John Wemyss aims to make the Old King’s Highway a centerpiece of the new Aberdeen market.
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Revitalizing Aberdeen: The transformation of the Old King’s Highway pub
The Old King’s Highway pub, a historic establishment in Aberdeen, is undergoing a significant transformation under the management of John Wemyss, managing director of Blinding Pub Group. With the impending completion of the new Aberdeen market, known as Flint, Wemyss is betting on the future of his business by revitalizing this iconic venue.
His vision is to create an “antique bar with a modern twist,” which he believes will attract a diverse clientele as the area develops.
Plans for a modern pub experience
Wemyss has ambitious plans for the Old King’s Highway, which is reputed to be the oldest pub in the city and one of its most haunted.
He aims to make the venue a central hub for social activity in the area. The renovations, which began on March 26, are expected to be completed in time for May Day. Among the features planned are an upstairs events space, a dedicated party bus, and even spooky-themed tours of the pub, all designed to enhance the customer experience.
Challenges and opportunities in the city center
Despite the ongoing construction work on The Green and surrounding streets, which has created challenging trading conditions, Wemyss remains optimistic. He believes that once the new market is operational, foot traffic will return to the area, revitalizing local businesses. Wemyss expressed confidence in the Aberdeen City Council’s masterplan for the city center and beach, stating, “We have taken this on with a long-term view in mind in the hope that the council has gotten this right.” His operations manager, Micha Daniel, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the potential for increased footfall once the market is complete.
Community and hospitality at the forefront
Wemyss is committed to providing a premium hospitality experience for customers, despite the current challenges. He aims to create a safe and welcoming environment where patrons can enjoy quality service. The pub’s transformation is not just about aesthetics; it’s about fostering a sense of community and belonging. Wemyss hopes to secure permission for an outdoor beer garden, further enhancing the venue’s appeal. He stated, “The way we see hospitality going, even if the footfall isn’t there, we can bring it to us with the function suite and the party bus. The venue is going to offer the customer everything.” This holistic approach to hospitality is indicative of Wemyss’s dedication to making the Old King’s Highway a beloved destination in Aberdeen.
Looking ahead: The future of Aberdeen’s city center
The transformation of the Old King’s Highway pub is part of a larger initiative to revitalize Aberdeen’s city center. Recent drone images have showcased the progress of the new market, which is being hailed as the most significant transformation in 200 years. The new food and drink market, Flint, will be surrounded by a pedestrian-friendly Union Street, complete with bike lanes and improved access. As construction continues, the first phase aims to complete the stretch between Market Street and St Nicholas Kirkyard by spring 2026. This ambitious project promises to breathe new life into the area, and Wemyss is eager to be a part of it.
