It has been revealed that Perth and Kinross is the fifth most popular destination for stay-cationers taking overnight trips according to Visit Scotland and the Great Britain Tourism Survey.
Just under 10% of the regions businesses are directly linked to the tourism sector which compares favourably with the national average of 9%.
Well over 600,000 day trips were made to Perth and Kinross between 2013 and 2015, which highlights the lure of the area for people from across the UK.
Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP, Murdo Fraser said:
“Perth and Kinross is amongst the most popular destinations for staycationers and day-trippers which is testament to the lure of the area when it comes to domestic tourists. Ensuring that this message is promoted far and wide is incredibly important.
“Only Edinburgh, Glasgow, the Highlands and Argyll and Bute, the traditional tourist heartlands, are ahead of Perth and Kinross and I would hope the region can move into fourth place in the near future.
“It’s also hugely positive to note that businesses and employment in the region is not overly dependent on tourists from further afield, where there is more likely to be sharp drops in demand. Ensuring the region has a diverse portfolio of businesses is still very important
“In Perth itself there are exciting plans on the horizon including the refurbishment of City Hall and the return of the Stone of Destiny which can only further enhance the region’s reputation. I would encourage all partners to work hard to ensure both of these visions come to fruition.”