Edinburgh Landlords Relaunch Neidpath Inn in Peebles Borders 2026

Key Points

• Gillian McIntee and Ben Smith, who ran the Kinleith Arms pub in Edinburgh’s Juniper Green suburb for 21 years, are relaunching their careers at the Neidpath Inn in Peebles, a small town in the Scottish Borders.​
• The couple is investing £290,000 in a comprehensive transformation of the closed Neidpath Inn, set to reopen in mid-April 2026.​
• The overhaul will create eight new jobs in the local Peebles area.​
• Gillian McIntee described Peebles as “a wonderful town” and the Neidpath Inn as “a gorgeous old pub with lots of potential, but it is in a sad state.”​
• Work on the refurbishment begins on Monday, including new lighting, flower baskets, and signage for the exterior.​
• The couple plans to bring some staff members from the Kinleith Arms to the new venue, as reported in local coverage.
• The Neidpath Inn, located at 27-29 Old Town, Peebles EH45 8JF, was previously advertised for lease by Star Pubs with estimated ingoing costs of £49,699 and annual rent of £44,797, ahead of a major refurbishment.​
• Attribution: Initial story covered by Rose Moncur of The Herald, with additional mentions in The Peeblean by Kirsty Peebles.​

Peebles (Edinburgh Daily News) February 26, 2026 – Gillian McIntee and Ben Smith, the couple behind the much-loved Kinleith Arms in Edinburgh’s Juniper Green suburb for 21 years, are set to breathe new life into the Neidpath Inn in Peebles. As reported by Rose Moncur of The Herald Scotland, the duo is undertaking a £290,000 transformation of the closed Borders pub, with an expected reopening in mid-April. This move promises to revive a historic venue while creating eight new local jobs.

Who Are Gillian McIntee and Ben Smith?

Gillian McIntee and Ben Smith have deep roots in Edinburgh’s pub scene, having managed the Kinleith Arms for over two decades. The pub, located in the popular Juniper Green area, became a community staple under their stewardship, known for its welcoming atmosphere and loyal clientele. After giving up the Kinleith tenancy, the pair identified an opportunity in Peebles, relocating with some of their experienced staff.

As noted by Kirsty Peebles in The Peeblean, “Ben Smith and Gillian McIntee have given up the Kinleith tenancy and will be bringing some members of staff with them when they take over the Old Town premises.” This continuity ensures a seamless transition, leveraging their proven track record in pub management.

Why Did They Leave the Kinleith Arms?

The decision to depart from the Kinleith Arms after 21 years marks the end of an era for the Edinburgh suburb venue. While specific reasons from McIntee and Smith remain focused on excitement for the new venture, broader industry challenges such as rising costs have impacted similar establishments. Rose Moncur of The Herald Scotland reported the couple’s shift without detailing financial pressures, emphasising their forward-looking plans.​

Local discussions, including on platforms like Facebook, confirm the lease for Kinleith Arms became available as the couple eyed Peebles. Their long tenure underscores resilience in a competitive sector, now pivoting to a fresh start in the Borders.

What Is the Neidpath Inn’s Background?

The Neidpath Inn, situated prominently at 27-29 Old Town in Peebles, has stood as a historic fixture in this bustling market town of nearly 10,000 residents. Prior to closure, it offered ales, spirits, stone-baked pizzas, and five guest rooms, attracting locals and visitors near the River Tweed. Star Pubs advertised it for lease, highlighting a major refurbishment opportunity with cosy interiors, a modernised bar, lounge, dining area, beer garden, and four ensuite letting bedrooms.

The pub’s “sad state,” as described by Gillian McIntee, necessitated the £290k upgrade, distinct from Star Pubs’ earlier estimates of £49,699 ingoing costs. Its location close to Peebles town centre positions it well for trade from residents and tourists exploring Borders landmarks like Traquair House.

What Transformations Are Planned for the Neidpath Inn?

The £290,000 refurbishment will dramatically revitalise the Neidpath Inn, starting works on Monday. Exterior enhancements include new lighting, flower baskets, and signage to boost kerb appeal on the main road. Internally, the venue will be “completely different,” receiving the “love and stability it needs to thrive,” according to Gillian McIntee.​

As reported by Rose Moncur of The Herald Scotland, Gillian McIntee said:

“We want to give it the love and stability it needs to thrive. It’ll be completely different when the works are completed.”

This aligns with prior plans for updated décor, improved lighting, and a quality pub food offer complementing cask beers. The goal is a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike.

When Will the Neidpath Inn Reopen?

The Neidpath Inn is slated to reopen in mid-April 2026, following the intensive refurbishment schedule. Work commences immediately on Monday, allowing time for the comprehensive upgrades amid Peebles’ spring season buildup. This timeline coincides with local events like the Scottish Snowdrop Festival, potentially drawing early crowds.​

Gillian McIntee expressed enthusiasm, stating as per The Herald Scotland:

“We’re very excited and are looking forward to being part of the town.”

The prompt relaunch reflects the couple’s commitment to swift community integration.

How Many Jobs Will This Create?

The project will generate eight new jobs in Peebles, boosting the local economy in this Scottish Borders town. These positions stem directly from the relaunch, filling roles in the revamped pub operations. With staff transfers from Kinleith Arms supplementing the hires, the team will blend familiarity and fresh talent.​

This development supports Peebles’ vibrant hospitality scene, where venues like the Neidpath Inn cater to a population of under 10,000 plus seasonal visitors.​

Why Choose Peebles for the Relaunch?

Peebles offers an appealing canvas for McIntee and Smith’s expertise, described by Gillian McIntee as “a wonderful town.” Its status as a market town in the Borders, with attractions drawing tourists, promises strong footfall. As per Rose Moncur’s Herald report, McIntee noted:

“It’s a wonderful town and we are thrilled to have found a pub here. The Neidpath Inn is a gorgeous old pub with lots of potential.”

The Peeblean by Kirsty Peebles corroborates the move, positioning it amid local news like garden reopenings and festivals. Proximity to Edinburgh, yet distinct rural charm, aligns with their vision for stability and growth.

What Is the Economic Impact on Peebles?

Beyond eight jobs, the Neidpath Inn’s revival injects £290k into the local economy, funding local contractors and suppliers. It enhances Peebles’ evening economy, complementing sites like Dawyck Botanic Garden and Kailzie Estate reopening nearby. Star Pubs’ promotion emphasised income from food, drinks, and bedrooms, sustaining trade year-round.

Community speculation on similar High Street changes reflects optimism for hospitality growth, as seen in planning for nearby restaurant conversions. Neutral observers note potential for increased visitor spend without specified backlash.​

How Does This Fit Pub Industry Trends?

This relaunch occurs amid Scottish pub challenges, including closures from rising costs, as seen with other Edinburgh venues like Kinleith Arms’ predecessors. Yet, investments like Star Pubs’ refurb plans signal resilience, with operators like McIntee and Smith adapting by relocating. The Peeblean frames it as positive tenancy news in a quiet January.

Gillian McIntee’s vision for a thriving, transformed pub counters narratives of decline, focusing on potential in underserved Borders spots.​

What Do Locals Say About the Plans?

Local reactions, gleaned from social media and newsletters, appear welcoming. Facebook posts confirm awareness of the staff move from Kinleith Arms. The Peeblean by Kirsty Peebles integrated it into “Town Chat” without noted opposition, alongside events like Wild Writers Festival.

Peebles’ community-oriented vibe, with groups like Peebles Cycling Club and orchestra projects, suggests the Neidpath Inn will integrate smoothly. No statements indicate controversy, aligning with McIntee’s optimistic outlook.​

What’s Next for the Neidpath Inn Team?

Post-reopening, McIntee and Smith aim to embed in Peebles, potentially developing food, beer, and accommodation offerings. Their 21 years at Kinleith Arms equip them for this, with staff continuity aiding operations. Monitoring spring progress will reveal if mid-April holds amid works starting Monday.​

As neutral reporting, this story draws solely from attributed sources: Rose Moncur (The Herald Scotland) for direct quotes and core details; Kirsty Peebles (The Peeblean) for relocation confirmation; Star Pubs listings for venue specs. Further updates expected as refurbishment advances.