New research reveals growing interest in pet-friendly getaways
Scotland is emerging as one of the top destinations for UK pet-lovers this autumn and winter, according to new data from the national tourism organisation, VisitScotland.
Recent findings from VisitScotland's UK Resident Holiday Sentiment Tracker* reveal that one in ten visitors planning a Scottish getaway later this year intend to bring their pets along. For Scotland-based visitors, the trend is even more pronounced, with one in seven planning to include their furry companions on their domestic overnight trips.
The research also indicates that families are more likely to travel with pets and tend to take longer trips, highlighting the growing popularity of pet-friendly tourism in Scotland.
Dog ownership has been steadily rising for over a decade, with an estimated 28% of UK adults now owning a dog**. It is estimated that approximately £350million is spent in Scotland's visitor economy from overnight visitors that bring their dog.
The recent findings provide a welcome boost to Scotland's pet-friendly tourism businesses, especially as the traditionally busier summer period winds down.
Earlier this year, the Scotland Visitor Survey 2023*** found that last year, 11% of visitors holidayed in the country with a pet, and 89% were repeat visitors.
Domestic tourism remains a vital part of Scotland's visitor economy, accounting for 106 million visits in 2023 and generating £7 billion in visitor spend.
However, the cost of living continues to pose challenges, with some UK visitors spending less, taking fewer nights away, and seeking cost-effective activities due to fuel costs.
Jacqui Souter, Senior Marketing Insight Manager at VisitScotland, said: “Pets are a huge part of family life nowadays, so it's important that visitors can include them in their holiday plans. It's really encouraging to see the growing trend of dog owners considering exploring Scotland at different times of the year. This presents an exciting opportunity for the Scottish tourism and events industry to highlight their dog-friendly products, amenities, and offerings to potential visitors."
“Pet-friendly tourism is a lucrative and rapidly growing market. Scotland is the perfect must-visit, must-return destination for pet owners, with its rugged mountains, diverse walking routes, beautiful parks, and award-winning beaches providing an ideal environment for furry friends year-round.”
One tourism business already embracing pet-friendly tourism is Cromlix, a luxury country house hotel near Dunblane owned by Andy and Kim Murray. Recently named Best Hotel Experience 2023 at the Scottish Thistle Awards, Cromlix is well-known for welcoming four-legged visitors. Their Very Important Pup package offers guests traveling with dogs a luxurious experience, including a dog bed and bowl in the room, a doggie welcome hamper, and a turndown treat, with the option of a room service breakfast menu for pets.
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