Increase In Overseas Visitors

More people choosing Scotland as their ideal holiday destination.

Scotland's tourism industry was boosted last year by a 13% increase in overseas visits and a 14% rise in spending, new statistics have shown.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics show that the number of overseas tourists increased from under 2.2 million in the year to March 2013 to 2.5 million in the year to March 2014.

Spending by tourists from overseas was also up, rising from £1.4 billion in the year to March 2013 to £1.6 billion in the year to March 2014.

Between 2005 and 2013 expenditure by overseas visitors has risen by almost 40%.

Set against a general decline in domestic visitors across the UK, Scotland experienced an 8% decline in the year to March 2014 although spending from domestic visitors was largely maintained.

Welcoming the figures Minister for Local Government and Planning Derek MacKay, said:

"2014 is the year Scotland welcomes the world.

"Recently voted by Lonely Planet the third best country in the world to visit, our Year of Homecoming, the Commonwealth Games, the Ryder Cup and the MTV Europe Awards are all putting our country on the international stage.

"Despite operating in a challenging environment our tourism industry has worked hard to make Scotland a destination offering quality experiences for visitors.

"There is a huge demand from long-haul tourists for holidaying in Scotland and they are clearly prepared to spend their money in our hotels, tourism attractions and restaurants.

"This success reflects the sterling work of VisitScotland who have worked tirelessly to showcase Scotland and 2014 as such a pivotal year for tourism.

"Following recent increases in staycations and domestic holidays the upturn in the economy is seeing a return to more international travel. However, it is encouraging to see that spending levels are being maintained in the domestic market in Scotland.

"The people who work in the tourism industry deserve plaudits. They act as the nation's standard bearers, their drive and commitment is delivering results and providing a memorable visitor experience for Scotland’s guests.

"As we look forward to the Commonwealth Games and the arrival of visitors from the world over tourism in Scotland is ready to shine on the international stage."