Search interest for Scottish staycations has soared over the past week, fuelled by warm weather and a surge in national pride following the Tartan Army's prominence in the news. With summer holidays approaching, many families are seeking last-minute getaways within Scotland.
Rise in Searches for Scottish Destinations
Parkdean Resorts has reported a notable increase in searches for its Scottish holiday parks. The company attributes this to Scots wanting to capitalise on the good weather by booking breaks at its award-winning locations. Many Scots were already hesitant about travelling abroad this year due to rising fuel prices linked to the Middle East conflict, with airlines warning of potential flight cuts or price hikes. This renewed energy across the country has prompted more people to explore Scotland.
From vibrant cities to beaches reminiscent of foreign shores, Scotland offers diverse staycation options for all families. Parents can avoid early airport runs while still enjoying a fun holiday close to home.
Top Searched Locations
Among the most searched destinations are Wemyss Bay in Inverclyde, Southerness in Dumfries and Galloway, and Grannie's Heilan' Hame Holiday Park in Embo, Highlands. These locations, spread across the country, indicate a widespread enthusiasm for exploring Scotland this summer.
Parkdean Resorts Spokesperson Comment
A spokesperson from Parkdean Resorts said: "A sunny spell coinciding with the football is exactly what many of us were hoping for. With Scottish pride firmly in the spotlight over the past week, more people are being inspired to explore and celebrate Scotland’s heritage and natural beauty closer to home."
They added: "Major sporting events often bring people together and inspire appreciation for local culture and identity. This year, we're seeing that sense of national pride reflected in travel choices, with more people exploring destinations closer to home. We’ve seen this reflected in a sharp rise in searches for Scottish destinations, as holidaymakers look to book last-minute breaks and make the most of the good weather."
Great British Summer Savings Scheme
In addition to increased interest in domestic travel, staying in Scotland this summer may be more affordable thanks to the UK Government's Great British Summer Savings scheme. This initiative introduces a temporary VAT cut on attractions across the UK to reduce prices for families. The scheme includes zoos, theme parks, cinemas, and restaurants that have applied specific savings on family and children's tickets.
Hospitality companies such as Greene King, Nando's, McDonald's, and Wetherspoons have applied the tax saving to children's meals, while cinema chains Cineworld, Vue, and Odeon are also cutting costs. For example, Odeon has reduced a family ticket for two adults and two children from £32 to £28.50 during the scheme.
Highland Attractions Join Scheme
Landmark Forest Adventure Park, a popular family attraction in the Highlands, has confirmed it will discount both adult and child entry tickets by £3 over the holiday period. Meanwhile, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park in Stirling has cut prices for its full-day entry and its Summer Later Entry tickets, which allow families to visit between 4pm and 7pm on Saturdays during the summer holidays.
It should be noted that there is no legal requirement for businesses to participate in the UK-wide scheme, which runs from June 25 to September 1.
