Visitor attractions in Scotland see a boost in 2023

Scotland's visitor attractions enjoyed a 17.2% boost in the number of people coming through the doors in 2023.

Attractions across the country recorded 48,685,638 visits last year, an increase of 7,133,336 on 2022, as the sector saw numbers return to pre-COVID levels.

Glasgow's Gallery of Modern Art received a massive boost from the exhibition from the artist Banksy.

His first show in 14 years saw visitor numbers jump by 60.4% since 2022 to 510,936.

"Exceptional visitor experience"

Chris Greenwood, Senior Research Fellow at The Moffat Centre, said: “Despite many headwinds experienced by businesses and consumers, visitor numbers have been robust. The overall performance is very positive.

“Consumer sentiment studies have shown greater price sensitivity among consumers relating to travel and tourism but a desire to travel remains.

“Price-sensitive visitors have a wealth of free attractions to choose from and our paid attractions continue to appeal to both international and domestic visitors alike.”

Strong performers included Culzean Castle and Country Park, up 29.6% to 291,674, Glasgow Science Centre, up 24.2% to 350,441, and Urquhart Castle and Stirling Castle, up 24% and 23.7% respectively.

Michael Golding, chief executive of ASVA, said: “Our sector's relentless focus on delivering exceptional visitor experiences has been key to our recovery. The consistent upward trend in visitor numbers year after year is a result of the hard work of businesses.

“This resurgence of visitors is crucial, not only to our attractions and the tourism sector but also plays a significant role in bolstering the wider Scottish economy and supporting the communities that surround these attractions.”

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