Tag: tourism

Forever Edinburgh unveils Resident Days celebrating Edinburgh locals

Forever Edinburgh has unveiled its 2026 Resident Days programme, building on the success of last year’s launch which saw over 1,000 EH postcode holders enjoy exclusive access to attractions, tours and experiences across the capital.

Following a strong response to the inaugural programme, Resident Days returns with an expanded calendar of themed moments throughout the year. Delivered in partnership with a wide range of Resident Rewards partners, the initiative continues to give back to the people who power Edinburgh’s visitor economy by offering exclusive deals for those who call the city home.

Resident Days will give Edinburgh residents exclusive rewards, including discounted access to a range of leisure, hospitality and cultural experiences across the city from almost 30 organisations. This is running alongside the Resident Rewards programme, which offers residents access to exclusive deals and discounts throughout the year.

The 2026 programme begins with World Heritage Day on Saturday 18 April, celebrating Edinburgh’s rich history and internationally recognised heritage.

Residents will be able to enjoy a range of exclusive offers including 2-for-1 tickets at The Royal Yacht Britannia, a discounted Three Bridges Cruise with Forth Boat Tours, 50 per cent off food at Canopy Kitchen & Courtyard and a special rate for a round of golf at Bruntsfield Links Golfing Society, encouraging locals to rediscover the stories, locations and experiences that have shaped Edinburgh’s heritage.

The themed days continue across the year, each shining a spotlight on different communities and interests:

  • Father’s Day – Sunday 21 June 2026
  • World Tourism Day – Sunday 27 September 2026
  • Silver Sunday – Sunday 04 October 2026
  • World Children’s Day – Friday 20 November 2026

Across the programme, residents can expect everything from discounted tours and trails to free exhibitions, exclusive entry to attractions, money off treatments, as well as food and drink deals.

Several participating businesses also boast strong accessibility credentials, with attractions such as Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, Edinburgh Bus Tours and The Royal Yacht Britannia offering accessible facilities and experiences, supporting the programme’s ambition to make participation as inclusive as possible.

Councillor Jane Meagher, Leader of the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Resident Days are an important way for us to recognise and thank the people who make Edinburgh what it is. Our residents support the local economy year-round, and this programme is about giving something meaningful back to them.

“By working in partnership with businesses across the city, we are able to offer accessible and affordable opportunities for people to explore attractions, try something new and spend quality time together. It is about ensuring that the benefits of our visitor economy are felt by the communities who live here.”

Casey Rust, Director of Marketing at The Royal Yacht Britannia said: “We are proud to support Resident Days and to support the programme for World Heritage Day. It is a brilliant opportunity to welcome local residents on board and celebrate the heritage experiences that make Edinburgh so special.

“Being part of Resident Days allows us to give something back to the local community while sharing the story of Britannia with people who live right here in the city. The response last year showed there is a real appetite for residents to rediscover their city, and we are excited to be part of that again.”

Full details of participating venues and how to claim rewards will be available on Forever Edinburgh’s dedicated Resident Day microsite:

www.edinburgh.org/residentrewards/residentrewarddays/

Local businesses interested in participating in upcoming Resident Days can contact the Forever Edinburgh team at visit@edinburgh.gov.uk

This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Agreeing Visitor Levy spend ‘is just the beginning’

Council Leader Jane Meagher sets out the many benefits the visitor levy will bring to Edinburgh, its residents and visitors:

We’re rightly proud that so many people want to visit and enjoy our historic and beautiful city – and of the significant benefit that tourism brings to our economy.

But with that popularity comes a cost: the pressure it places on our services and on the people who live and work here all year round.

We’ve long been aware of our responsibility to manage this pressure but, as the lowest funded local authority in Scotland, we had to find other ways of funding this.

I was delighted then that, having secured the powers to introduce a visitor levy for Edinburgh, we’ve now agreed the first round of spending programmes. This investment of nearly £100 million over the next three years will allow us to sustain and enhance our reputation as one of the most popular and enjoyable destinations in the world.  

As the first local authority in the UK to push ahead with a city-wide scheme, I know that other councils across the UK – together with the UK, Welsh and Northern Irish governments – are watching closely as they seek to develop similar schemes of their own. They should be encouraged by what they’re seeing.

Thanks to the funds generated from the Edinburgh Visitor Levy, as we now know it, we can transform our city into a cleaner, greener and more welcoming environment. We can invest more in our award-winning parks and greenspaces, doubling the number of park rangers and funding extra planting across the city.

We can help to put more police on our streets while new public toilets, upgraded bins and extra patrols will help to maintain Edinburgh’s streets, public spaces and public infrastructure to the high standard our residents and visitors expect.

We can also renew and restore attractions across Edinburgh, including bringing much-loved cultural venues like the Royal High School and Leith Theatre back into use for the first time in decades. 

We’ve listened to and taken account of the views of residents, the tourism industry and other stakeholders at every stage of the process – and I’m grateful to the many Council officers, Visitor Levy Advisory Forum members, businesses and residents for their valuable contributions and support.

This is just the beginning. As the scheme develops, we’ll continue to involve communities in spending decisions in their local areas – and the Forum will continue to help ensure the views of the city are taken into account over the next three years and beyond.

I’m sure, like me, they’re looking forward to seeing the many benefits the levy will bring to our city, our residents and our visitors.

Jane Meagher’s article first appeared in the Edinburgh Evening News

The Real Mary King’s Close celebrates another record-breaking year as visitor numbers continue to rise

VISITORS FROM 147 COUNTRIES FUEL RECORD YEAR

One of Edinburgh’s leading visitor attractions, The Real Mary King’s Close, has reported another record-breaking year after welcoming 296,726 guests in 2025, marking continued year-on-year growth and reinforcing its position as one of the Capital’s most popular experiences.

The latest figures represent an impressive 5% increase on 2024, when the attraction welcomed 282,525 visitors, making 2025 the third consecutive record year for The Close. Located beneath Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, the attraction continues to draw strong interest from both domestic and international audiences keen to explore the city’s hidden history.

Traditionally one of Edinburgh’s peak summer months, July saw 38,079 visitors undeterred by warmer weather, instead choosing to step below the Royal Mile to uncover Auld Reekie’s rich heritage, hidden streets, and stories from the city’s past.

Over the course of the year, The Real Mary King’s Close welcomed visitors from 147 countries, underlining its global appeal. International guests travelled from as far afield as the Åland Islands, Belize, French Polynesia, Kyrgyzstan, Mauritius, Namibia and Nepal, alongside key tourism markets in Europe, North America and Asia.

The visitor site’s reputation is further reflected in its online performance, now boasting over 5,780 reviews across Google and Tripadvisor, with 93% rated four stars or higher, positioning it among Edinburgh’s highest-rated cultural experiences.

Alongside its core offering, The Real Mary King’s Close continued to expand and diversify its programme in 2025, launching two new tours while seeing strong ongoing demand for its established special experiences. Introduced in April, Carnage and Contagion: The Plague Tour welcomed 574 guests; Coffee & Closes, in partnership with John’s Coffee House, attracted 884 guests in its first year.

These new additions sat alongside the continued success of specialist and limited-run experiences, which allow returning visitors the opportunity to delve into different facets of Scotland’s history, including the Dr Arnott Experience, which welcomed 3,043 guests, and four Underground Unlocked free-flow events that together welcomed 976 guests. 

Retail performance also remained strong, with historically inspired merchandise proving particularly popular. Best-selling items included the Plague Dr Shopper bag, with 5,363 units sold, and the Plague Ducktor, which sold 3,538 units during the year.

Paul Nixon, General Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close said: “Achieving another record-breaking year is a fantastic milestone and demonstrates the overwhelming appetite for immersive, high-quality historical experiences in our Capital City.  Our dedicated team welcomed nearly 300,000 guests in 2025, from 147 different countries.

“We are continuing to evolve our offering through new tours and experiences while staying true to what makes The Close distinctive – its powerful storytelling, authenticity and a deep connection to Edinburgh’s past. It’s so encouraging to see consistent growth across both the peak and shoulder seasons, and we’re excited to build on this momentum.”

For more information about The Real Mary King’s Close and bookings please visit: 

www.realmarykingsclose.com

Visitor Levy Amendment Bill published

Greater flexibility to design local schemes

New legislation has been published that will give councils more choice in how they design and apply a visitor levy to raise funds for local tourist services. 

While local authorities currently have the power to apply a charge on overnight stays based on a percentage of accommodation costs, the Visitor Levy (Amendment) (Scotland) Bill proposes giving councils additional powers to set the levy as a fixed amount.

If passed by Parliament, the legislation will also allow councils to set a range of fixed amounts, such as for different geographical locations, times of year or types of accommodation.

In addition, the Bill clarifies how accommodation providers should report to councils and how levies are applied to sales made through third parties such as travel agents.

Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee said: “When we introduced the original visitor levy legislation, we wanted to empower councils to implement a scheme that was right for their areas and easy to understand for local businesses.

“We worked closely with councils and tourism bodies when the original legislation was considered and passed by Parliament. These new proposals will give councils even more flexibility and provide clarity to businesses.

“We want to ensure visitor levies are an effective option for councils who choose to introduce them to boost investment in local economies and services.”

Fiona Campbell MBE, Chief Executive of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers and Vice Chair of Scottish Tourism Alliance Policy Group, said: “The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers warmly welcomes the introduction of the Scottish Government’s Visitor Levy (Amendment) Bill.

“The commitment to introduce much-needed legislative changes in the current parliamentary timetable is an important recognition of the urgency of the situation and the continuing complexities that a percentage-based model presents for Scotland’s valuable accommodation sector.

“If passed, this legislation will give local councils greater flexibility and choice by allowing them to set the levy as a fixed amount. This is a pragmatic change that industry has pushed hard for, and it also reflects a clear cross-party desire to ensure the visitor levy is fit for purpose, proportionate and workable in practice.

“We are heartened that the Scottish Government has listened to consistent, evidence-based concerns.

“We look forward to working constructively with the government and MSPs from all parties as the Bill progresses, to help deliver a levy that boosts local tourism investment in those areas that choose to take it forward, while supporting Scotland’s vital tourism economy.

“Given that change is coming, the sector would encourage local authorities, including those who have already formally consulted on a percentage-based levy, to seriously consider opting for a simpler, more workable fixed amount charge, which will have a less damaging impact on the accommodation businesses that are the lifeblood of our local communities.”

Extra Mile Club: VisitScotland partners with U.S. TV giant

Scotland is shining as the ultimate luxury destination in acclaimed travel competition series Extra Mile Club thanks to a major collaboration between VisitScotland and American television network NBC’s NBCULocal division.

The national tourism and events body has teamed up with one of America’s most-watched TV platforms and luxury travel network Global Travel Collection to spotlight Scotland as a destination where heritage, culture, and luxury blend for an unforgettable experience.

The show, which aired right after the hugely popular Saturday Night Live, features Scotland in two dedicated episodes, as two travel advisor teams from Global Travel Collection compete to create perfect Scottish itineraries for celebrity clients.

Olympic medallists and NBC commentators Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir are treated to the VIP treatment in Scotland after requesting their trip location following their Scottish experiences while starring on the U.S. version of The Traitors.

Supported by targeted advertising across NBC and Peacock throughout November and December, these episodes are a key component of VisitScotland’s wider autumn/winter drive to keep Scotland top of mind for American travellers.

With the U.S. being Scotland’s largest and most valuable international market, contributing millions to the visitor economy each year, this partnership was created with aim to bring even more U.S. visitors to Scotland. It shines a light on Scotland’s most luxurious places to stay and the extraordinary experiences to be enjoyed.

To help viewers turn inspiration into the trip of a lifetime, VisitScotland has created a bespoke itinerary based on the show’s highlights, now available on its website. From private castle tours and luxury spa stays to fragrance-making and curated shopping in Edinburgh, the itinerary mirrors the celebrity experiences seen on screen – making it easy for visitors to plan their own unforgettable Scottish adventure.

The episodes, filmed in autumn across several regions, were shaped with VisitScotland working closely with NBC and the Global Travel Collection to reflect U.S. visitor motivations. This collaboration is set to continue with the Global Travel Collection and the national tourism and events body now linked to bring more of Scotland to its luxury travel agent network.

The first episode introduced viewers to some of Scotland’s most luxurious experiences. Highlights of the trip, which were crafted by rival advisors Tom Ho and brother team Michael and Steven Lieberman, included a stay at, a jeep safari, Cameron House Hotel and Spa, a private tour of Inveraray Castle by the Duke of Argyll, a yoga session with Kilted Yoga’s Finlay Wilson and a rainbow-soaked cruise on Loch Lomond.

The second episode, which premiered on Saturday 20 December, featured a trip on the opulent Royal Scotsman train from Wemyss Bay station in Inverclyde, fragrance-making sessions at the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh to bespoke fashion creations by celebrated Scottish designer Siobhan Mackenzie.

The episodes premiered on US TV before being shared on YouTube with a bonus scene of Tara and Johnny being treated to an exclusive visit to Rosslyn Chapel in Midlothian.

In addition to the dedicated episodes, a recent edition of NBC’s Open House series features Andy Murray’s Cromlix Hotel. The segment is guided by wife Kim Murray, who oversaw its radical redesign a few years ago.

Vicki Miller, VisitScotland Chief Executive, said: “It has been incredibly exciting to partner with NBC and Global Travel Collection to bring Extra Mile Club to Scotland.

“The US is Scotland’s largest international visitor market in both volume and spend, contributing millions to our economy each year, with strong potential for continued growth.

“And Scotland offers so much to American visitors from our breathtaking landscapes and rich history to authentic connections with our people and culture.

“The show is also a unique way to showcase the work of travel advisors. They play a vital role in curating these bespoke journeys and remain an essential link to the US market. Our dedicated US travel trade team supports advisors with training, resources and both in-market and UK-based events to help them bring Scotland to life for their clients. This is complemented by our broader marketing, PR, and partnership activity to keep Scotland top of mind for US visitors.

“From iconic landmarks to bespoke adventures, we hope these episodes inspire even more Americans to plan their own Scottish adventure in 2026 and beyond where you will be guaranteed a warm welcome.”

Watch The Extra Mile Club Scotland episode 1

Watch the Extra Mile Club Scotland episode 2

Watch Open House Cromlix segment

PICTURES: VisitScotland

Industry survey sounds alarm on Scotland’s self-catering sector as confidence and bookings collapse

Scotland’s self-catering sector is sounding the alarm as new data from the ASSC Autumn Barometer Survey reveals a sharp fall in business confidence and a dramatic slump in forward bookings, with mounting fiscal pressures compounding industry challenges.

Drawing on responses from 444 self-caterers across Scotland, the bi-annual survey offers real-world insight into a sector facing a worrying collapse in demand and sentiment.

While occupancy levels in spring and summer 2025 showed some resilience, the outlook for winter 2025–26 is markedly weaker. Just 7% of operators reported stronger forward bookings, while almost half (47%) said winter bookings were worse or much worse than last year. Many described demand as having “dropped off a cliff” and the market as “dead.” Unsurprisingly, confidence has fallen sharply, with 43% pessimistic about the next 24 months.

The survey also highlights a series of structural and financial challenges pressing on self-catering businesses, all of which feed into dampened confidence:

  • The rising cost of doing business was cited as a moderate to major challenge by 91% of respondents;
  • Increasing regulatory pressures seen as an obstacle by 86%;
  • Visitor affordability and competitiveness concerns affected 87% of operators; and
  • Uncertainty around Scottish Government policy was viewed as a key concern by 79%.

The cumulative effect is squeezing profitability and leaving many businesses feeling stretched to the absolute limit, both operationally and personally.

76% report mental health and wellbeing impacts, with regulatory uncertainty cited as the leading cause of stress. Short-term let regulation remains one of the dominant issues, with 43% remaining in prolonged appeals or awaiting decisions regarding planning requirements.

Moreover, the sector remains heavily exposed to changes in Non-Domestic Rates (NDR) and the Small Business Bonus Scheme. That’s why last week, industry leaders wrote collectively to the Minister for Public Finance Ivan McKee, highlighting that the draft 2026 NDR revaluation posed a serious and immediate threat to the viability of thousands of businesses, with some facing eye-watering rises of 300%.

At First Minister’s Question Time, John Swinney noted he was “concerned” at developments and that it was being “pursued” by ministers.

The ASSC is calling for immediate action to protect self-caterers from such disproportionate increases, as well as a more balanced regulatory approach overall that recognises the realities facing local operators.

Fiona Campbell MBE, CEO of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers, said: “These figures are a powerful wake-up call.

“We are seeing confidence slip and forward bookings are alarmingly weak. Behind these numbers are real people working tirelessly to sustain Scotland’s vital tourism sector; and the strain is not only affecting balance sheets but also mental wellbeing.

“Operators are reaching the absolute limit of what they can absorb. Without swift intervention, perfectly viable businesses will be lost, while the damage done to local economies will be long lasting.”

Barometer-Survey-November-2025-Executive-Summary-FINALDownload

Edinburgh’s Scottish Thistle Awards national winners toast tourism triumph

A life-saving conference, climate conscious zoo, an inspiring festival, and a trailblazing up-and-comer have been crowned Scotland’s best at the country’s top tourism and events industry awards.

Attractions, events and individuals from the city received awards at the Scottish Thistle Awards national final at the Hilton Glasgow last night (20 November).

After triumphing at the Central & East Scotland Thistle Awards last month, finalists competed against their peers for a coveted national trophy and earning recognition across the country for their excellence in Scotland’s tourism industry.

For over 30 years, the Scottish Thistle Awards, this year with new headline sponsor Abbey: The Destination Experts, have showcased individual businesses, people and partnership working. They have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration and innovation within one of the country’s most important sectors. Past winners credit the awards with boosting their business, increasing enquiries and inspiring staff.

Delivered by VisitScotland, in partnership with regional awards programmes, the Scottish Thistle Awards combines five regional awards and a national final.

National winners from across the Capital are:

The 36th International Papillomavirus Conference 2024 at EICC which won Best Business Event. 

The conference welcomed over 1,600 delegates from across the globe in November 2024. It brought world leaders in science and healthcare to Scotland, the event advanced research, innovation, and collaboration in tackling HPV and related cancers. 

By raising awareness and boosting vaccination rates in schools and communities, its impact extended far beyond the conference centre. Leaving a legacy that will prevent cancer diagnoses, save lives, and inspire future progress.

Amanda Wrathall, Chief Executive, EICC, said: “Winning the Best Business Event Award at the Scottish Thistle Awards is a tremendous honour.

“IPVC 2024 in Edinburgh embodied the EICC’s vision of inspiring ideas that change the world, proving that business events can deliver impact well beyond the conference floor.

“By increasing HPV awareness and vaccination uptake, its legacy reaches into communities across the globe, a legacy that will prevent cancer diagnoses and save lives.

“This recognition underlines the transformative role of business events in shaping healthier, stronger futures.”

Edinburgh Zoo, who took home the Climate Action Award sponsored by Historic Scotland, which celebrates businesses making significant progress towards net zero.

Judges praised the popular attraction for its environmental sustainability practices and supportive work environment.

Ben Supple, Deputy Chief Executive, Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, said: “Everyone at Edinburgh Zoo is dedicated to protecting nature, tackling climate change and saving wildlife. 

“It is wonderful that the sustainability activities and innovations at the zoo have been recognised with the climate action award, including the installation of our new solar meadow.”

Edinburgh International Book Festival won the award for Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival, sponsored by STV. The category recognises the outstanding cultural events and festivals that are part of Scotland’s tourism offering.

The Edinburgh International Book Festival is a charity which celebrates and shares the power of writers, their ideas, and the words they craft to illuminate, challenge, and inspire.

Held in the heart of the city at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, each August it presents almost 700 events featuring writers and thinkers from around the world.

As well as children and families, young adults, adults, and schools’ programmes, the festival brings writers into community settings such as libraries, hospitals and prisons, and streams events online.

Finally, The Rising Star Award, sponsored by HIT Scotland was presented to Hugh Mackay from Highland Experience Tours – based in Edinburgh.

Hugh began his career in the tourism industry in 2024. While working with Highland Experience Tours, he has delivered over 200 tours, received more than 150 individual five-star guest reviews, and contributed to a 12% uplift in overall tour ratings for the company.

He has been praised for his leadership, authenticity, and natural charisma, which has made him a standout ambassador for Scottish tourism and a true rising star.

Hugh said: “As a young man from the far north of Scotland, I’m honoured to be recognised in this moment that reflects my commitment to hospitality and tourism, and my passion for showcasing Scotland’s very best to every guest I have the privilege of welcoming on my tours.”

VisitScotland Regional Director Neil Christison said: “Congratulations to all our national winners on this outstanding achievement.

“The strong showing from Edinburgh is a testament to the exceptional quality and innovation found throughout the city’s tourism sector.

“Being honoured by the Scottish Thistle Awards places these businesses, events and individuals among the very best in Scotland. These awards play a vital role in celebrating the people whose work continues to make a positive impact on our communities and the wider visitor economy.”

Responsible tourism is at the heart of the Scottish Thistle Awards, supporting the aim for Scotland to be recognised globally as a leader in this field. Entrants to all categories must evidence how they have embraced best practice covering the four key areas of a low carbon economy, inclusivity, thriving communities and Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage.

National winners were announced at a ceremony hosted by TV presenter Jennifer Reoch and delivered by VisitScotland, with headline sponsors Abbey: The Destination Experts – part of the Abbey Group, a collection of travel companies specialising in inbound tourism to the UK & Ireland. 

Winners from all five regional awards, which also include Central and East, the West of Scotland, Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards (HITA), the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA) and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards (delivered in partnership with the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise) competed at the Scottish Thistle Award national final.

This year’s sponsors are AccessAble, Fishers, GetYourGuide, Historic Scotland, HIT Scotland, Jacobite Loch Ness Cruises, Scottish Licenced Trade Association, STV, The Times Scotland and the Scottish Sun.

For a full list of winners, please visit: www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk

Edinburgh Scottish Thistle Awards regional winners revealed

A historic street, a climate conscious zoo, an inspiring festival, an inclusive visitor attraction and two tourism champions have been crowned Edinburgh’s best at Scotland’s top tourism and events industry awards.  

Six businesses and individuals from the city received awards at the Central and East of Scotland Thistle Awards regional final at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) on Thursday night (11 September). 

For over 30 years, the Scottish Thistle Awards, this year with new headline sponsor Abbey: The Destination Experts, have showcased individual businesses, people and partnership working.

They have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration, and innovation within one of the country’s most important sectors. Past winners credit the awards with boosting their business, increasing enquiries, and inspiring staff. 

Delivered by VisitScotland, in partnership with regional awards programmes, the Scottish Thistle Awards combines five regional awards and a national final. 

Winners from across the Capital include:  

Edinburgh Zoo, who took home two awards – Best Visitor Attraction and Climate Action Award, which celebrates businesses making significant progress towards net zero.  

Judges praised the popular attraction for its environmental sustainability practices and supportive work environment.  

Ben Supple, Deputy Chief Executive, Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, said: “We are incredibly proud that Edinburgh Zoo has been named the best visitor attraction in Central and East Scotland. 

“Nature needs us all more than ever and we want everyone who visits the zoo to learn more about our natural world and how they can protect wildlife. 

“Everyone at Edinburgh Zoo is dedicated to protecting nature, tackling climate change and saving wildlife. 

“It is wonderful that the sustainability activities and innovations at the zoo have been recognised with the climate action award too, including the installation of our new solar meadow.” 

The Real Mary King’s Close was also a double winner, scooping both Employer of the Year and Individual of the Year – General Manager Paul Nixon. 

The historic street sits beneath the Royal Mile, where guests explore authentically preserved 17th-century streets on immersive, one-hour tours led by costumed guides. 

Paul, who also chairs the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA), said: “We’re incredibly proud to be recognised as Employer of the Year. This award reflects the passion, care and creativity of our brilliant team — the heart of everything we do.

“From wellbeing to development, we’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, supported and inspired.” 

And reflecting on his personal accomplishment, Paul added: “It’s an incredible honour to be named Tourism Individual of the Year. I’m fortunate to work in an industry that’s all about people — their stories, experiences and communities.

“This award reflects the brilliant teams I’ve worked with and the passion that drives us all to keep making Scotland’s tourism offer world-class.” 

Edinburgh International Book Festival won the award for Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival, sponsored by STV. 

The category recognises the outstanding cultural events and festivals that are part of Scotland’s tourism offering. 

The Edinburgh International Book Festival is a charity which celebrates and shares the power of writers, their ideas, and the words they craft to illuminate, challenge, and inspire.

Held in the heart of the city at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, each August it presents almost 700 events featuring writers and thinkers from around the world.

As well as children and families, young adults, adults, and schools programmes, the festival brings writers into community settings such as libraries, hospitals and prisons, and streams events online. 

Jenny Niven, Director & CEO, Edinburgh International Book Festival, said: “We’re honoured to be recognised for our work bringing authors and audiences together through a shared love of books, ideas, and conversation. 

“This win is a testament to the creativity, care, and commitment of our team and the many brilliant partners we collaborate with across Scotland and beyond.” 

The Inclusion Award, sponsored by Historic Scotland, was won by Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. 

Edinburgh’s oldest visitor attraction earned the judges’ favour through initiatives like sensory backpacks and quiet spaces, and their new virtual tour shows thoughtful consideration and offers reassurance and flexibility for all visitors.

These showed their commitment to inclusivity – especially for neurodiverse visitors. 

General Manager Andrew Johnson said: “We are absolutely thrilled to win this award for Inclusivity. 

“It’s a powerful recognition of the commitment our entire team has made to ensure Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a place where everyone feels welcome, represented, and inspired.” 

Finally, The Rising Star Award, sponsored by HIT Scotland was presented to Hugh Mackay from Highland Experience Tours.  

Hugh began his career in the tourism industry in 2024. While working with Highland Experience Tours, he has delivered over 200 tours, received more than 150 individual five-star guest reviews, and contributed to a 12% uplift in overall tour ratings for the company.

He has been praised for his leadership, authenticity, and natural charisma, which has made him a standout ambassador for Scottish tourism and a true rising star. 

Hugh said: “As a young man from the far north of Scotland, I’m honoured to be recognised in this moment that reflects my commitment to hospitality and tourism, and my passion for showcasing Scotland’s very best to every guest I have the privilege of welcoming on my tours.”  

VisitScotland Regional Director Neil Christison said: “A huge well done to all our regional winners for this amazing achievement. Having such strong representation from Edinburgh highlights the quality found across the city. 

“Being recognised by the Scottish Thistle Awards, means tourism businesses are considered some of the best in the country. The awards help to ensure that tourism, and the individuals who work in the industry, are praised for the positive impact they bring to the country and our communities. 

“I wish everyone the best of luck for the national final in November where they will be representing Edinburgh.”  

Responsible tourism is at the heart of the Scottish Thistle Awards, supporting the aim for Scotland to be recognised globally as a leader in this field. Entrants to all categories must evidence how they have embraced best practice covering the four key areas of a low carbon economy, inclusivity, thriving communities and Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage. 

Regional winners for Central and East were announced at a ceremony hosted by radio DJ Grant Stott and delivered by VisitScotland, with headline sponsors Abbey: The Destination Experts – part of the Abbey Group, a collection of travel companies specialising in inbound tourism to the UK & Ireland.

Winners from all five regional awards, which also include the West, Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards (HITA) the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA) and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards (delivered in partnership with the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise) go on to compete at the Scottish Thistle Award national ceremony in November. 

This year’s sponsors also include AccessAble, Fishers, Get Your Guide, Historic Scotland, HIT Scotland, Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA), STV, The Times Scotland and the Scottish Sun.    

PICTURES: Connor Mollison/VisitScotland

 For a full list of winners, please visit: www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk 

‘Summertime Streets’ changes to begin next week in city centre

With the summer festivals season fast approaching, the city council is making temporary changes to the way some of our city centre streets operate between Thursday 24 July and Sunday 7 September 2025.

During this busy period the population of our city effectively doubles, which brings challenges for residents, businesses and visitors.

These temporary changes, which include removing or restricting vehicle traffic, are designed to make our streets easier and safer to walk around.

George Street and several streets in the Old Town will be impacted. A full list of streets along with further information is available on our website.

There is also specific advice for blue badge holders, home deliveries, loading and services for businesses, places of worship and special arrangements.

Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “As we prepare to welcome the world to Edinburgh for our summer festivals, we’re making sure that these higher visitor numbers are managed safely and properly.

“We’ve made temporary changes to our city centre streets successfully during this period for many years and I’m sure that this summer will be no different.

“I’d like to thank our residents and businesses for their understanding and patience as we get ready to showcase and enjoy our city’s unparalleled cultural offering once again.”

Goa Tourism Showcase in Edinburgh

Goa Tourism Unveils Regenerative Travel Vision 

India’s coastal gem reimagines itself beyond beaches and casinos at landmark cultural showcase, drawing dignitaries and Scottish Tourism Leaders

The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), in collaboration with a Scotland-based cultural initiative, unveiled its bold new identity as a global leader in regenerative tourism.

Hosted at the elegant elegant Virgin Hotels in Edinburgh on 27th June, the event drew senior Indian delegates, British parliamentarians, cultural leaders, and tourism innovators into a shared dialogue to promote Goa’s evolving identity as a hub for regenerative tourism, wellness, and cultural heritage.

A Prestigious Gathering

The event was spearheaded by Dr. Naval Kumar Verma, Advisor (Medical & Wellness Tourism) to GTDC, who travelled from India alongside Mr. Parvesh Shukla, Director of Worldwide Travel and NRI Head at Rejoice Health Foundation, and Mr. Jigar Bhaglia, Deputy Chair of Selly Oak Conservatives.

The evening was graced by MP Christine Jardine and MP Dr. Scott Arthur, alongside respected voices from Scotland’s tourism, education, and cultural diplomacy sectors. Celebrated author and India advocate Ms. Aline Dobbie also graced the gathering, underscoring the evening’s spirit of Indow-Scottish amity.

Celebrating Culture and Connection

The programme opened with the auspicious lamp lighting ceremony, symbolising unity and enlightment, led jointly by the Indian and Scottish dignitaries.

A captivating Odissi performance by classical dancer Shilpi Dhar set the cultural tone for the evening. The event was seamlessly emceed with warmth by Mrs. Nidhi Walker, a bridge between Indian roots and Scottish identity.

In a keynote that stirred minds and hearts, Dr. Verma presented Goa’s pioneering approach as India’s first state to embrace regenerative tourism — a paradigm that transcends sustainability, focusing on restoring ecosystems, empowering local communities, and preserving and honoring cultural legacies.

“Goa is not just about beaches and casinos,” said Dr. Verma. “It’s a land of Ayurveda, spiritual heritage, waterfalls, wellness festivals, and sacred sites — where tourists can now leave a positive impact through mindful travel.”

Speeches from Dr. Scott Arthur, MP Christine Jardine, Ms. Aline Dobbie, and Ms. Preena Verma echoed these themes emphasizing the potential for India and Scotland to build equitable, eco-conscious partnerships in tourism and culture.

 A Colourful Cultural Showcase

The showcase culminated in an exuberant cultural segment that brought Goa’s vibrant spirit to life. Youthful performers Aarya, Tiara, Aadhya, and Anoushka enchanted the audience with traditional Goan dance, culminating in a breathtaking Kathak recital by Himadri, whose elegant footwork drew heavy applause.

Curated short films transported attendees to Goa’s diverse landscapes — from spice plantations to colonial-era churches, serene temples to Sufi shrines — painting a cinematic portrait of a state where spirituality, biodiversity, and community coalesce.

The evening concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, affirming a shared vision between India and the UK: one where tourism becomes a transformative force for cultural diplomacy and planetary stewardship.

 About Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC)

GTDC is the official body under the Government of Goa responsible for the promotion and development of tourism in the state. GTDC is committed to positioning Goa as a holistic destination that champions regenerative tourism, wellness, and heritage.