Tourist Numbers Up

There's been a 10% rise in the number of tourists flocking to Scotland, according to figures.

More than 15 million overseas and domestic visitors came here last year and spent £4.9 billion. The Open at St Andrews is expected to generate more than £1 million for the local economy.

The figures also show:

• An increase of visitor numbers from north America of 31% and an increase in expenditure of 50%
• The majority of overseas visitors continue to come from Europe with numbers of visitors and expenditure increasing by 6% and 1% respectively
• The 10 % increase in domestic visitors is set against a two per cent decrease in domestic visitors for Great Britain as a whole

Commenting on the figures Tourism Minister Fergus Ewing said: “These figures are hugely encouraging for the Scottish tourism industry as we continue to outperform Great Britain as a whole.

“The rise in both visitors and expenditure show that Scotland is a destination that offers quality experiences and visitors are prepared to spend their money in our hotels, tourism attractions and restaurants.

“Recent figures show Homecoming 2014 generated £136 million of additional revenue to the Scottish economy and we are determined to build on this legacy through other themed years.

“The sustainable increase and expenditure in visitors from North America is hugely encouraging and owes much to the warmth of welcome of our people and our growing international reputation as a place to visit.”