In a significant triumph for local initiative, the **Glenuig Inn Community** has officially taken ownership of the historic Glenuig Inn, a beloved establishment on the west coast of Scotland. This landmark achievement, celebrated with ‘big cheers’ from residents, marks the culmination of years of dedicated effort by the Glenuig Community Inn Limited (GCI) and the wider Moidart community. The deal ensures the future of the inn as a vital hub for locals and visitors alike, promising continued service, engagement, and cultural vibrancy for the **Glenuig Inn Community**.
The **Glenuig Inn Community** Embraces a Historic Landmark
The Glenuig Inn, nestled in a beautiful bay on the west coast of the Scottish Highlands, boasts a rich history, with stonework dating back to the 1700s, linked to the Jacobite Rebellion and even a building burned down in 1746 by soldiers pursuing Bonnie Prince Charlie. For generations, it has served as a traditional ‘ceilidh house,’ attracting traditional musicians from across Scotland and providing a warm welcome to walkers, kayakers, cyclists, sailors, and swimmers. When the previous owner, Rona Yard, announced her intention to sell the inn in late 2023, residents were determined to prevent the loss of their local, a concern echoed by many in rural Scotland, highlighting the importance of the **Glenuig Inn Community**.
The Road to **Community Ownership Scotland** for the Glenuig Inn
The journey to **community ownership Scotland** began in December 2023, with a meeting in Glenuig Hall to gauge community sentiment. This led to the formation of a volunteer committee in January 2024, who then established Glenuig Community Inn Ltd (GCI), a Community Benefit Society registered with the Financial Conduct Authority in August 2024. Extensive community engagement, including surveys and workshops, confirmed overwhelming support for a community buyout, with one questionnaire returning 100% in favour for the **Glenuig Inn Community**.
To fund the acquisition, GCI launched a comprehensive fundraising campaign. This involved a community share offer, allowing locals and supporters worldwide to invest, and a Crowdfunder campaign which offered various rewards. The goal was to raise £700,000 to purchase the inn, its buildings, land, and stock, while also covering legal fees and initial working capital. Significant fundraising events were held, including ceilidhs and performances by artists like Shooglenifty, Malin Lewis, and Jim Hunter, which brought in substantial funds for this vital **rural community business**.
A pivotal moment in the campaign was the confirmation of a substantial grant from the **Scottish Land Fund**. This award, amounting to £352,800, along with the community share offer response (£300,182 pledged) and Crowdfunder contributions (£14,420 in rewards and £4,164 in donations), ultimately secured the necessary funds to complete the purchase. The total amount raised to secure the sale reached £650,000. The Plunkett Foundation, a charity that supports rural community businesses, also provided crucial support and advice throughout the process to **save local pub** efforts.
A Thriving **Glenuig Inn Community** Hub for the Future
With the purchase now complete, the Glenuig Inn is set to continue its legacy as a vibrant community asset. The vision for the inn includes maintaining its role as a pub, restaurant, and accommodation provider, while also developing it into an inclusive community events space. The community plans to support local businesses and food producers, offer year-round employment and training opportunities, and reinvest profits back into the **Glenuig Inn Community**.
This success story is part of a growing trend across Scotland, where community ownership is breathing new life into rural villages and preserving vital local landmarks. The Glenuig Inn joins other community-run assets in the village, such as the village hall and shop, reinforcing Glenuig’s status as a community-driven locale and a testament to the **Moidart community**.
The community’s dedication and collective effort have not only saved a cherished **historic Highland pub** but have also strengthened the social fabric of Glenuig. As committee member Lou Johnson stated, “It is so exciting to finally be at this stage, after two years of hoping, hard work and community effort. Everyone involved has played a part and we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our supporters – and we hope to see you soon at the bar for a celebratory dram!”. The acquisition of the Glenuig Inn is a testament to what can be achieved when a community unites for a shared vision, ensuring this iconic West Coast establishment thrives for generations to come. The news is significant, marking a positive step for rural enterprise and a compelling topic for editorial discussion across the region’s news outlets, truly celebrating the **Glenuig Inn Community**.
