scottish tourism month

ALVA 2022 visitor figures

The Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA) has released the visitor figures of its members for 2022 during Scottish Tourism Month.  The total number of visits to ALVA sites in 2022 was more than 123 million, which was a 69% increase on the previous year. However this represented a decline of 23% on the 161.2 million visits in 2019 to the top 349 ALVA sites. 

Indoor sites enjoyed the strongest year-on-year growth with a 176% increase, ahead of mixed sites at 44% and outdoor sites reported a far more modest increase of 5%. The most-visited attraction in the UK continued to be Windsor Great Park, which is managed by the Crown Estate, which received more than 5.6 million visits. This reported an increase of 4% on 2021 visitor figures. 

For Scottish attractions, the highest ranking free attraction  continued to be the National Museum of Scotland (NMS), which was in eleventh place and saw an 199% increase to 1,9 million visitors. NMS was followed by Edinburgh Castle, which was the  most visited paid for attraction in Scotland and rose to sixteenth place with more than 1.3 million visitors.

Scottish National Gallery and Glasgow's Riverside Museum ranked respectively in seventeenth and nineteenth place. 

Several Scottish attractions were also among the largest percentage increases in visitor numbers for 2022. This includes the People’s Palace in Glasgow, which saw a 4,411% increase to 146,389 visitors) and Glasgow Cathedral saw an increase of 658% at 256,001 visitors.

Trends by attraction type

Museums & Galleries reported a rise of 158% more visits compared with 2021 figure. Visits to Heritage & Cathedral sites and Zoo's increased by 55% and 15% respectively.

Gardens & Leisure (-0.3%) attractions experienced the weakest performance, with a slight decrease by 0.3% compared to 2021. However, when comparing 2022 with 2019 by attraction type, it was revealed that both Gardens & Leisure (+3%) and Zoos (-4%) were welcoming similar volumes of visits as before the pandemic. The remaining types of attractions all ended 2022 with visitor numbers still between 23% to 32% below their 2019 figures.

The cost-of-living crisis was also reflected in the annual figures for 2022. Attractions who offer free entry, except for special exhibitions and events, reported the strongest year-on-year growth in visits with a 183% increase. In comparison, attractions which charged admission experienced a 101% rise in visitors.

Look at the national visitor figures

To find out more about the ALVA visitor figures, including greater detail for attractions in England and Northern Ireland, visit the ALVA website.  

Related links

New strategy for the south of scotland, scottish thistle awards return for 2023, join our website user panel, types of visitors.

Scottish Tourism Month 2022

The aim of scottish tourism month is to engage, connect and inspire all of scotland’s tourism businesses and organisations and to celebrate the contribution of our tourism industry to the economy..

Traveltech for Scotland

There are several events taking place throughout March 2022 which will deliver insights, inspiration and information on the latest tourism trends to support our industry as we move through recovery.

The scottish tourism alliance lists scottish tourism month events across the country, from conferences and workshops to roadshows and community events..

Community led tourism week takes place from 21 March, with the launch of the Outdoor Tourism Strategy for Scotland launching on 29 March.

Get the full list of events and further information via the button below.

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Language: English / Gàidhlig

• Chamber and committees
• Official Report
• Back to Search what was said in Parliament
• Meeting of the Parliament 22/03/2022

Meeting of the Parliament (Hybrid)

Meeting date: tuesday, march 22, 2022.

Official Report 1001KB pdf

• Time for Reflection
• Business Motion
• Topical Question Time
• Complex Care (Out-of-area Placements and Delayed Discharge)
• Good Food Nation (Scotland) Bill: Stage 1
• Parliamentary Bureau Motions
• Decision Time

Scottish Tourism Month 2022

The Deputy Presiding Officer (Liam McArthur) Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M3896E381P717C2390513 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

The final item of business is a members’ business debate on motion S6M-02970, in the name of Evelyn Tweed, on Scottish tourism month 2022. The debate will be concluded without any question being put. As ever, I invite members who wish to participate to press their request-to-speak button or place an R in the chat function.

Motion debated,

That the Parliament recognises that March is Scottish Tourism Month; understands that the aim of this is to engage, connect and inspire all of Scotland’s tourism businesses and organisations, as well as celebrate what it sees as the enormous contribution that tourism makes to Scotland; considers that the sector has been severely impacted over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic; understands what it sees as the importance of tourism to a sustainable recovery, with the sector reportedly worth £11.5 billion pre-pandemic and accounting for 8.5% of jobs in Scotland; welcomes the opportunities that the industry provides to people, places, businesses and communities by, it considers, acting as a stimulus for entrepreneurialism and investment, the benefits of which it believes spread far beyond tourism; further believes tourism to be a force for good across the country, enriching the economy, communities and environment; commends what it sees as Scottish tourism’s significant contribution toward Scotland’s profile on the world stage; considers that tourism can also play an important part in promoting wellness, particularly as people emerge from long periods of isolation brought about by the pandemic, and notes the view that it will take investment, support and time for the industry to fully recover to pre-pandemic levels.

Evelyn Tweed (Stirling) (SNP) Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M16182E407P743C2390514 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

I am delighted to lead this debate on Scottish tourism month—a month when our nation’s tourism industry comes together to host events under the Scottish tourism banner. I thank all members who will contribute to the debate.

The aim of Scottish tourism month, which is co-ordinated by the Scottish Tourism Alliance, is to engage, connect and inspire all of Scotland’s tourism industry. It celebrates the enormous contribution that tourism makes to Scotland’s economy and is an opportunity to showcase what our country has to offer both domestic and international visitors.

After two long, hard years, this is a critical time for tourism, and a focus is required to address some of the issues that the sector faces while declaring Scotland open for business. After all, Scotland may be a wee nation, but there is nothing small about our offer. Scotland boasts big, beautiful landscapes, with 30,000 lochs, 282 Munros and around 3,000 castles. Our incredible food and drink is of the highest quality and is world renowned, even if the more squeamish tourists may think twice about trying haggis.

As Scotland celebrates the year of stories in 2022, we enjoy stories and poetry of centuries of Scottish history, filled with epic battles and equally epic romances. Every year, millions of visitors enjoy our cities and towns, which are bursting with culture, talent and creativity. We should remember that Edinburgh festival fringe is still the largest arts festival in the world. Scotland has something to offer everyone, no matter the season or the weather. As Billy Connolly once said,

“There are two seasons in Scotland: June and winter.”

I promise that the weather does get a little warmer in the summer.

Brand Scotland is one of the strongest national identities in the world. In recent years, thanks to the success of popular shows such as “Outlander”, tourism has boomed at historic sites such as Doune castle, which has seen visitor numbers rise by 200 per cent. Scottish tourism is an economic and social powerhouse. It creates wealth, jobs and social benefits in every part of the country, while enhancing the wellbeing of our holidaymakers.

Spending by visitors in Scotland generates approximately £11.5 billion of economic activity for the wider Scottish supply chain. It directly contributes around £6 billion to Scottish gross domestic product, and 8.5 per cent of all businesses in Scotland are related to tourism. Tourism is a driving force for providing the jobs of today and tomorrow. For every £60,000 that is spent by visitors, a new job is created in Scotland.

In 2019, in Forth valley alone, there were 683,000 overnight visits, 8.1 million day visits and a spend of £328 million. However, during the pandemic, this strong and iconic sector arguably took a bigger hit than most. A VisitScotland survey in 2020 found that 99 per cent of businesses had experienced cancellations, a decline in bookings or fewer visitors. Many of those businesses experienced losses of up to £50,000, and for some, losses were substantially higher. By the end of 2020, more than a third of Scottish businesses overall reported to VisitScotland that they did worse than expected when they reopened in early autumn, although one in four did better.

To say that it has been a dark and worrying time for our tourism industry would be an understatement. However, it is always darkest before the dawn. With the confident strides that we are making out of Covid, there are encouraging signs of what lies ahead. In my constituency, bed and breakfasts on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond have advised that visitors are booking up very early for the year ahead, and in numbers; Stirling castle is developing exciting plans for the new season and is seeing visitors returning; and last year, Go Ape in Aberfoyle had one of its busiest years on record. Their hope is that, with the world becoming ever more conscious of its carbon footprint, the staycation trend is here to stay.

For me, the Scottish staycations that I shared with my family were a silver lining of the pandemic. We even had one in my own constituency during one of the lockdowns, which was absolutely fantastic. We had some of our best holidays ever. Scotland truly is a beautiful, amazing and welcoming place and—a wee plug—if you have not been to Stirlingshire, please come and see us soon. We need to ensure that we capitalise on our staycation offer in order to boost our economies and see for ourselves what a wonderful country we live in and what it has to offer.

Trade is returning, but any growth in tourism must be sustainable. Parts of rural Scotland in particular have become bucket-list destinations, which brings with it significant challenges around labour, housing for staff, infrastructure and connectivity. We must work together to seek solutions to those issues and ensure that our tourism sector is viable, sustainable and thriving for the future. Scotland is throwing open its doors to allow our vitally important tourism industry to flourish once more. My message today is simple: Scotland is open for business and we cannot wait to see you.

Willie Coffey (Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley) (SNP) Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M3907E389P725C2390515 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

I thank Evelyn Tweed for bringing the debate to the chamber. It comes at an important time for the tourism industry in Scotland, as we slowly begin to emerge from two years of restrictions as a result of Covid.

To say that our tourism industry took a hammering during Covid is a huge understatement, but the signs are that it is recovering slowly, as we move into spring and—we hope—into a warm and welcoming summer. Evelyn Tweed’s motion, which is supported by many members in the Parliament, recognises the huge difficulties that are faced by the industry. However, it also applauds the wonderful efforts of the sector to get back on its feet, in particular by promoting wellness, which can play an important part in reversing the sense of isolation that we all felt during the darkest days of the pandemic.

Was it not the worst feeling not to be able to go out: to travel somewhere to our favourite spot in Scotland to spend a day or so, to enjoy a break, helping the local economy at the same time, or to make that trip to the sun that so many enjoy? I recall that the nearest that I got was to visit the Waterside hotel in Seamill with my partner, when travel was permitted only inside our own health board area. The restrictions were well enforced, but the welcome that we got from the staff was pretty special. We could tell that they were genuinely delighted that we had made the effort to come.

What has definitely emerged from the pandemic experience is that many more people have begun to enjoy walking more than ever before. They have been enjoying their local countryside, including hill walks and the wonderful beach walks in Ayrshire, which were featured on television by Kate Humble as she walked Ayrshire’s coastal path routes, taking in Culzean, Dunure and Greenan castles. New tourism offerings might do well to recognise that and try to incorporate some of those experiences for people as they broaden their horizons and expectations for leisure breaks in the future.

I look forward to hearing members championing their local areas and what they have to offer. Of course, I am no different in promoting that wonderful part of Scotland, Ayrshire. We have some of the world’s finest golf courses; the greatest food to offer; and spectacular beaches and castles along the coast and in my constituency, with the amazing Dean, Rowallan and Craufurdland castles all offering something unique for visitors, as well as our historic Loudoun Hill. We also lay claim to Scotland’s big three—Wallace, Bruce and Burns—and the heritage that is associated with those three giants of Scottish history can literally be felt and touched throughout Ayrshire.

How should those offerings change after Covid? I mentioned that people are doing things differently and having different experiences that they might want to retain, such as walking and cycling, and taking part in urban walks and storytelling, bringing our town’s historical past to life, combined with flexible booking and the ability to mix and match those experiences to get the best value and make the best use of their leisure time. We might want to retain some of the measures that were put in place to help protect people. By that I mean still providing safe spaces for people and their families, who might value that and enjoy the space and security that that delivers.

The industry in Scotland will recover, and it will develop its offering to people from far and wide once again, always focusing on quality. It will need to innovate to reach out to new markets and new experiences that people may now want to be included when they come to Scotland. I am certain that the industry will go from strength to strength in the coming year.

I once again offer my congratulations to my colleague Evelyn Tweed on securing the debate. I am looking forward to the rest of the contributions from other members.

Sharon Dowey (South Scotland) (Con) Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M16212E348P837C2390516 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

I thank Evelyn Tweed for bringing the motion to the chamber for debate.

I note the immense efforts made by Scotland’s tourism sector over the past two years. Many businesses have struggled. They have had to cope with an ever-shifting landscape of restrictions and some have gone under, sadly, over the course of the pandemic. The sector is a backbone of the Scottish economy, and it requires our support. Accordingly, I urge every MSP to learn about their local attractions this week, to give them some support and to encourage people to visit. After all, if our representatives are not enthusiastic about visiting, why would anybody else be?

Evelyn Tweed

Will the member take an intervention?

Sharon Dowey Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M16212E348P837C2390518 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

Not at the moment.

Tourism has a vital role to play in Scotland’s recovery—that is without doubt. Scotland was on a roll prior to the pandemic, with a 33 per cent increase in visits between 2018 and 2019 and a 37 per cent increase in spend by tourists. Much of that tourism was domestic. In fact, 37 per cent of all overnight stays were undertaken by visitors from Scotland. The United Kingdom market still greatly outweighs the overseas market, with more than a third of visits to Scotland coming from English, Welsh and Northern Irish visitors. Those figures will only have risen during the years of the staycation. A key priority now should be to retain those visitors, ensuring that Scotland remains competitive against cheap flights abroad and winter sun.

Investments such as that in the mountain biking centre in Innerleithen, which was announced recently, are an encouraging development. With hill walking, mountain biking and kayaking, active tourism is a major market upon which Scotland has an infinite capacity to capitalise. That is down to both Scotland’s Governments. After all, visitors often tie in a visit to Scotland with visits to other UK nations. As we go forward, it is really important to retain the active tourism market and to encourage repeat visits. That is why it is reassuring to see the UK Government and the Scottish Government working together through the Borderlands deal. The £19 million that has just been invested in Caerlee mill is a great example of how Westminster and Holyrood can work together to deliver world-class facilities. The new centre will not only bring together companies and athletes from around the world, but build upon the success of the world mountain biking championship in Fort William and create a great local facility for the people of Peeblesshire.

Scotland’s festivals are returning, which is a welcome boost for the tourism sector. Having met many of their representatives over the past months, I have seen how hard things have been for them, and it is great to see how excited they are about their festivals returning. Not only are those festivals important parts of the regional economy; they have a major role to play in bringing culture to parts of Scotland beyond the traditional heartlands of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Events such as the Boswell book festival, the Spectra festival of light in Aberdeen and the Doune the Rabbit Hole festival in Cardross, as well as culinary celebrations such as Taste of Shetland, all attract visitors and fuel rural economies.

Local authorities have a big job to do here. Many of them do excellent work with tight budgets, but that is precisely the problem. Arts and culture fuel a huge chunk of Scottish tourism, yet those budgets are being cut by nearly every council in every corner of Scotland. The issue lies with local government funding. Councils simply need more support from central Government. Without a serious intervention, many more events and festivals may suffer.

Once again, I urge all members to get behind their local events and tourism businesses as much as they can.

Christine Grahame (Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale) (SNP) Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M1756E451P787C2390519 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

It goes without saying—although I will say it—that businesses that depend directly on tourists, or indirectly, as suppliers or through tourist footfall, have had a tough time over the past two years. Thank goodness for Government support here and through the UK furlough scheme, which let at least some of those businesses keep ticking.

Covid also had an upside, as folk travelled close to home rather than take flight—literally. Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale boast much to attract, from the National Mining Museum in Newtongrange to the small independent museum in Melrose, the Trimontium, which narrates the story of the nearby Roman settlement and the spread of the Romans across Scotland—they even reached the Isle of Skye; I do not know whether they reached Orkney, but I will check that out for you, Presiding Officer.

Then there is Abbotsford, the eclectic home of Sir Walter Scott, also near Melrose. Incidentally, in the armoury there, the shield for the Scott family is on the wall right next to the family shield for the Grahame family—and that is Grahame with an E; members can read into that what they like.

Galashiels is now the location of the great tapestry of Scotland and—something that I like a bit better—a wonderful statue of the charismatic Robert Coltart, who devised Coulter’s candy and the famous jingle,

“Ally bally, ally bally bee”,

which I think was the first advertising jingle ever to be developed. I think that that is more interesting.

Most of those attractions can be reached by travelling along the Borders railway. This is where I repeat my call for integrated ticketing for train journeys and bus day tickets, with discounted entry to tourist attractions.

For someone of an energetic frame of mind, there is ample scope to cycle many of the dedicated routes or to have a go at mountain biking on the trails at Innerleithen and Glentress, which have been mentioned—although they are only partially open just now, due to storm damage. Borders Buses lets people know—literally, as it says on the buses, “The bus you can take your bike on”—that they can take their bikes when they travel.

For the hyperactive, the Pentland hills are there for the taking, although—mind—people should treat them thar hills and the livestock with respect.

For someone who likes people gazing, taking a seat outside a local pub or hotel on Peebles High Street or Penicuik precinct and taking their time over a glass of wine or coffee—or perhaps both—will get them going.

At this time of year, someone who wants to admire rhododendrons and azaleas—that is my gig—should take a ramble through Dawyck or Kailzie gardens. After that, they could pamper themselves and deal with their aches and pains at nearby, award-winning Stobo castle.

That was my little tour of the tourist attractions in the Borders. My constituency is a hidden gem, a stone’s throw—or a short bus or train journey—from here, our capital city. I invite all members to visit some of the attractions that I mentioned, to see for themselves. I especially invite the minister, because I want to educate him about the benefits of the Borders and Midlothian.

My hope is that the staycations of recent months become a habit. Whether we are talking about a day out or a weekend away, all the wee local shops, businesses, hotels, pubs and B and Bs benefit. With this week’s weather, what more could we ask? Sunburn is not good for our skin, we will not lose our luggage and we will be doing our bit for the local economy.

The Deputy Presiding Officer

Thank you, Ms Grahame. Your invitation to Stobo is surely in the post.

I call Paul McLennan, to be followed by Claire Baker.

Paul McLennan (East Lothian) (SNP) Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M16179E391P727C2390521 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

I thank Evelyn Tweed for securing this evening’s debate.

I am kind of disappointed that none of our colleagues from the Labour Party is in the chamber and that only one colleague from the Conservative Party is left here. I want to put that on the record—

Mr McLennan, I have called Claire Baker to speak next. She will be joining us remotely.

Paul McLennan Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M16179E391P727C2390523 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

I apologise.

As co-convener of the cross-party group on tourism, I am delighted to speak in the debate. East Lothian is a tourism hot spot with a spectacular history and landscape. According to the “East Lothian Visitor Survey 2021”, tourism generates £280 million a year for the local economy and accounts for 10 per cent of the jobs in our area.

As well as bringing economic benefits, tourism plays a key part in maintaining wellbeing and good mental health and providing educational opportunities.

As part of Scottish tourism month, I visited the Scottish Seabird Centre, which enables visitors to engage with coastal wildlife, observe birds on the Bass Rock and enhance their learning. If members have not had a chance to take a boat to the Bass Rock, I urge them please to do so in the next few months.

The Bass Rock is home to more than 150,000 northern gannets at the peak of the season, which makes it the world’s largest colony of those birds. If members have not seen it, they should do so because it is a spectacular sight. The gannets spend most of the year on the Bass Rock, arriving in late February and leaving about the end of October, when they set out on their long journey down to the west coast of Africa.

Golf tourism is also huge in East Lothian, with Gullane and North Berwick attracting visitors from around the globe. We also have Muirfield golf club, Archerfield golf club and the Renaissance golf club, among others that have hosted Scottish and British open championships. Recently, four of the East Lothian courses between Gullane and North Berwick were listed in the top 100 golf courses in Great Britain and Ireland.

Alongside golf, there are regular visitors to the coast for water sports such as surfing and to the wonderful Foxlake Adventures facility just outside Dunbar. Of course, East Lothian is also home to the National Museum of Flight on the UK’s best-preserved second world war airfield, which is home to Concorde and another 50 aircraft. We are also blessed with the wonders of Tantallon castle among others.

Tourism plays a key part in our local economy. Restrictions and changing behaviour have meant that the industry has struggled across East Lothian and Scotland over the past couple of years. There have also been struggles in the sector because of Brexit. Labour shortages are hitting the sector extremely hard at the moment.

In its briefing for the debate, UKHospitality stated that the taxation regime imposed on hospitality is an unfair burden on businesses. We have to raise that point. UKHospitality has argued for a reduction in VAT for hospitality businesses. Tourism businesses need the UK Treasury to retain the VAT rate at 12.5 per cent. The Scottish Government and the Parliament have supported that as well. We will wait and see what the Chancellor of the Exchequer says in his statement tomorrow, but let us hope that the UK Government will do that.

Only last week, the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions said that tourism venues were struggling to cope with the lack of overseas visitors. Let us hope that that changes this summer. In the past couple of years, people have been avoiding indoor venues and tourist attractions as well as avoiding international travel. Now that restrictions have eased again, I hope that the situation will continue to improve this summer.

The Covid-19 business support and continuity tourism fund has been important. Through that, VisitScotland was allocated nearly £29 million, with £9 million going to tourism businesses. That went down particularly well with the Scottish Tourism Alliance.

Last week, I attended a lunch hosted by the Scottish Tourism Alliance. The sector has been through a hard time, but the businesses and organisations represented at the event were very positive and enthusiastic about the future. Connectivity was a word that I heard many times, not only in the sense of travel but with reference to the various sectors in the industry working together.

Sectors such as our leading visitor attractions, our conference facilities such as the Edinburgh International Conference Centre and the Scottish Event Campus, which are attracting business tourism, and our growing agritourism offering, which has the ambition of doubling the sector’s value to £1 billion, all work well together, and we need to harness that. Alongside the area attracting visitors to our wondrous scenery and attracting day visitors, our events industry is also growing.

We can all play our part in helping our tourism industry to recover from the pandemic. The benefits from the industry are endless. I join members in supporting our tourism industry and championing the successful businesses that we have throughout Scotland.

I call Claire Baker, who joins us remotely.

Claire Baker (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Lab) Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M2633E333P822C2390525 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

I apologise that I cannot be in the chamber this afternoon.

I thank Evelyn Tweed for securing the debate. Over the years, the Scottish Parliament has engaged with Scottish tourism month, often with a debate like this. It can be a time for members to highlight their regions, encourage visitors and celebrate local businesses and festivals. However this year, although members might wish to do that, we have to recognise and respond to the significant challenges that tourism has faced during the pandemic and the uncertain and long road to recovery that the industry faces.

We saw a degree of recovery for the sector last summer as UK visitors increased and people holidayed at home. However, although restrictions are easing and there is potential for growth, that activity did not compensate for the losses experienced and the coming months will be challenging.

Last week, it was a pleasure to attend the Scottish tourism month business leaders lunch. The speeches at that event were focused on recovery and were positive about the sector’s contribution to our economy, jobs and community investment, but there were also words of caution and concern. The impact of leaving the European Union and ending freedom of movement is contributing to labour shortages in certain areas, including tourism and hospitality. Combined with the pandemic, which led to many people returning home, that means that there is an acute shortage of workers.

The Economy and Fair Work Committee has recently undertaken work on supply chains. Just as the supply chains appeared to be starting to ease as global trade recovered from the pandemic, the war in Ukraine—which we are all watching with horror and about which we are all experiencing uncertainty and unrest—began to contribute to rising costs, which all businesses and households have to deal with. It also threatens food security, and that has the potential to impact on our food and drink sector, which is integral to tourism. Although some of those pressures appear far away from us just now, the situation is unpredictable.

In the face of that turmoil, the Scottish tourism sector is trying to reopen and recover, but most experts do not expect a full recovery until 2024 or later. The sector has relied on overseas visitors because, although UK tourists are good news and were crucial to sustaining the sector during the pandemic, they do not typically spend as much as overseas visitors or stay as long. Travel restrictions are easing, but the pandemic is still active around the globe. The Economist Intelligence Unit predicts “a shaky recovery” for tourism and says:

“Tourism has endured a terrible pandemic, and the bad news is that 2022 will only bring a partial recovery. Borders are reopening, but international travel will still be difficult. Compliance with climate-change regulations, as well as higher fuel prices and wages, will also push up air-travel costs in 2022.”

As well as concluding that the Scottish Government’s support for Prestwick airport

“ensured there is not a level playing field across airports in Scotland’,

yesterday’s “Airports in Scotland” report from the Scottish Affairs Committee argues that differing Covid travel rules to other parts of the UK damaged the financial stability of Scottish airports, and calls for a UK recovery plan for airports.

The Scottish tourism recovery task force was established to provide a strategic approach to recovery that would take the lead from business. Although phase 1 of the recovery plan was funded, there is as yet no financial support for the delivery of phase 2 and, although the Government agrees with the importance of phase 2, that was not included in the 2022-23 budget. The Economy and Fair Work Committee has expressed concerns over the lack of financial support and is urging the Government to explore other options for support.

I asked the First Minister about that at the recent Conveners Group meeting. She emphasised the importance of confidence for the recovery of the sector, but it also needs investment. There needs to be a recognition of the supply chain businesses that are connected to tourism. If a large hotel chain is facing financial difficulties, that impacts on its laundry service, catering suppliers, taxi firms and tour operators. The self-catering sector, which is still concerned about the impact of new regulations, must be valued as a generator of local businesses, because they are all interdependent.

The spring statement is due tomorrow, and UKHospitality and others in the sector are calling on the chancellor to continue with the VAT cut. To increase VAT at this point risks nipping the shoots of recovery in the bud and, as other costs rise, we all need to do all we can to support a future for Scottish tourism.

The final speaker in the open debate is Emma Harper.

Emma Harper (South Scotland) (SNP) Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M5771E345P834C2390527 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

I congratulate my colleague Evelyn Tweed on securing the debate and I welcome the opportunity to speak.

The pandemic has been awful for us all and it has hit the tourism industry very hard. I thank the Scottish Government for the financial support that has been provided so far. In addition to Scottish tourism month’s aims to “engage, connect and inspire”, it is really important for our tourism industry to aim for recovery, rebirth and renewal.

As a representative of Scotland’s bonniest regions, the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway in the south of Scotland, I am proud to shine a light on the sooth. The beautiful scenery and the world-class food and drink are fantastic, and the outdoor pursuits and our enormous contribution to Scotland’s national environment are really important.

The Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway have something for everyone, including forest and family holidays, historic abbeys and castles, distilleries, cycle trails, water sports and spa retreats, as my colleague Christine Grahame also mentioned. With miles of stunning coastline, rolling hills and beautiful forest, there is no better place to escape to, and history lovers can follow in the footsteps of Robert the Bruce, Walter Scott and our national bard Robert Burns.

People can also explore the many wonderful ruined abbeys that are dotted all across South Scotland, from Sweetheart abbey to the world-famous Melrose abbey. The south of Scotland also boasts some great gardens, such as Logan botanic garden. Located on the south-western tip of Scotland, it is warmed by the gulf stream and is a place of tropical beauty, with many plants that normally grow in antipodean countries.

We noo have world-class whisky, gin and rum distilleries as well, including Annandale, Bladnoch, Crafty, Ninefold, Oro, Borders, Selkirk, Dark Art and the Moffat distillery, which is still under construction.

As part of the Queen’s platinum jubilee celebrations, Dumfries has applied to be recognised as a city. When Perth, Stirling and Inverness received city status, they went from strength to strength—economically, socially and culturally—and attracted people and lots of new investment to their areas. If Dumfries receives city status, the town and our whole region could benefit similarly. The south really is Scotland’s adventure playground.

Siobhian Brown (Ayr) (SNP)

Will Emma Harper join me in applauding the great work that is being done in South Ayrshire Council with the launch of the Destination South Ayrshire tourism website?

I will give Emma Harper time back for the intervention.

Emma Harper Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M5771E345P834C2390530 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

Thank you, Presiding Officer.

I thank Siobhian Brown for raising that issue. I am aware of what has been launched in South Ayrshire, and I welcome it. I thank her for making that intervention so that we can highlight that.

In addition to the cycle routes at Glentress, which Christine Grahame talked about, there are other 7stanes cycle routes in Dumfries and Galloway and the Borders. The award-winning 7stanes mountain biking trails provide among the best mountain biking that is available in Scotland.

We have the southern upland way, which is Scotland’s only official coast-to-coast long-distance footpath, and which runs from the Atlantic Ocean to the North Sea—from Portpatrick on the west coast to Cove on the east coast—and we have the Galloway international dark sky park, which has been named a gold-tier park as a result of its breathtaking and rare stargazing conditions. We also have the Galloway and southern Ayrshire United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization biosphere, which is the first UNESCO biosphere in Scotland and part of a family of 700 biospheres around the world.

Those are all fantastic resources. They really help to put South Scotland on the map, and they are all hugely important to Scotland’s economy. However, more can be done.

Stranraer Water Sports Association is involved in the development of Stranraer waterfront. Loch Ryan is a beautiful and peaceful loch, and there are huge opportunities in its potential for tourism development.

I pay tribute to the work of the South of Scotland Destination Alliance, South of Scotland Enterprise, VisitScotland Dumfries and Galloway, Scottish Borders Council and the many organisations that work to promote tourism across the south, and I ask the minister to commit to do all he can to ensure that South Scotland is promoted as a world-class tourism destination as we recover from the pandemic.

The Minister for Public Finance, Planning and Community Wealth (Tom Arthur) Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M5868E431P767C2390531 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

I congratulate Evelyn Tweed on securing what has been an excellent debate. Indeed, the theme of “engage, connect and inspire” is apt for the contributions to the debate. They have all been engaging, they have all connected us with a sense of place in the various locations around Scotland, and they have certainly all been inspiring.

Evelyn Tweed was absolutely right to speak about brand Scotland and to recognise Scottish tourism as an “economic and social powerhouse”. In my later remarks, I will touch on some of the economic support that the Government has been providing. However, Evelyn Tweed was also absolutely correct to raise sustainability issues.

I draw the Parliament’s attention to the support that has been provided, including our £15.2 million rural tourism infrastructure fund. Sixty-six projects have been awarded funding since 2018. There is also the work that the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and the Economy is undertaking in leading the visitor management steering group, and there was the recent announcement of an additional £3.9 million to support more than 200 new countryside ranger posts in this summer season. I am sure that that will be very welcome.

I will try to touch on as many members’ contributions as possible.

Paul McLennan and Willie Coffey spoke about wellness and reminded us of the very challenging experiences and the lack of opportunities that we all faced when restrictions were in place during the pandemic. Evelyn Tweed eloquently described some of her experiences of tourism and staycations in her area. I think that we all welcome the opportunity to travel a bit further afield now.

Mr Coffey spoke about some of the attractions in his area. I will give him Bruce and Burns but, as the MSP for Elderslie, I am not going to cede ground as far as William Wallace is concerned.

Christine Grahame gave us a fantastic tour of her constituency. I very much look forward to being further educated by her in due course.

Christine Grahame rose—

I am certainly happy to give way to Christine Grahame. I feel that I am about to be educated.

Christine Grahame Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M1756E451P787C2390533 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

It is fatal to turn around and look at me, because I will intervene.

I invite the minister to liaise with the Minister for Transport to pursue integrated ticketing for trains, buses and local attractions. I am going to bang on about that until something happens. While he and his Cabinet colleagues are at it, I invite them to trial that across the Borders to see how good it is.

Tom Arthur Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M5868E431P767C2390534 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

I will ensure that Ms Grahame’s request is suitably conveyed to the Minister for Transport. I very much look forward to visiting Ms Grahame’s constituency in due course.

I was heartened to hear Ms Grahame’s reference to a family connection in relation to Abbotsford house. Genealogical references have been sorely missing from the chamber since the retirement of our dear friend Stewart Stevenson.

Emma Harper made a powerful contribution that championed the south of Scotland. I am sure that she is aware of the value that we place on the south of Scotland. We passed legislation to create South of Scotland Enterprise in the previous parliamentary session, and there is our support for the Borderlands deal. The south of Scotland could have no greater champion than Emma Harper, and I know that, in her position, she will continue to champion the area throughout this parliamentary session.

Sharon Dowey was absolutely correct to recognise the immense efforts of the tourism sector over the past two years. Christine Grahame touched on the importance of the furlough scheme. Claire Baker touched on the economic impact that tourism has faced and, crucially, she stressed the importance of overseas visitors. I completely recognise the point that Sharon Dowey made: we want to encourage as many people from across the UK and, more broadly, from Ireland to visit Scotland. I also recognise the very important contribution that visitors from overseas make.

As has been touched on, the tourism sector is a key part of Scotland’s economy. In 2019, day and overnight visitors spent almost £11.6 billion in Scotland. Before the pandemic, the tourism sector contributed £4.5 billion in gross value added to Scotland’s economy—about 3 per cent of total GVA. It also employed 229,000 people, which is almost 9 per cent of employment in Scotland, or one in every 11 jobs.

The pandemic and the measures that were necessary to contain the virus have had a profound impact on the sector. For instance, in May 2020, GDP in the accommodation and food services sector, which comprises a large part of our tourism sector, was almost 84 per cent below its pre-pandemic level—in comparison, GDP in the economy overall was 21 per cent below its pre-pandemic level. By December last year, GDP in the sector was still almost 13 per cent below February 2020 levels.

Although restrictions have been lifted and conditions are improving, it is important to recognise that the sector, particularly those parts that rely on international visitors, is still recovering from that shock. It is important that we continue to build confidence in those markets and that we let people know that Scotland will welcome them.

We have already taken steps to start that process. Recognising that we have to build consumer demand, we commenced an international marketing campaign in 2021 as part of our phase 1 tourism recovery programme. We hope to see the results of that campaign in the 2022 season.

Phase 1 of our tourism recovery programme supported nine other projects, with up to £25 million set aside for them. Some of the projects are now complete, and some are on-going. One particular highlight was our days out incentive fund, which provided £1.57 million to businesses to offer up to 50 per cent off subsidised tickets for local attractions. The scheme was designed to encourage more visits in the off season, and more than 140 attractions signed up.

It is our sincere hope that the recovery programme will support a strong bounce back for the tourism and hospitality sector over the next few years. It will not only help the sector to recover but help us to deliver better on Scotland outlook 2030—the national tourism strategy—which has not been fully realised in light of the pandemic. The recovery programme will help to shape our approach to supporting the sector’s growth through the new national strategy for economic transformation. We will therefore continue to work with the industry and key partners as we consider how best to support the 13 proposals that were put forward for phase 2 of the programme.

Previously, tourism has been a key sector for supporting employment, particularly in rural areas, as has been touched on in the debate. Before the pandemic, tourism represented a larger portion of employment in rural areas than it did in Scotland’s economy overall. For example, in 2019, tourism employment accounted for about 17 per cent of the workforce in Argyll and Bute, 15 per cent in the Highlands and 11 per cent in Edinburgh, so it is clear that tourism is helping our rural economies to thrive.

The sector not only is valuable to the economy but has the potential to support important Government policies. For example, it is estimated that 24 per cent of children were living in relative poverty after housing costs in 2017 to 2020. Consequently, a huge number of families in Scotland never experience even a short break. Therefore, our ScotSpirit holiday scheme, which was one of our phase 1 recovery measures, involves the sector working with charity partners to provide short breaks to low-income families, disadvantaged young people and unpaid carers. Although the trips are supported through Scottish Government funding, it is important to have good collaboration with the sector, which can support the families when they visit.

Although addressing climate change will create challenges for the sector, tourism also has the potential to support our climate change targets. Our destination net zero programme therefore aims to support Scotland’s tourism sector to transition to a low-carbon future through globally recognised leadership. Not only is that the right thing to do but, with consumers now being much more conscious of their carbon footprint, it is important that we offer low-carbon, guilt-free experiences. Our Scandinavian neighbours already pride themselves on doing that, and their tourism economies remain strong.

It is important to recognise that the sector has experienced challenges in restarting after the pandemic. Recent data from the business insights and conditions survey indicates that 48 per cent of businesses in the accommodation and food services sector were experiencing shortages of workers. In comparison, 37.5 per cent of businesses with more than 10 employees in the economy overall were experiencing such shortages.

Historically, non-UK nationals have been a critical part of the workforce. In 2019, 16 per cent of the workforce was made up of non-UK nationals—that is almost double the Scottish average—but visa requirements are now making it challenging to recruit from that pool of able and willing candidates.

Unfortunately, in 2019, more than half of employees working in the sustainable tourism sector—53.3 per cent—were paid less than the real living wage. Although a commitment to paying the living wage might go some way towards making jobs more appealing, there are sometimes other contributing factors, such as demanding hours, a perceived lack of opportunity for career progression and the sector being seen as offering unstable employment following the pandemic. We recognise all of those challenges and are committed to working with the industry and the UK Government as we seek to address them.

Although we have come some way since the initial lockdown in March 2020, the industry unfortunately continues to report low consumer confidence in visiting local attractions, so let me conclude by picking up on a point that Sharon Dowey made eloquently. As elected representatives, we have an opportunity to lead by example, by demonstrating that we believe it to be safe to visit these places once more. Scottish tourism month affords us an opportunity not just to celebrate achievements but to publicise our many local attractions.

As others have done, I encourage all members to visit their constituency’s attractions, to listen to the experiences of the operators and to reassure their constituents that the Scottish Government believes that it is safe to, once again, be out and about for leisure purposes. With about 80 per cent of our overnight visitors coming from within the UK, our example is bound to make a difference in building local confidence.

Again, I thank Evelyn Tweed for securing the debate. In Scottish tourism month 2022, let us celebrate the very best that our sector has to offer. We have shown that we can be resilient; it is now time to flourish once more.

The Deputy Presiding Officer Share Copy Link to Clipboard https://www.parliament.scot%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fsearch-what-was-said-in-parliament%2fchamber-and-committees%2fofficial-report%2fwhat-was-said-in-parliament%2fmeeting-of-parliament-22-03-2022%3fmeeting%3d13658%26iob%3d123961%23orscontributions_M3896E381P717C2390535 Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on X Share on Pinterest Share on Email

Thank you very much, minister.

In the interests of pre-empting a point of order, I point out that Willie Coffey has said in the BlueJeans chat function that Wallace was born in Ayrshire, that Elderslie did not exist in the middle ages and that Ellerslie, which is in Ayrshire, did. I am sure that the battle between the minister and Mr Coffey is set to rage for the remainder of the session.

That concludes the debate.

Back to Official Report: search what was said in Parliament

Edinburgh Tourism Action Group

Scottish Tourism Month

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The aim of Scottish Tourism Month is to engage, connect and inspire all of Scotland’s tourism businesses and organisations, and of course to celebrate the enormous contribution of our tourism industry to Scotland’s economy.

There are a number of events taking place throughout the month which will deliver insights, inspiration and info on latest tourism trends to support our industry as we move through recovery.

Find out more about the full programme of events

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The Programme – Day 1

Day one: tuesday 12 th march.

*Details, including timings and speakers, are subject to change*

10:00 – 11:00HRS

Registration, exhibition & networking, 11:00 – 11:10hrs, welcome & what to expect.

MARC CROTHALL MBE Chief Executive Scottish Tourism Alliance | Conference Host

FIONA CAMPBELL Chief Executive Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers | Conference Host

MICHAEL GOLDING Chief Executive Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions | Conference Host

11:10 – 11:25HRS

Ministerial address.

RICHARD LOCHHEAD MSP Minister for Small Business, Innovation, Tourism and Trade Scottish Government

11:25 – 12:45HRS

Signature session 1, what’s on the horizon & what do we need to know | sponsored by booking.com, session schedule & information.

• Scottish and UK Government Budgets announced, thoughts on what’s next for our economy, hospitality, tourism, and doing business. Sebastian Burnside
• Booking patterns, tourism trends and consumer insights David Edwards, Jim Eccleston, Ryan Pearson, Alan Bulloch
• Discussion panel session moderator Chris Greenwood

Session Sponsored by Booking.com

SEBASTIAN BURNSIDE Chief Economist NatWest Group | Royal Bank of Scotland

DAVID EDWARDS Managing Director Scattered Clouds

JIM ECCLESTON Managing Partner 56 Degree Insight

CHRIS GREENWOOD Senior Research Fellow Moffat Centre for Travel

RYAN PEARSON Regional Manager UK & Ireland Booking.com

ALAN BULLOCH Marketing Team Manager Booking.com

12:45 – 13:30HRS

Signature session 2 | sponsored by transatlantic translations group, responding to the opportunity.

• Marketing Scotland and the UK to the world! Cat Leaver and Emma Wilkinson

Session Sponsored by Transatlantic Translations Group

CAT LEAVER Head of Brand & Global Marketing VisitScotland

EMMA WILKINSON Deputy Director of Global Marketing VisitBritain

13:30 – 14:30HRS

Lunch, exhibition & networking | sponsored by ags airports, 14:30 – 16:00hrs, signature session 3, being brave, becoming the best & staying the best.

The leaders of three of Scotland’s award-winning businesses share their secrets for driving their ongoing success.

• Cromlix Barry Makin & Emily Shields
• Camera Obscura & The World of Illusions Andrew Johnson
• The Macallan Estate Stuart Cassells
• Signature Session Moderator Michael Golding, ASVA

STUART CASSELLS General Manager The Macallan Estate

BARRY MAKIN General Manager Cromlix Hotel

EMILY SHIELDS Head of Sales & Marketing Cromlix Hotel

ANDREW JOHNSON General Manager Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

16:00 – 16:35HRS

Afternoon break, exhibition & networking, 16:35 – 17:55hrs, signature session 4, a taste of scotland.

Our national food tourism ambitions Fiona Richmond

Food tourism ambassador round up panel discussion Jemma Reid, Craig Wilson, Laura Wyness, Sam Faircliff

Scotland’s very own ‘Hebridean Baker’ Coinneach MacLeod

Shiprow Village  Keith Martin

Signature Session Moderator: Marc Crothall MBE, STA

An invitation to unwind in The Ivy Lody in Shiprow Village. Enjoy music, drinks, and light bites courtesy of the Aber deen Douglas Hotel, Tennent’s and NorthLink Ferries*.

*Delegates wishing to have something more substantial to eat will be able to order from the Aberdam or the Shipyard Street Food outlet menus and have their meal delivered to their table in The Ivy Lodge.

ABERDAM MENU

SHIPYARD STREET FOOD MENU

JEMMA REID Project Manager Scotland Food & Drink

FIONA RICHMOND Head of Regional Food Scotland Food & Drink

COINNEACH MACLEOD The Hebridean Baker Author | Entrepreneur

LAURA WYNESS Director Nutrition Research and Communications

CRAIG WILSON ‘The Kilted Chef’ Eat on the Green

SAM FAIRCLIFF Managing Director Cairngorm Brewery

KEITH MARTIN Development and Operations Manager Shiprow Village

17:55 – 18:00HRS

Signature conference day one close, 18:00 – 19:00hrs, drinks reception and networking sponsored by scotland food & drink.

Enjoy a well-earned drink from a local supplier before you head off.

20:00 – 23:30HRS

Informal social gathering .

Time to unwind and party with friends, colleagues and new connections in The Ivy Lodge, Shiprow Village. With thanks to Tennent’s and NorthLink Ferries for their support.

Scotland’s tourism stars celebrated at Perthshire holiday park

MSP Murdo Fraser helped fly the flag for Scotland's tourism industry this week when he visited a popular Crieff holiday park during Scottish Tourism Month note-0.

Mr Fraser was at Braidhaugh Holiday Park which sits alongside the River Earn and takes a special pride in its work to help protect the area’s rich and varied wildlife.

The MSP, who represents the Mid Scotland and Fife region, was a guest of Largo Leisure which owns six highly regarded holiday parks in Scotland.

He was met by group operations director Alison Watson who took Mr Fraser on a tour of the park’s grounds with the company’s Steven Willett and Joseph Comrie.

On the itinerary was a secluded area of the park on which 14 new luxury holiday homes are being sited as part of the company’s continuing investment in its guest facilities and accommodation.

The 50-plus pitches in total on the park also include top-end glamping pods with fire-pits, plus facilities for campers and the owners of touring caravans and motorhomes.

There are also holiday homes to own, and which can be used for breaks and longer stays throughout the four seasons, and are popular with families from both sides of the Scottish border.

David Bellamy Conservation scheme

Alison Watson told Mr Fraser how Braidhaugh worked closely with the David Bellamy Conservation scheme to help sustain the many animal, bird and plant species in its grounds.

The park’s work includes the planting of native trees and hedgerows to provide wildlife habitats, and maintaining areas of wild flowers on which honey bees and butterflies can forage.

Mr Fraser, a former deputy leader of the Scottish Conservative party, was also shown the park’s five-star amenity block with power showers, and its popular Riverside Café.

Alison Watson said that she and the park’s team were delighted that their MSP was able to take time out to celebrate Scottish Tourism Month at Braidhaugh.

“Murdo Fraser clearly recognises the importance of tourism to rural Scotland, and is aware of the many challenges as well as opportunities faced by businesses such as ours,” she said.

“I know that many other businesses in the Crieff area benefit from the spending of our guests, and which in turn supports the jobs they provide – and we are very proud of this.

“Interest in the type of away-from-it-all holidays we provide is extremely strong, and we are grateful for the backing and encouragement of our MSP," added Alison.

Mr Fraser commented: “I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Braidhaugh Holiday Park. Tourism is vital to the Perthshire and Scottish economy and it is important that is supported.

“Braidhaugh Holiday Park plays a role in helping our tourism industry in Perthshire,” he added.

Scottish Tourism Month is designed to put the spotlight on the country’s hospitality and tourism industries, and the way in which they sustain rural economies.

Mr Fraser paid his visit to the park during March’s Scottish Tourism Month which is supported by the British Holiday & Home Parks Association of which Braidhaugh is a member.

According to a recent independent economic survey, said Alison, the parks sector to which Braidhaugh belongs generates just over £991 million in visitor expenditure each year in Scotland, and supports almost 18,500 FTE jobs.

There is more information about Braidhaugh Holiday Park at www.largoleisure.co.uk , and the findings of the recent economic survey can be read at www.ukcca.org.uk

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Best Time to Visit Scotland: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Home » Blog » Europe » United Kingdom » Best Time to Visit Scotland: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Scotland makes a great place to travel for jaw-dropping scenery, interesting history and a lively, welcoming culture. We put together this overview to help you determine the best time to visit Scotland and what you can expect during each season.

Best known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history, Scotland is a world-renowned travel destination, and yet still somehow a bit mysterious. An ideal destination for nature lovers, history buffs, fans of amazing architecture, whiskey enthusiasts and foodies alike, there are many, many reasons to visit Scotland.  

While it often gets overshadowed by neighboring countries from a tourism standpoint, Scotland is one place you should have on your bucket list! Plan your trip around touring medieval castles, explore the famous Scottish Highlands, or stick to the cities and sample the local whiskey culture. 

Still, there are certain times of year you’ll want to plan your trip around (and some you’ll want to avoid!) in order to have the best experience. Let’s get right into it and break down the best time to visit Scotland and what you can expect during your trip. 

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

The best time to visit Scotland overall is during the spring and fall, just outside of peak tourism season (summer) and when the weather is most pleasant. 

Both summer and winter have plenty to offer as well. So the best time to visit for you largely depends on what you want to see and do. 

Answer these questions to get started:

• Will you be visiting the Highlands or spending all your time in the city?
• Are you easily bothered by crowds?
• Do you mind a little rain?
• Do you prefer to spend your time outdoors in nature or exploring a new city?
• What is your budget for visiting Scotland?

Thinking about your answers to these questions is going to help you start to determine when to visit Scotland.

Trying to decide whether to visit Ireland or Scotland? You’re not alone! We’ve done both, and we have a whole guide where we compare the two and give our personal recommendation on the Scotland vs. Ireland debate.

Article contents

Our experience, scotland geography overview, weather in scotland, summer in scotland, fall in scotland, winter in scotland, spring in scotland.

• What to pack for Scotland

Overall BEST time to visit Scotland

Want a quick recommendation? Jump down to see our personal advice for the best time to visit Scotland. Plus, we’ll share what times of year we’d avoid visiting!

• Our Recommendation…

Psst! If you have time to discover more of the country, don’t miss these epic places to visit in Scotland .

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We traveled in Scotland for about 2 weeks and were able to visit lots of the highlights of the country, including most of the top places to visit.

We took our 2-week travels and created the perfect Scotland road trip itinerary.  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  2-week Scotland road trip itinerary  today!

We visited Scotland in September

When: early to late September (2022)

Our experience:

• We had some rain, but not a ton . Overall, we had great weather (considering it’s Scotand, and you should expect some rain no matter when you travel).
• Before our trip, I read miserable stories of midges (especially in the Isle of Skye), but we got lucky and didn’t notice any of these pesky bugs, as it seems they tend to die out in September.
• We coincidentally happened to be in Edinburgh for Queen Elizabeth’s funeral procession, so that day was very busy, but otherwise, we didn’t feel things were too crowded.
• Being that it was the end of peak tourism season when we arrived (just after Labor Day weekend), things weren’t crazy busy, but seasonal places were still open. It was the best of both worlds!
• Even though most things didn’t seem crowded , we were turned away at more than one campground where we hadn’t made reservations. (Lots of Scots camping!) We’d recommend planning your campgrounds and booking them at least a few days in advance (or further ahead if you’re traveling in the summer).

Would we recommend visiting Scotland in September? 

Yes! We had good weather overall, and didn’t have peak season (or Fringe Festival) crowds, making it a great month for a campervan trip.

Scotland may be fairly small, but there’s no shortage of geographical diversity. The country spans across the northern one-third of Great Britain and includes nearly 800 islands, only 130 of which are inhabited! 

Scotland can be divided into three distinct regions: the northern Highlands, the southern Uplands, and the central Lowlands. 

The Highlands in the north are made up of rugged yet still lush mountainous topography that form some of the most picturesque landscapes in the world. This vast area, including the islands off the northern coast, encompasses about half of Scotland’s total land mass. 

Sapphire blue lochs (lakes) and narrow inlets dot the landscape, adding stunning character to the rugged peaks, glacier-carved valleys, and tiny islands. The Scottish Highlands are truly wild; it’s one of the least densely populated areas in all of Europe! 

The central Lowlands are home to both fertile farmland and almost all of Scotland’s larger cities. In fact, nearly 90% of the country’s population resides in the Lowlands. Both the capital city of Edinburgh and the largest city, Glasgow, are located here, along with several others.  

The rugged southern Uplands form Scotland’s 110-mile-long border with England. This area is primarily rural and agricultural, defined by picture-perfect gently rolling green hills. 

Scotland gets a bit of a bad rap when it comes to weather. While it does rain often (there’s a reason it’s so green!), the overall weather just might surprise you.

The weather in Scotland never really hits the extremes you’ll find in many other destinations (particularly in Europe). While you very well may experience all four seasons in the span of just a few hours (packing layers is key!), the heat is mild and the cold is usually bearable. Even in the height of summer, it rarely exceeds 80°F (27°C)  in most Scotland cities. 

Summer and winter in Scotland bring the most rainfall, while the spring and fall are surprisingly the driest seasons.  

Something unique to consider when you’re deciding on the best time to visit Scotland is daylight hours. Due to Scotland’s far northern latitude, summer days have up to 18 hours of daylight, but in the winter, that number drops to just seven or eight. 

Below you’ll find a break down of the average temps and rainfall in Scotland by month:

• Avg. Daily Temp: 44°F / 7°C 
• Typical Rainfall: 5.8 inches
• Daylight: 8 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 45°F / 7°C
• Typical Rainfall: 4.1 inches
• Daylight: 10 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 49°F / 9°C
• Typical Rainfall: 4.4 inches
• Daylight: 12 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 55°F / 13°C
• Typical Rainfall: 2.5 inches
• Daylight: 14 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 61°F / 16°C
• Typical Rainfall: 2.7 inches
• Daylight: 16 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 65°F / 18°C
• Typical Rainfall: 2.6 inches
• Daylight: 18 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 68°F / 20°C
• Typical Rainfall: 2.9 inches
• Daylight: 17 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 67°F / 19°C
• Typical Rainfall: 3.6 inches
• Daylight: 15 hours
• Avg. Daily Temp: 62°F / 17°C
• Daylight: 13 hours
• Typical Rainfall: 5.6 inches
• Typical Rainfall: 5.0 inches
• Avg. Daily Temp: 44°F / 7°C
• Typical Rainfall: 5.3 inches
• Daylight: 7 hours

Psst! Plan your trip with our round up of all the best things to do in Edinburgh , including the quintessential activities and some off the beaten path experiences you won’t want to miss!

Summer is definitely the high season in Scotland. Warmer temperatures bring lots of people out, both visitors and locals alike, hoping to take advantage of the warmer weather, longer days, and many fun things to do. 

Temperatures average in the upper 60s and low 70s (19-23°C) during the summer months throughout most of the country, with the exception of the Highlands and other high-elevation areas. 

The sun also rises as early as 3:00 or 4:00 a.m. (remember, Scotland is waaaaay up there!) in the summer and often doesn’t set until 11:00 p.m. Keep in mind these long, warmer days also coincide with one of the country’s wettest seasons — it may be warm and sunny, but also pouring rain!

In addition to warm weather, many consider summer the best time to visit Scotland because of all the festivals and events. In August, Edinburgh plays host to the Fringe Festival , the largest arts festival in the world! 

Best places to visit during summer in Scotland

• Edinburgh for festivals, buzzy nightlife, and tons of Medieval history
• Glasgow makes a great summertime basecamp for experiencing a little of everything Scotland has to offer, with a location close to both the coast and the Highlands
• Head to Outer Hebrides for the beaches
• Chase epic outdoor adventures in Isle of Skye and the Highlands
• St. Andrews to play a round of golf at one of the most iconic courses in the world
• Stirling offers a great mix of the Lowlands and Highlands culture

Best things to do during summer in Scotland

• Check out The Fringe Festival, held over multiple weeks in August
• Get a unique perspective of Scotland’s rugged coast with a guided sea kayaking tour (fun fact: Scotland is home to 10% of Europe’s entire coastline!)
• Scotland is the birthplace of golf, so experience the sport in its true element by playing a round of golf at one of the country’s 550+ courses!
• Explore the many stunning lochs. Who knows, maybe you’ll be lucky enough to spot the real-life Nessie!
• Catch some very traditional (and very unique!) sports at the famous Highland Games. Events are held throughout the country from May through August.

Fall in Scotland brings a drop in both temperatures and the number of tourists. There are still plenty of activities to do and places to explore before the last of the warm weather says goodbye for winter, so fall is one of the best times to visit Scotland. 

You’ll see temperatures around the low 60s (16-18°C) throughout most of fall, so it’s a perfect time to get outside and enjoy this country’s spectacular nature. 

In late October, the days start to become noticeably shorter, with 10-13 hours of daily sunlight. While those are still nice long days, it gets a little easier to keep a normal sleep schedule without losing out on any exploration time. 

As the temperatures drop, the fall foliage begins to put on an impressive show, creating a photographers’ paradise — especially in the Highlands. The grass on the Moors gradually begins to fade to red and the trees come alive with shades of yellow, red, and orange. 

Scotland sees quite a bit of rain (and wind!) during the fall, particularly in October and November, but that also means the many amazing waterfalls are at their peak flow. And cooler temperatures also mercifully drive away the infamous midges and other biting insects that tend to swarm during the warmer months. 

Important Note: One thing to be aware of when visiting Scotland in the fall is that many popular tourist attractions shut down for the winter season in early November. 

Best places to visit during fall in Scotland

• The Highlands for unforgettable leaf-peeping in the most dramatic setting
• Edinburgh’s many museums and historical sites have notably fewer crowds in the fall
• Eat your way through Glasgow, one of the best cities for traditional Scottish comfort meals
• Glencoe National Nature Reserve shows off some of the most stunning Scottish nature
• Explore Aberdeenshire for the countless castles and history sans crowds

Best things to do during fall in Scotland

• Check out one of several literary festivals that take place around the country. One of the biggest, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, takes place in October, but there are many other niche festivals as well. 
• Hike to some waterfalls and enjoy the fall foliage. Some of the best and most accessible include Black Linn Falls, Falls of Foyers near famous Loch Ness, and Loup of Fintry. 
• Try out kitesurfing on the east coast
• Explore Scotland’s more than 1,500 castles
• Create your own Harry Potter-themed adventure, exploring several of the locations that inspired the books and movies. 

Winter in Scotland is the low season for tourism, but don’t let that dissuade you from visiting. If anything, it could be a reason to visit. You’ll find less-crowded attractions, cheaper accommodations, unique winter wonderland experiences, and surprisingly mild weather. 

Temperatures are definitely a little colder, but not unbearable by any means—usually between 35-45ºF (1-7ºC) in the cities and lower elevation areas. Scotland does experience a rainy winter, but again, the temperatures are mild enough that it’s manageable. It’s not freezing rain like you’re probably imagining (usually, anyway!). 

Daylight hours are short in Scotland during winter, with just 7-8 hours of daily sunlight. While this can make it feel like you’re racing against time to cram everything in, the shorter days offer more time to enjoy the night sky, plus potentially even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. 

Unique winter experiences make it one of the best times to visit Scotland for those who enjoy getting off the beaten path. There are opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, the traditional holiday markets are not to be missed, and in our opinion, winter is the best, liveliest time to explore Scotland’s cities. 

Best places to visit during winter in Scotland

• Edinburgh, for winter festivals and many (free!) museums
• Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow, for family-friendly attractions, the impressive botanical garden, and the country’s best shopping
• Cairngorms National Park, home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Scotland
• Road-trip to Highland Perthshire (one of the most underrated areas of Scotland!) for postcard-worthy scenery, several easy hikes, and charming Victorian towns
• Galloway Forest Park for top-notch stargazing and hopefully, the Northern Lights!

Best things to do during winter in Scotland

• Experience the magic of traditional European Christmas markets and winter festivals. Glasgow and Edinburgh both host amazing ones, and Edinburgh’s is one of the largest in the UK! 
• Celebrate St. Andrews Day with the locals. This annual holiday honors the Patron Saint of Scotland with mega celebrations of all things Scottish.
• Brave the cold late at night to stargaze and try to spot the Northern Lights when the sky is clear. 
• Keep yourself warm by sampling some of the finest Scotch (Scottish whiskey) at a distillery
• Hit the slopes at Cairngorm National Park for some skiing or snowboarding
• Make a stop to visit and interact with the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, a free-roaming herd of about 150 animals
• When you need rainy-day activities, enjoy the museums (many of which are totally free!) in the major cities without any crowds

Spring is somewhat similar to fall in terms of weather and crowds, making it what some consider the best time to visit Scotland. As winter fades and the warmer weather of spring emerges, the snow begins to melt, animals poke their heads out, and the countryside greens up and comes alive again. 

The weather changes rapidly over the course of spring in Scotland. In March, temperatures generally hover in the 40s and low 50s (4-15ºC), but by May, upper 70s (23+ºC) aren’t uncommon! 

Although rare, surprise spring snow storms do sneak in occasionally, so pack and dress accordingly, prepared for a bit of fresh powder. Interestingly, and unlike many other destinations, spring is one of Scotland’s driest seasons. 

The warmer temperatures and smaller crowds make spring a great time to explore while also saving on accommodations. Many seasonal businesses that close for winter reopen in late March or early April, which coincides perfectly with the days starting to get longer. 

Spring is also fantastic for road-tripping through Scotland . Don’t miss the iconic North Coast 500, a 516-mile drive that takes you through stunning landscapes and charming, quaint European villages. Everywhere you go, the hillsides will likely be blanketed in colorful daffodils and cherry blossoms!

April and May also bring several whiskey festivals to regions across the country. In fact, May is National Whisky Month in Scotland (whisky is a BIG deal here — Scots refer to it as the “water of life”). 

Kind of like “when in Rome…” When in Scotland, drink as the Scots do!

Best places to visit during spring in Scotland

• The city of Inverness, where the North Coast 500 begins
• Enjoy some unreal wildlife in the Shetland Isles
• Glasgow and Edinburgh have notably smaller crowds than during the peak months
• Experience the wonder of the cherry blossom bloom in Edinburgh
• The north coast Scottish isles, where you can experience dolphin- and whale-watching

Best things to do during spring in Scotland

• Catch the cherry blossom bloom in Edinburgh and wildflower season across the entire country by simply walking around or driving without a destination!
• Explore the country’s many castles and ruins
• Visit the botanical gardens in either Glasgow or Edinburgh to experience the gorgeous spring bloom
• Try out (or watch!) kitesurfing on the eastern coast
• Take a hike! Summit Ben Nevis in the Highlands, the highest mountain in all of the UK, or explore some shorter waterfall trails.
• Go island-hopping near Skye, the Outer Hebrides, or Shetland

Best time to visit Scotland in our opinion…

In our opinion, the best time to visit Scotland is during the spring or fall, with a few exceptions. 

Spring and fall, Scotland’s “shoulder seasons,” both have moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. Accommodations are slightly cheaper compared to summer and the swarms of midges are much less prevalent. 

In terms of weather, Scotland never gets either super hot or super cold (with the exception of the Highlands, of course), so most activities are available year-round. Spring and fall offer the opportunity for a more affordable trip with fewer crowds, but with access to many of the same experiences. 

Summer may be the best time to visit Scotland if you’re after the warmest months or want to experience one of the many outdoor festivals like The Fringe Festival in Edinburgh.  However, we’d avoid visiting Scotland during the month of August if you are not planning to attend the Fringe Festival as accommodation will be booked well in advance and prices sky-rocket!

Lastly, there are plenty of compelling reasons to visit Scotland in the winter. Clear skies provide jaw-droppingly beautiful views of the night sky and perhaps even a glimpse of the Northern Lights, and there’s truly nothing like European Christmas markets!

Overall, we recommend visiting in May or September for your trip to Scotland, so you’ll have the best chance for warmer, drier weather and fewer crowds. But keep in mind that there is truly plenty to enjoy year-round in this stunning, welcoming country.

What to pack for your trip to Scotland

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this free Scotland packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing check lists for everything from clothing and toiletries to electronics and extra gear you may consider packing if you plan to do some campervan travels.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in Scotland that you won’t find anywhere else!

Are you planning a trip to Scotland?

We have lots of resources on travel in Scotland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Scotland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Best Places to Visit in Scotland
• Best Campervan Hire in Scotland
• Insanely Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh
• Scotland Camping: Essential Tips + Best Campsites

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you!

Have you ever been to Scotland before? During what season did you visit and what was your experience like? Comment below and let us know!

Comments (2) on “ Best Time to Visit Scotland: When to Go & When to Avoid! ”

Well, the summer weather in 2023 isn’t quite so peachy as previous years (old fogeys like me might prefer the cooler, damper climate!) But you can still have a brilliant time exploring. We are particularly fond of Crinan which is a wee gem of a place. That gives us a good reason to have something to eat at the George Hotel, Inveraray on our way home.

We also love going to Dumfries House in Cumnock; we’ve taken quite a few visitors there now. I think the King (when still the Prince of Wales) was inspired to make a great resource for an area of Scotland which might not otherwise have attracted tourists. The house is amazing, the gardens spacious and well tended (it’s worth paying to go into the walled garden too) and we enjoy watching the arboretum starting to grow.

South west Scotland (well, I’m from Castle Douglas!) – is quite a different landscape to the Highlands. Also recommended as a great place to visit.

Can you tell I’m just itching to get exploring again!

Absolutely fantastic resource that you have created. We were there last 2 weeks of Aug, first two weeks of Sept this year. People said we had better than normal weather. We did a circle tour in a rented car (Arnold Clark) and used Airbnb. We used Tesco SIM cards which are cheaper than Airalo. We did last 2 weeks in Aug because the kids are back in school then. We have already booked the same dates for next year as we want to do all of the Outer Hebrides (we only did Lewis this year.) and more of the coast between Inverness and Aberdeen. Keep up the Great work! Thanks

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The Best Times to Visit Scotland for Good Weather, Fewer Crowds, and Lower Prices

Plan your Scotland trip based on what you want to do, see, and avoid.

Scotland may be a small country — about the size of South Carolina — but it offers an impressive variety of destinations and landscapes. Edinburgh, Glasgow, Loch Lomond, Loch Ness, Ben Nevis, Glen Coe, and the Isle of Skye are all must-sees for anyone who wants to experience the magic of Scotland. To get the most out of your trip, you'll want to make sure you visit at the most opportune time.

Scotland's seasons fall into three main categories:

• High Season: June to August
• Shoulder Seasons: April to May and September to October
• Low Season: November to March

Each of the Scottish seasons offers advantages and disadvantages, so deciding when to visit will depend on your priorities. Whether you're hoping for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, or more affordable prices, here are the best times to travel to Scotland .

Ellen Lindner/Travel+Leisure

Most Popular Time to Visit Scotland

A majority of travelers make their way to Scotland in the warmer months. Tourist season in Edinburgh ramps up in June and peaks in August, with several major festivals — including the Edinburgh Art Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe — happening throughout the month. The capital's summer temperatures rarely surpass 70 degrees, so traversing the hilly city is usually pleasant.

Visitors also descend on Scotland from late May to September to experience the Highland Games , a Scottish tradition dating back hundreds of years. Towns around the country host their own versions of the Games, usually in the form of a one-day event featuring traditional Scottish sports (like tug-of-war and the hammer throw), as well as food, music, and dancing. The Braemar Gathering, held in September, is one of the best-known events, with the British royal family making an appearance in the small town every year.

Outside of the summer months, the winter holiday season is one of the most popular times to visit Scotland. Celebrations of New Year's Eve — called Hogmanay by the Scots — are particularly raucous. In Edinburgh, Hogmanay festivities draw more than 70,000 visitors every year.

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

Best Times to Visit Scotland for Smaller Crowds

If you want to avoid the crowds on your Scottish vacation, consider traveling in the fall, winter, or spring. Most schools in the U.K. — much like in the U.S. — go on summer break in the months of July and August. By planning your trip outside of that period, you'll miss the throngs of local and foreign tourists whose travels are tied to their children's school schedules.

The Isle of Skye , with its rapidly increasing tourism profile, is a spot travelers would be especially smart to avoid in the busy summer months. Visiting in the off-season means lots more room to roam among the island's 600+ square miles. There are other advantages too, from increased odds of spotting a puffin (they're most common on Skye in early spring) to the views of stunning snow-capped mountains in the winter.

Best Times to Visit Scotland for Good Weather

Scotland — like the entire United Kingdom — isn't particularly known for its weather. More often than not, it's drizzly and a little dreary. When the weather shows off, though, there's nothing more remarkable than a sunrise peeping over a Scottish glen or the sun setting behind Edinburgh Castle .

To experience Scotland's best weather, you'll need to plan your trip at the right time — and have a bit of luck on your side. Temperatures are highest in the summer, but weather can be fair in the springtime, too. According to the Scottish tourism bureau , the period from March to May is the country's driest, and its temperatures rarely dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit — though they don't often climb above 55 degrees, either. Temperatures are similar in the fall, a season that's also known for stunning foliage. Scotland rarely sees extreme winter weather (particularly in southern cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow), but starting in November, you'll want to shift your schedule to account for shorter days — the winter sun can set as early as 4 p.m.

Best Times to Visit Scotland for Lower Prices

As temperatures drop, so does the number of tourists in Scotland — and, accordingly, the prices. If you want to save money, book your trip in the low season, from November to March. While some more fragile historical sites may close during this time due to weather concerns, there are plenty of other things to do, including skiing in the Cairngorms, curling up by a fireplace in a cozy boutique hotel (like The Fife Arms in Braemar), or exploring the Christmas markets in Edinburgh.

One exception to this rule, though, is the period directly surrounding the winter holidays. Since Christmas and New Year's are popular travel times in Scotland, deal-seeking visitors may want to avoid scheduling a trip during the final weeks of December or the first week of January.

Best Time to Explore the Highlands

To have the most sunlight and best weather, many people head to the Scottish Highlands in the summer, between May and September. Starting in October, the weather can be unpredictable — freezing temperatures, gale-force winds, and snowfall are all possible. That said, the snow-capped mountains are a sight to behold, so if you plan a Highlands road trip in the winter, pack a warm winter coat and make sure your rental car is properly equipped to handle any icy conditions.

Best Time to Visit to Avoid Midges

From May until September, travelers have a high chance of running into midges , especially in the Highlands. These flying, biting insects prefer wet, humid, and cloudy conditions and come out in full force in July and August. To avoid the midges, book your trip to Scotland between late September and early May.

Worst Times to Visit Scotland

The worst times to visit Scotland will depend, of course, on each traveler's preference. If your top priorities are avoiding big crowds and pesky midges, July and August are months you should miss. (The high prices that accompany this busy season can be another dissuading factor.) August is especially busy in Edinburgh, when a host of culture fests descend upon the capital, bringing millions of art lovers along with them. This is great for those who want to partake in the superb cultural offerings, but not so great if you want a quiet sightseeing trip.

If your main goal is optimal weather, meanwhile, the winter months should be avoided. With its dreary skies, short days, and chilly temperatures, the winter is best suited for visitors in search of cozy indoor pursuits, not (relative) sun and warmth.

To avoid extremes in both climate and crowd size, travelers should consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.

Related Articles

Scottish Tourism Month

05 March 2024

March is Scottish Tourism Month – an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the tourism and hospitality industry and its huge importance to Scotland’s economy.

The tourism and hospitality industry is vital in Scotland, supporting £1.7 billion of economic activity due in no small part to the skilled and dedicated people who are essential in creating a great visitor experience.

Although there are some positive signs of recovery in the air, a recent survey by the Fair Work Convention found that employers continue to face pressures around staffing, retention, and recruitment with almost three-quarters (71%) facing recruitment challenges and over half (53%) experiencing high levels of turnover.

The same survey found that employees were facing challenges around flexibility, predictability of hours and fairness in pay. With nearly half (48.1%) of all jobs in the sector being paid below the real Living Wage , we know that low pay is a persistent issue and something that requires significant focus from employers.

Living Wage accreditation is one of the ways in which employers can start to tackle recruitment challenges, while also providing staff with greater security around wages. With more than 200 accredited hospitality and tourism businesses in Scotland, we know what a difference this commitment can make in terms of motivation, retention, and business resilience.

Last week, Living Wage employer Camera Obscura & World of Illusions hosted Minister Richard Lochhead to mark the beginning of Scottish Tourism Month. The focus of the visit was to both celebrate the industry and speak about the importance of Fair Work. This Living Wage Scotland Industry Trailblazer award winner sums up the benefits of accreditation beautifully on their website :

“Being accredited as a Living Wage Employer strongly aligns with our belief in promoting good work practices and being a part of this movement is a positive action which greatly benefits our team. Our staff are our biggest asset, all working to delight our many visitors. Continuing to attract and retain the best, most creative, fun, diligent and committed staff is essential to the continued success of the attraction.”

Here at Living Wage Scotland we are celebrating Scottish Tourism Month by highlighting some of our favourite Living Wage tourist attractions of the past year. This was incredibly difficult with so many fabulous employers to choose from – you can find out more here We will also be attending the STA Scottish Tourism Month signature conference in Aberdeen and would love to chat with any employers who are exploring how accreditation might work for their business – so do reach out or come and chat with us in person at the conference!

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Data and analyses for tourism in Scotland

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VisitScotland

Visitors from the UK Our UK market represents a significant proportion of the visitors Scotland welcomes each year. Understanding more about who they are, how they behave and the preferences they have for their visits can offer a real advantage to those in the tourism industry.

International visitors Scotland’s tourism economy enjoys a healthy international market that includes a variety of well-established and emerging demographics. Those who flock from around the globe to enjoy Scotland’s world-class attractions and experiences make a huge contribution to the overall health of our industry – so it’s vital we have a clear understanding of them.

Accommodation The stats behind the stays - whether you’re looking for occupancy information on self-catering properties or caravans.

Industry barometer In partnership with local councils and destination organisations, VisitScotland have been inviting businesses to participate in our survey to capture tourism business performance in their regions.

VisitBritain

Inbound tourism performance in Britain A wealth of data, covering  inbound tourism trends , visits to  nations, regions, counties  and  towns  in Britain, as well as  popular activities  undertaken by visitors in Britain.

Scottish Household Survey 

Culture and heritage section

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