Katie Scott was awarded Tourism Individual of the Year at the 2023 Thistle Awards
The Real Mary King’s Close is celebrating success as Operations Manager, Katie Scott, was honoured at the 2023 Scottish Thistle Awards this week.
Katie was awarded Tourism Individual of the Year for the Central and East Regional category by Visit Scotland. This follows on from her recent achievement in being named one of the Top 100 Women in Tourism in Scotland in March 2022.
Katie joined The Real Mary King’s Close as a Tour Guide in 2016 and has since moved her way up the ranks, most recently becoming Operations Manager in January 2023 and overseeing all on-site activity at the celebrated attraction.
The Real Mary King’s Close is one of the UK’s Top Ten visitor attractions, according to the number of positive reviews received by Trip Advisor in 2023. Katie is an integral part of the company, responsible for every new experience that has been launched at the attraction over the past four years.
Katie is passionate about community and inclusivity, which has been demonstrated through the development of special tours that interrogate lesser-known or less often studied narratives from Edinburgh’s past, such as the ‘Herstory’ tours and Pride History tours.
These initiatives have not only helped to promote diversity but forge meaningful partnerships with organisations like Edinburgh’s Strut Safe and LGBT Youth Scotland, making The Real Mary King’s Close a welcoming space for all.
After winning Tourism Individual of the Year, Katie Scott, Operations Manager at The Real Mary King’s Close, said: “I am delighted to have won the Tourism Individual of the Year award, something I would never have imagined when I started as a Tour Guide at The Real Mary King’s Close in 2016.
“I am incredibly grateful that my dedication to developing the attraction and creating a welcoming and creative workplace culture that supports inclusivity within the industry has been recognised”.
For more information on The Real Mary King’s Close, please visit:
Top 10 Visitor Attraction in 2023 as rated on TripAdvisor
Scottish Thistle award winner for Best Heritage Tourism Experience 2019
Since opening in 2003, the visitor attraction has welcomed over 2.75 million guests.
The site offers a range of bespoke themed events, group activities, educational visits, venue hire, and a retail area filled with authentic Scottish gifts and produce.
The Real Mary King’s Close is proud to be a Silver Investors in People.
Since opening, the attraction has donated over £60k to charities both at home and nationally.
Lothian and Borders regional winner of the two Scottish Thistle awards for Best Visitor Attraction and Best Heritage Tourism Experience in 2019.
Winner of the first Service Excellence award at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce business awards 2019.
Residents and visitors invited to come back for more as new Forever Edinburgh marketing campaigns go live
Visitors invited to ‘Experience the Beauty’ of Scotland’s capital with stunning new visitor campaign taking viewers behind famous scenes and showing the city in a new light.
Newly launched city destination website promotes local businesses, features ‘UK first’ ChatGPT chat box and new interactive city, neighbourhood and regional maps to make it easier for visitors to explore.
Series of unique rewards secured to expand Forever Edinburgh’s successful resident rewards programme, meaning more year-round reduced resident rates and ‘money can’t buy’ experiences – for locals only.
Following the busiest summer festival season in Scotland’s Capital since Covid hit, Forever Edinburgh has unveiled a new inbound visitor campaign and brand-new city marketing website, enhanced by a programme of unmissable resident rewards.
The campaigns are aimed at generating increased spend and support for Edinburgh’s tourism, hospitality and leisure businesses while spreading tourism throughout the year.
Created in 2022 thanks to funding from the City of Edinburgh Council and Visit Scotland, Forever Edinburgh is the city’s official destination guide. The expanded ‘Resident Rewards Edinburgh’ programme and ‘Experience the Beauty’ visitor campaign are both funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Soar through Edinburgh with breath-taking digital campaign
The city’s official destination promotion service has unveiled a brand new UK inbound leisure visitor digital campaign: Experience the Beauty.
Designed to raise awareness of Edinburgh’s unrivalled experiences and encourage new and repeat visitors to visit in all seasons, the campaign features colourful flashes of iconic sights and attractions mixed with intimate snippets of Edinburgh’s less explored nooks and crannies.
Explore Edinburgh before entering the city with interactive new website
Forever Edinburgh – The Official Guide to Edinburgh has launched a brand new website to provide a more powerful tool for raising awareness of the city’s year-round, city-wide visitor offering to residents and prospective visitors.
The new site is the first destination website in the UK to launch a Chat GPT powered chatbot while an interactive map will help users navigate their way between the city centre, local neighbourhoods and the wider region.
Local tourism businesses and organisations can also now create and maintain their own free web listing to help inspire bookings.
Similarly, businesses can record whether they are Green Scotland accredited, helping to position Edinburgh as a responsible destination that can be enjoyed by everyone and supporting Edinburgh becoming a net zero city. Businesses can also highlight their services for visitors with additional accessibility requirements.
Snap up new Resident Rewards
Only available to local residents, the Capital’s trailblazing ‘Resident Reward Edinburgh’ programme is now expanding with four new rewards categories for residents. These include special resident rates by signed-up partners, exclusive resident previews for some of the city’s newest openings, annual validity on tickets to grow loyalty with the annual pass, and half price and free days.
First launched in January 2022 offering one high-value monthly reward from one new business each month, this is a growing programme with new rewards categories joining the programme on a rolling basis.
This success is expected to continue as Forever Edinburgh announces new monthly star rewards with Lind & Lime Gin this September and The Cauldron in October, plus discounted resident rates for a range of attractions including Mercat Tours, PURE Spa and Edinburgh Bus Tours.
Council Leader Cammy Day said: “In line with Edinburgh’s 2030 Tourism Strategy we are working towards a more sustainable, fairer visitor economy. These campaigns redefine Edinburgh as a destination for a whole range of incredible experiences for everybody, in every season of the year.
“The new website celebrates the green credentials many of our businesses boast as well as our beautiful green spaces. It highlights accessible, low-carbon travel options to make it easy for people to get around. As well as our iconic city centre sights, Forever Edinburgh is celebrating Edinburgh’s fantastic neighbourhoods and offers a number of special rewards only residents can gain access to.
“Whether you live locally or visit from halfway across the world, there is so much more to Edinburgh than many of us find time to discover. It’s great to see these campaigns shine a light on some of those experiences.”
VisitScotland Regional Director Neil Christison said:“Digital channels play a significant role in marketing Scotland to both domestic and international markets, helping consumers research and book their trips.
“It is fantastic to see the launch of the new Forever Edinburgh website and marketing activity that will showcase the variety of what is on offer in the city and surrounding area, all year round.
“In addition, the resident reward scheme is a great example of tourism as a force for good, benefiting communities in and around the city and helping to drive forward the aims of Edinburgh’s 2030 tourism strategy.”
Claire Riddoch, Marketing Manager for Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, said: “Taking part in the Residents Reward was a great success for Camera Obscura & World of Illusions.
“We are always looking at ways we can work with our local partners and audiences to give back something in return for their loyal support, especially after the last few hard years of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We were delighted to welcome just under 700 local children free during March 2023, which contributed to a 56% overall rise in children visiting compared to March 2022 and 33% of our total visitors were from Edinburgh and Lothians, up 16% on 2022.”
Iain McNeill, Managing Director for Whereverly Limited, the local company commissioned to design the new website, said: “We are delighted to have worked with Edinburgh Council to design and develop the new Forever Edinburgh website.
“A website which captures the character and diversity of Edinburgh and the imaginations of those looking to visit.”
Resident Rewards
A full list of rewards is available to view at the Forever Edinburgh website:
A FILM created by Aberdeenshire pupils has been displayed at the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art after the school won a national competition.
Pupils from Kemnay Academy travelled to the capital to watch a film they created on local land being projected onto the museum after being announced as winners of the Scottish Land Commission’s MyLand.Scot ‘My Land, My Story’ campaign.
The film told the story of the area around Kemnay Quarry and the transformation the land has seen in the past, present and future – from producing granite that was used in the Scottish Parliament Building and Forth Road Bridge, to becoming a community and educational space.
Dexter Cook, a 16-year-old pupil from the school, said: “Creating the film has been a brilliant experience. It’s been fascinating to learn about our local land and get creative to showcase its use.
“The highlight was actually winning the competition. Everyone is extremely proud to have seen our film projected onto the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and it was such a fun day travelling to Edinburgh as a class for the event.”
The ‘My Land, My Story’ competition was launched by the Scottish Land Commission as part of its MyLand.Scot campaign in connection with VisitScotland’s Year of Stories 2022 to raise awareness among the younger generations about the range of positive ways land can be used and reused around the country.
Kemnay Academy received a £500 grant from the Scottish Land Commission to create their film on the Kemnay Quarry, which saw the school’s Environmental Sciences and Media Studies classes combine to bring the project to life.
Land Reform Minister Mairi McAllan said: “Scotland’s land is a precious national resource that is fundamental to our economy, our environment, our wellbeing and our just transition to net zero.
“It also forms an important part of our history and culture – as demonstrated by Kemnay Academy in their impressive film. I offer my congratulations to the young winners for this excellent achievement.
“Scotland already has a long history of land reform, with the statutory Community Right to Buy, the Scottish Land Commission and the Scottish Land Fund empowering people across the country to benefit from the ownership and use of local assets.
“Through our ambitious new Land Reform Bill we will support this existing work to encourage and support responsible and diverse landownership – and create more opportunities for people and communities to determine how land in their area is used.”
MyLand.Scot is an online initiative which aims to highlight ways in which Scotland’s land is owned, used and managed. From social media-savvy farmers to communities transforming derelict land into gardens, the project uses case studies to showcase positive examples of land use around the country.
Hamish Trench, Chief Executive of the Scottish Land Commission, said: “Pupils at Kemnay Academy have been incredibly creative in demonstrating ways in which young people in Scotland can engage in conversations around land use.
“It was exciting to see their production centre stage at the National Gallery of Modern Art and we hope that projects like this will continue to encourage young people to think of land in creative ways and encourage in conversations around Scottish land.”
The Scottish Land Commission works to create a Scotland where everybody can benefit from the ownership and use of the nation’s land and buildings.
What is the true value of water in Scotland and what does it mean to you? On Monday 22nd March, the Hydro Nation International Centre, supported by the Scottish Government and the James Hutton Institute are hosting a free online celebration of World Water Day, bringing together Scotland’s water community to hear their perspectives on the theme of ‘Valuing Water’.
In our water-rich Scotland, water is often taken for granted, but the annual UN World Water Day is a brilliant opportunity to reflect on what it means for a nation to truly value its water. Value means different things to different people, sometimes just purely economic, but many see water through a wider cultural, environmental, and societal lens.
On the 22nd of March participants will be able to join in the conversation, in what is also Scotland’s Year of Coasts and Waters, and hear from representatives from the Water Industry Commission for Scotland, the Scotch Whisky Association, the Scottish Government, the Energy Saving Trust, Citizens Advice Scotland and Visit Scotland.
This year’s online format has presented exciting opportunities and, in addition to a series of fascinating talks and panel discussions, World Water Day 2021 will host a series of immersive, three-dimensional virtual exhibition spaces, giving participants a chance to:
Explore the latest thinking on range of issues, including community empowerment and engagement, how Scotland is leading water innovation, making our cities “climate-proof” and contributing to the global fight against climate change;
Gain fascinating insight into the leading-edge research of the Hydro Nation Scholars and wider academic community;
Network virtually with key players in the Scottish water sector, as well as others with interest and insight into Scotland’s water resources;
Lose yourself in an exploration of the role of water in contemporary Scottish art and design,
And more!
Professor Bob Ferrier, Director of Scotland’s Centre of Expertise for Waters (CREW), said: “The Hydro Nation International Centre at the James Hutton Institute in Scotland, is honoured to coordinate our annual national celebration of World Water Day, bringing together water professionals, researchers, policy, regulators and the public to share experiences and perspectives on the world’s most precious resource.”
Barry Greig, of the Water Industry Team at Scottish Government, commented: “Scotland’s unique Hydro Nation agenda comprises a broad range of activities supporting the Scottish Government’s vision to be a world leader in the sustainable use and responsible management of water.
“We strive to manage our water environment to the best advantage, ensuring we recognise the importance and value of water within our national and international identity. World Water Day provides an ideal opportunity to showcase Scotland’s water leadership.”
The event will be held on the 22nd March, with registration commencing at 9:30am.
Tickets are free and can be booked via Eventbrite at the following link:
As the Jim Clark Motorsport Museum in Duns, Scottish Borders, opened to the public for the new season yesterday, the partners who collaborated on the project are celebrating 5-Star status awarded by VisitScotland.
The museum opened to the public on 11 July 2019 following a £1.6 million partnership project – the museum welcomed 13,000 visitors in its first six months as well as securing its first award, notably from the Royal Automobile Club Historic Awards.
The new museum was visited and assessed by VisitScotland Quality Tourism Advisors and was awarded the prestigious 5-Star Museum grading – the first museum in the Scottish Borders to receive this accolade and one of only nine 5-Star visitor attractions in the region.
Developed and improved for over 30 years, VisitScotland’s Quality Assurance scheme is delivered by a dedicated team of experts who offer valuable business advice and support.
The scheme is not just about driving standards; it aims to help businesses reach their full potential so they can reap the benefits and secure their success. That in turn delivers benefits for the economy of their region and for Scotland’s tourism industry.
For the start of the season, the museum is hosting a new exhibition, Clark on Canvas. This evocative exhibition of artworks depicts 1960s motor racing, when Jim Clark was the dominant driver.
The artwork has been loaned to the museum by the Guild of Motoring Artists, an international group dedicated to automotive art. Visitors will be able to purchase paintings from the exhibition, which runs to 30 November 2020.
Ewan Jackson, Chief Executive Officer for charity Live Borders who operate the museum, said: “As operators of museums, galleries and attractions across the Scottish Borders, it was an honour to have a team working on this project – to secure 5-Star status from VisitScotland reinforces the quality of the team, their creative vision and focus on customer experience.
“Thank you and well done to everyone who has worked with us to secure this brilliant accolade.
“Positive cultural exhibitions and celebrating our local heritage is very much in line with Live Borders’ commitment to communities across the Borders being healthier, happier and stronger.”
VisitScotland Regional Leadership Director, Paula Ward, said: “Congratulations to the Jim Clark Motorsport Museum on this fantastic achievement.
“The 5-Star award recognises the exceptional customer service experience for visitors to the museum and is a great addition to the quality offering in the Scottish Borders.
“Delivering a quality experience that meets, and exceeds, visitor expectations is crucial in making Scotland a must-visit, must-return destination and the re-opening of the museum has been a huge success, helping to propel the Scottish Borders into the spotlight.
“Our Quality Assurance scheme helps businesses to reach their full potential and truly shine. The scheme is about more than just the ‘stars’ on the door – it’s about the entire visitor experience, about investing in your business, driving-up quality and creating jobs.”
Councillor Euan Jardine, Scottish Borders Council’s Executive Member for Culture and Sport, said: “The 5-Star award is fantastic recognition for everyone that has played a part in making this museum a reality and delivered the highest quality visitor experience since it opened.
“This is an incredible museum which truly does justice to one of the world’s greatest sportsmen and I am sure many more visitors will enjoy all it has to offer in its first full season.”
Douglas Bell, from The Jim Clark Trust, said: “We are delighted with the new VisitScotland Award and congratulations all the partners and supporters involved. It really is a very special museum.
“The design and display of memorabilia, trophies, film, imagery and race cars are a wonderful tribute to Jim Clark. The staff are warm, welcoming and insightful. Jim was a farmer at heart and now recognised as one of the greatest motor racing drivers of all time. We look forward to welcoming visitors to learn more about his remarkable story to inspire future generations.”
Coinciding with the opening of the museum for the spring and summer tourism season, a new Jim Clark Trail has been announced to enhance the experience of visitors.
The Jim Clark Trail is a 50-mile scenic driving tour celebrating the beauty of the Scottish Borders, the heritage of motorsport and wider culture attractions in the area. The museum has fast become a magnet for classic and sports car enthusiasts.
The new trail is a driving adventure for all visitors to discover the stories and places behind the famous Berwickshire farmer whilst promoting tourism ‘pit stops’ in the region.
Follow the Jim Clark Motorsport Museum on social media #JimClarkMotorsportMuseum @liveborders @JimClarkTrust @scotborders
“Tourism is the heartbeat of the Scottish economy”
Visits and spending by overseas tourists in Scotland rose to its highest level on record in 2017. The ONS Travel Trends 2017 statistics showed the number of overseas tourists visiting Scotland rose by 16.9% to 3.2 million, while expenditure increased by 23% to £2.3 billion.
The record figures were driven by European visitors who made 1.9 million visits to Scotland, a 17% increase from 2016, with spending rising by 36% to £1.1 billion. Across the UK as a whole the number of European visitors increased by 1% and spending fell by 1%.
A range of factors made Scotland an attractive place to visit in 2017 including events associated with the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology, the Outlander effect and VisitScotland digital activity.
Tourism Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “These figures show 2017 was a record year for overseas tourists visiting and spending money in Scotland, which is great news for the industry and our economy.
“Tourism is one of our most important industries, employing 207,000 people, creating jobs, supporting the local economy and building on our strong international reputation.
“As we get closer to the UK’s departure from the EU, we will continue to do all we can to ensure people from across the EU and elsewhere are welcome to work in our tourism sector and visit our beautiful, vibrant country.”
Malcolm Roughead, VisitScotland Chief Executive, said: “Today’s figures herald a remarkable period for Scottish tourism, with overseas visits in 2017 reaching a record high.
“These outstanding results show that Scotland can compete on a global stage. Using our unrivalled beauty, rich history, pioneering partnerships and innovative thinking we are communicating with visitors from every corner of the world.
“Groundbreaking apps, creative digital campaigns and inspirational content means we can reach visitors and potential visitors at every step of their journey, informing the visitors of today and inspiring the visitors of tomorrow.
“Tourism is the heartbeat of the Scottish economy, causing a ripple effect which touches every industry and community, creating employment and economic growth. Buoyed by the success of today’s figures we look forward to continue working with our partnerships across every aspect of the tourism industry to make sure Scotland is at the top of everyone’s list to live and work, invest, study and visit.”
The figures are available to view and are the highest for overseas tourists since the survey began in 1961/62.
Fiona Hyslop, Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs and Shona McCarthy, Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society have announced plans for the inaugural World Fringe Day, an international day of celebration that will take place on Tuesday 11 July. Continue reading Edinburgh to take centre stage on World Fringe Day
