The historic Golden Lion hotel in Stirling has a new owner
He said: 'I look forward to bringing my hospitality knowledge and experience in leading a passionate team to enhance their fabulous Scottish hospitable service, whilst sourcing quality local produce and supporting local suppliers, making The Golden Lion hotel the venue of choice for those wanting to stay, dine, drink and socialise.
'It's in a great location just two minutes from the train station and five minutes from Stirling Castle, with so much potential including a 250-seat ballroom and five ground floor meeting rooms.
'It is exciting to work alongside many long-serving colleagues, listening to their ideas, thoughts and suggestions to help build on the hotel's reputation and reach new markets.'
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The hotel was built in 1786 when the street, known in medieval times as the High Gait, was originally known as Quality Street. It was renamed King Street in 1821 to celebrate the coronation of George IV.
Mr Atkinson said: "With the historic connections we will be aiming to focus on 'quality for a King' and I will be on site working hard to make a positive difference, raising both standards and expectations for those choosing to stay, dine, celebrate their memorable wedding, or simply meeting up for a coffee or drink with colleagues and friends savouring over the vast selection of Scottish malt whiskies, exciting cocktails and late night bar nibbles.
"My aim is to always strive for focused care, attention to detail and professionalism in our offering, and to enjoy the love and energy of every project I have been involved in. I had been looking for the right hotel to buy for some time and this was an ideal and exciting opportunity I was very keen to secure.
"Together with the team, we will steadily work to improve every aspect of the business, putting the emphasis on providing superb hospitality as well as helping to promote Stirling as a fantastic visitor destination."
Mr Atkinson is described as a 'seasoned' hospitality expert currently offering consultancy advice to the hospitality trade, having previously owned and run hotels and stadiums. He is also a business ambassador for the Scottish Chambers of Commerce, and a member of its Scottish Business Advisory Group.
Ms Wardley-Smith will not be involved in the day-to-day running of the hotel and will continue to work full-time for Scottish Chambers of Commerce. However, Mr Atkinson noted that Ms Wardley-Smith is from Stirling and "knows the hotel well which puts me under huge added pressure to make her proud of what we deliver for the city".
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