Future of The Turf in doubt as it goes up for sale

The Turf in Eglinton Street was listed on Rightmove last week for £350,000.

The news that the traditional boozer is up for sale will be sure to leave many of its loyal regulars upset at the uncertainty of its future.

The Turf, which formerly traded as a The Turf Hotel, before closing the hotel arm of its business, is owned by Greene King, who run Belhaven Pubs.

The company also owns The Carrick in Irvine’s High Street, Rabbie’s in Ayr and Dorouthy Neebors in Largs and Ayr.

The bar is the latest Irvine pub to face an uncertain future after the Times revealed the well-loved Ship Inn has also been put on the market.

On the estate agent website Rightmove the Turf is described as: “Of traditional construction with a white painted exterior , laid over partly two levels under both a pitched and slate roof to the front and tiled roof extension to rear. The business which formally traded as a hotel and occupied the building next door, has a public bar, lounge and rear function room all occupied on the ground floor. 

“The Turf Hotel previously traded as a hotel up until it consolidated as a bar. It is very much a traditional bar which offers first class hostelry and service. Quality ales and lagers are served whilst Sky Sports is available.

The pub is run under management with 100% wet sales. There is an unused kitchen on the upper level which with investment may be utilised.

A spokesperson for Greene King refused to explain in detail the decision to sell the pub, but said it was a “difficult decision”.

He said: “As a leading pub operator and brewer, we are committed to running high quality community pubs. To be able to continue to invest in our estate, from time to time we have to make the difficult decision to sell a pub. After much consideration, we have decided to put the Turf Hotel on the market. In the meantime the pub remains open for business and continues to serve customers.”