and culture.

"They are an ideal fit for The Bon Accord and will be great custodians of its future."