Key Points
- A landmark pub in East Lothian, near Edinburgh, previously closed for seven years, is undergoing an £850,000 makeover.
- The venue, formerly the County Hotel on North Berwick High Street, will reopen as The Law, a dog-friendly bar and restaurant with 11 bedrooms.
- East Lothian Licensing Board has approved licence changes for an outdoor garden area seating up to 100 people and extended hours.
- The transformation includes two bars, a restaurant, function space, and one of the largest gardens in town, creating up to 25 jobs.
- Neighbours’ concerns over noise and smoking were addressed with conditions, and the pub will be operated by the team behind The Ship Inn.
North Berwick (Edinburgh Daily News) February 5, 2026 – A tired landmark pub on North Berwick High Street, closed for seven years, is set for an £850,000 makeover by Star Pubs and the Discovery Group.
The County Hotel will reopen as The Law, featuring a dog-friendly bar, restaurant, 11 ensuite bedrooms, and one of the largest gardens in town with seating for 100 people.
What changes are planned for the landmark pub?
The £850,000 investment will transform the former seaside hotel and pub into a top-quality family and dog-friendly venue, according to reporting by The Edinburgh Reporter.
As reported by The Edinburgh Reporter of The Edinburgh Reporter, the revamped site will include two separate bars, a restaurant with a bar, function space, and ensuite letting rooms.
How did regulators respond to local concerns?
East Lothian Licensing Board approved changes to the premises licence last week, allowing use of the outdoor garden and extended operating hours.
What reassurances were given to objectors?
Neighbours raised issues about noise from outdoor use and smoking, but conditions were added to control problems, The Edinburgh Reporter noted.
One objector stated he took comfort from the plans for a well-operated venue, though he had not enjoyed living next to a deteriorating eyesore.
What is the expected timeline and impact?
The pub is due to reopen in September, overseen by the team operating The Ship Inn, with up to 25 jobs created.
The large garden has special dispensation for live music during Fringe By The Sea.
