Scots say they want holiday postcards kept in the picture

Survey has picturesque Crail and Pitlochry as top spots to put on cards

Crail and Pitlochry are picture postcard perfect.

That’s the finding of Royal Mail research that reveals Scots think the postcard is likely to see a resurgence as more Britons plan holidays at home and seaside towns enjoy a revival.

The picture postcard has been a tradition as British as fish and chips ever since Royal Mail gave them its seal of approval in 1894.

And just as the Great British staycation could be here for good, so too, say the public, is the postcard.

It is up there with the return to popularity of fountain pens, calligraphy and love letters, according to the study.

Six in 10 Scots would like to see more postcards being sent, and eight in 10 would prefer to receive a postcard over a social media message.

Receiving a postcard made them feel special while the picture correspondence also has sentimental appeal for people.

A top 10 of modern beauty spots in Scotland to send a postcard from includes Crail and Pitlochry.

The picturesque locations line up with Edinburgh, the Fairy Glen on Skye, and Iona.

In its celebration of the Great British picture postcard, Royal Mail has teamed up with book and manuscripts expert Clive Farahar, who often features on the Antiques Roadshow, to compile a guide.

He said: “It is satisfying to see that the picture postcard still plays such an important role in the modern holiday.

“These curiously British keepsakes provide people with the perfect opportunity to create their own personal piece of history in a fun and thoughtful way.”

They are an excellent collector’s item, he added. Most are cheap to buy second hand and they have universal appeal in showing everything from a rare view to a bygone time or a “heart-wrenching” postcard from the trenches.

Julie Pirone, director of external relations at Royal Mail, added: “While hot dog legs and seafront selfies are a fantastic way to showcase your holiday to friends, nothing shows someone that you truly wish they were there than a postcard with a thoughtful, funny and informative message. Think of it this way – you’ll never be able to keep a social media post in the attic.”

As more Scots holiday at home, a survey found that people would like to see a resurgence in the classic picture postcard.

Pictures: Gareth Jennings. Crail, in Fife’s East Neuk, was in the top 10 of Scottish spots from which to send a postcard, according to the Royal Mail survey.