The Highlands of Scotland, including the far north region of Caithness and Sutherland, are contributing to the growth of tourism in the area. Despite the challenges faced by the Scottish tourism industry post-pandemic, there is still strong demand and interest in visiting the stunning region. Far North Scotland was recently named one of Lonely Planet's Best in Travel destinations for 2024. VisitScotland is actively promoting responsible travel and encouraging longer stays in the region. Recent statistics show that visits to Scotland and spending by international visitors have surpassed pre-pandemic levels. The tourism industry in the Highlands plays a vital role in supporting the economy, sustaining communities, creating jobs, and attracting investment. VisitScotland is focused on marketing, partnership work, and business support activities to promote the Highlands as a year-round destination. The region has seen the emergence of innovative and evolving tourism businesses, such as MacGregor's Bar in Inverness, which has successfully boosted visitor numbers through online social media following. Various events in the Highlands, supported by EventScotland funding, have also contributed to the region's appeal, including the Scottish Six Days Trial, Nairn Book and Arts Festival, and Skyline Scotland. In 2023, the reopening of Strathnaver Museum and the Loch Ness Centre, as well as the launch of the Uile-bheist distillery and the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, were significant highlights. Additionally, the Flow Country of Caithness and Sutherland is seeking World Heritage Site status. VisitScotland continues to collaborate with High Life Highland on the Spirit of the Highlands and Islands project, which focuses on responsible tourism messages. The tourism industry in the Highlands is supported by local communities and aims to provide a quality experience for visitors while creating better places for people to live, work, and visit.
Crieff, a small town in Scotland, is gaining attention for its abundance of quaint family-run shops. The town is known for its excellent whisky and the Glenturret Distillery, Scotland's oldest working distillery. Crieff has a population of about 7,000 people but its town centre is bustling with life, offering a range of family-run businesses. The town's growth was rooted in cattle droving and it became known as the main entry point to the Scottish Highlands. Crieff is located near Stirling and is a short drive away from attractions like Glencoe, Fort Augustus, Loch Ness, and Balmoral Castle. [cf4abc83]
In addition to its charming shops, Crieff has recently been named among the best 'underrated corners' in the UK. The Telegraph compiled a list of hidden gem locations, and Crieff was recognized for its unique offerings. Two other locations in Scotland, Queensferry and Dundee, were also included in the list. Dundee was praised for its creative spots, including the V&A outpost, the McManus Galleries, and the Dundee Contemporary Arts Centre. Queensferry, near Edinburgh, was commended for its engineering landmarks like the Forth Bridge, the Forth Road Bridge, and the Queensferry Crossing. It also holds historical significance and hosts the Burryman ceremony in the summer. The article encourages more tourists to visit these hidden gems in Scotland. [f2f262b0]
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is renowned for its vibrant independent shops that offer curated, handmade goods. The city is home to a plethora of design, art, books, record, and food shops that showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of local artisans. Some of the best independent shops in Edinburgh include An Independent Zebra, Curiouser & Curiouser, Flamingosaurus Rex, Handsel, Logan Malloch, Red Door Gallery, The Beerhive, Cork and Cask, Cornelius, George Mewes, Great Grog, I.J. Mellis, Lupe Pintos, Salt Horse, Winekraft, Broughton Street Flowers, Green Plant Shops, Grow Urban, Moss & Fern, and Rose and Ammi Flowers for design, homewares, and gifts. For book lovers, there are Argonaut Books, Armchair Books, Ginger and Pickles, Golden Hare Books, The Portobello Bookshop, Rare Birds Books, Tills Bookshop, Topping & Company Edinburgh, and Typewronger Books. Music enthusiasts can explore Assai Records, Avalanche Records, Slow Progress Records & Coffee, Thorne Records, Umbrella Vinyl, Underground Solu'shn, and VoxBox Music for a wide selection of records. These independent shops contribute to the unique and diverse shopping experience in Edinburgh, attracting both locals and tourists alike. [b68f8e90]
Crieff and Edinburgh are just two examples of the many charming towns and cities in Scotland that offer a rich and authentic experience for visitors. From picturesque landscapes to vibrant local businesses, Scotland continues to captivate travelers with its beauty and culture. Whether it's exploring family-run shops in Crieff or discovering independent boutiques in Edinburgh, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this enchanting country.