ATLANTA, GA – December 8, 2021 – Valor Hospitality Partners, a global, full-service hotel management company announced today their partnership with U.S. based Links Collection and Ireland-based Wirefox to operate the Scores Hotel in St. Andrews, beginning with an 18-month renovation. Formed by Dallas, Texas based partners Robert Covington and Jonathan Harper, the Links Collection is the culmination of a mutual goal to develop and grow a desirable portfolio of small boutique hotels around iconic U.K. golf destinations, following their lifelong enthusiasm for links golf and love of the U.K. Wirefox, owned by B.J. Eastwood, a recognized property developer from Belfast, will lead the development, while Valor Hospitality will provide all hospitality development consulting services followed by managing the property upon opening.
Links Collection and Wirefox acquired the 36-room historic property from the Mann family who owned and operated the hotel for the past 34 years. The new ownership and Valor Hospitality are dedicated to renovating the property into a world-class destination while maintaining its original history and character. As property operator, Valor Hospitality will assist Wirefox in overseeing the Scores Hotel renovation. Once the hotel has reopened, Valor Hospitality will bring their knowledge and love of creating best in the world guest experiences to fruition. From industry leading employee training programs centered around emotional and social intelligence, to property positioning and renowned food and beverage venues aimed at locals and hotel guests alike, the guest experience and sense of place will be unlike any other.
“Our team is thrilled to begin operating and overseeing the Scores Hotel amid its much-anticipated refurbishment. Valor Hospitality’s deep understanding of the hotel industry will ensure the property is set up for nothing but success,” said Euan McGlashan, CEO and global co-founder, Valor Hospitality Partners. “It was an ideal fit to partner with Robert, Jonathan and Wirefox for this venture, and the Scores property in St. Andrews was the natural next step in our global portfolio expansion. We look forward to bringing our unique luxury experience to every aspect of the property as we have done in our safari lodges in Africa, as well as some of our bigger golf projects such as Fancourt golf resort in South Africa and McLemore in the U.S.”
The refurbishment will expand the existing space to create a luxurious boutique hotel, combining old world hospitality with modern charm. Roy Brett, chef patron of Scotland’s number one restaurant, Ondine in Edinburgh, will take deep involvement in the kitchen and restaurant redesign and food and beverage concepts in conjunction with Valor Hospitality’s global restaurant team, headed by Chris Martha, Michelin Star Chef Matt Gray and London based interior design firm Goddard Littlefair. The property will feature multiple dining outlets including a restaurant, bar, café, garden patio and outdoor terrace as well as intimate and unique experiences for guests to enjoy. The hotel also plans to support the local economy while aiming to employ approximately 70 local staff members amid its reopening, as well as sourcing local produce to be used throughout the property.
“We are beyond excited to be working with local professionals to make our Scores Hotel vision come true,” said Brian McCarthy, managing director, Valor Hospitality Partners. “After a few tough years, we are thrilled to bring life back to St. Andrews and share this incredible property with visitors and locals alike.”
The Scores Hotel combines a fine 1864 Victorian House (Seaton house) with an 1880’s Boy’s School (St. Salvator’s School). The two historic buildings were formally joined together in the summer of 2012 to create additional suites within the hotel. Known for its beautiful historic town, world-renowned university, and world-famous golf courses, it’s easy to see why St. Andrews is both a sought-after destination and lovingly referred to as the ‘home of golf’.
Scores Hotel is set to reopen in 2023, when it will welcome back the local community and international travelers alike.
For more information on Valor Hospitality Partners, their leadership team and global properties, visit valorhospitality.com.
