Member of the Month – The Bandstand

This month we are featuring one of Nairn’s iconic pub/restaurants, The Bandstand.

When asked to be this month’s spotlighted member, Paul said “Very proud to be recognised as member of the month.  The Bandstand is striving to be a welcoming, inclusive and friendly community venue.”

How it started:

Paul & Lyndy Geddes bought The Bandstand (formerly the Braeval) – hotel, bar & restaurant – in April 2019. They were very keen to maintain the live music, award winning ale and food reputation; and build on this with new events, festivals, genres of music and introduce The Bandstand to a wider audience. Things were going wonderfully well for fifty-one weeks when Covid struck! Despite the obvious challenges this posed, The Bandstand has made it through the very tough times as have many businesses in Nairn. The Bandstand is located on Nairn Links, with a wonderful view of the sea from their conservatory restaurant and many of the guest bedrooms.

How it’s going:

The Bandstand currently employs over 20 marvellous staff on a mix of permanent, part-time, and seasonal jobs.

Paul and Lyndy are the owners and Directors of The Bandstand.  Paul plays a very active role in day-to-day management, events, and promotion.  During lockdown Lyndy went back into corporate life, working for a London based regulatory business.

Like many businesses, they hoped that getting through Covid would give a reprieve from crippling challenges but no… energy prices have tripled, food and drinks inflation have gone through the roof, but despite this, Paul is determined to battle on and keep the Bandstand spirit alive and kicking.

The Bandstand were thrilled to win CAMRA Highlands & Islands Pub of the Year 2020 and even more delighted to retain the award in 2022.  They have also been nominated in various national awards including best beer selection in Scotland and best independent pub in Scotland.  They are also proud to hold a Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Award and a Five Star Cellar rating from Cask Marque.

What’s in the future:

The Team at The Bandstand are looking forward to their upcoming annual Beer & Music Festival from 25th to 29th May. Now in its 15th year, the festival has become the largest independent beer festival in Scotland. The beer garden marquee will remain up for a second weekend with a brand-new festival. The team are PROUD to introduce ‘I Feel Love’. A fun, party focussed, inclusive weekend from 2nd to 4th June.

When asked if there was anything else in the pipeline we were told:
“Think I’ve said enough, yes, but more ideas are coming, the challenge is fitting them all in the calendar! Keep watching our Facebook page and website.”

So, there you have it, straight from the Bandstand’s mouth, watch this space!