Historic Castle now part of the VIP section
Bothwell Castle is among few historic attractions in Greater Glasgow and the Clyde Valley where visitors can now learn more about the local area while delving into Scotland’s past.
Alongside the Bothwell landmark, Glasgow Cathedral, and Newark Castle have become the latest members of the Visitscotland Information Partner (VIP) programme.
Launched in 2016, the innovative VIP programme harnesses the local knowledge, warmth and enthusiasm of partners across the country to help visitors receive the warmest of welcomes and make the most of their trip to Scotland. Bothwell Castle in Uddingston is the largest and finest 13th century stone castle in Scotland, much fought over during the Wars of Independence. Its rich history and beautiful setting make it a popular attraction and it welcomed over 11,000 visitors last year.
A total of 66 Historic Environment Scotland properties have now joined a network of over 2000 information ambassadors across the country.
The Visitscotland initiative comes as a direct response to significant changes in visitor behaviour in the last five years, with people now using a variety of channels to access the information they need whether it be online, on their phone or in person.
As well as a network of VIPS, Visitscotland has also created 26 key Visitscotland icentres in high impact locations, increased digital content with a has also increased the number of channels providing content on places to visit and stay, with a mix of industry partners, Coo Vans and digital products sitting alongside 26 key Visitscotland icentres.
Gordon Smith, Visitscotland Regional Director, said:“with its rich heritage and fascinating past, Greater Glasgow and the Clyde Valley has a vast range of outstanding historical sites. It’s great to see that five of these attractions have joined our impressive network of VIPS.
“Historic Environment Scotland man some of the most popular attractions in the country so we are delighted to officially welcome 66 of these properties to our growing VIP programme. Their enthusiastic and friendly staff already play an important part in promoting their local area and we look forward to them continuing this as part of the iknow community.
“There’s no doubt that the way in which visitors access information has changed dramatically over recent years. This new approach enhances and complements the many ways in which we provide information and ensures we are meeting the needs of our visitors.
“Visitscotland is working closely with communities, businesses and organisations, like HES, to build a network of ambassadors to ensure there is an information touchpoint in every single corner of the country.”