Industry Update: The Waterside hotel opens new sea-view extension

One of Ayrshire’s coastal hotels has opened the doors to a new 17-bedroom sea-view extension as part of a wider £3million investment programme.

The Waterside Hotel at West Kilbride is now elevating the guest experience with a choice of new luxury guest suites and bedrooms with commanding sea views over the Firth of Clyde.

Located just 40 minutes from Glasgow, The Waterside maximises its beachfront location and setting with its New England-style design, vibrant restaurant and private gardens, which become a popular sun-trap during the summer months.

The new bedrooms have been designed with comfort and style in mind, each featuring super king-sized beds, luxurious bathrooms with walk-in showers, premium Scottish toiletries, and uninterrupted views across the Ayrshire coast.

On the first floor, guests can enjoy breath-taking sea views through French doors that open onto glass Juliette balconies, while ground-floor bedrooms offer the added luxury of private patios with seating, the perfect spot to relax and take in the coastal scenery.

The showpiece of the extension, the Kilmory Suite, boasts panoramic views across to the Isle of Arran from its own private balcony complete with hot tub. Inside, the suite features a separate bedroom, spacious living area with a double sofa bed, and two elegant bathrooms with walk-in showers, making it an ideal choice for couples or friends seeking both space and indulgence.

The new extension complements the existing 23 bedrooms already available at The Waterside, bringing the total number of guests rooms to 40.

Ayrshire hospitality group, SimpsInns, is the driving force behind The Waterside, as well as the group’s flagship venue, The Gailes Hotel & Spa, which is located just 20 minutes’ drive away in Irvine.

Malcolm Simpson from SimpsInns, said:

“At SimpsInns, we’re committed to exceeding our guests’ expectations and are regularly investing in our hotel and leisure facilities.

“As part of a wider £3million investment at The Waterside, we’re really excited to be unveiling our new 17-bedroom sea-view extension, providing even more space for people to enjoy the iconic Ayrshire coast backdrop with its white sand beaches and views over the Firth of Clyde towards the Isle of Arran.

“Work is also underway on our new luxury sea front spa at The Waterside, which is now due to open to guests by early 2026, following two years of work and planning.

“Special features will include six treatment rooms, a four-person Rasul experience, relaxation area, sauna with stunning sea views and steam room, as well as two experience showers.

“The new spa will also overlook the beach and will have a strong focus on the outdoors with a large hydro pool, outdoor shower, cold bucket, a sheltered firepit and seating area.

“As part of our ongoing investment, we are also refurbishing our restaurant. The transformation will see our current outdoor veranda enclosed with large windows, creating a stunning new dining space with uninterrupted views across our private gardens and out towards the beach.

“The Waterside is also one of Scotland’s top award-winning wedding venues. The Kyle Suite offers an idyllic sea-front location, including breath-taking views to the Isle of Arran from the water’s edge.

“Upgrades to our wedding suite taking place in the coming weeks include the addition of tiered crystal chandeliers, backlit mirrors and beautiful new chivari chairs. We are also adding a wedding bandstand to our gardens which will make a stunning setting for photographs.”

More information is available on The Waterside Hotel’s website.