Lang Toun bids to encourage more visitors to stay locally

Kirkcaldy is hoping that a worldwide online accommodation service will boost its economy.

The town has around 80 properties listed on Airbnb and its business improvement district company is to promote them in an attempt to increase visitor numbers.

Surrounded by attractions including St Andrews, the East Neuk villages and Fife’s coastline, Kirkcaldy4All said the town needed to make more from its location on the tourist trail. Data from the town’s wifi network shows people from many far-flung destinations are visiting but not staying.

BID manager Bill Harvey said: “We have a fantastic offering – not only are we Fife’s biggest retail destination, but we have a brilliant collection of attractions, from the Adam Smith Theatre and our galleries to parks, gardens and the revitalised mile-long waterfront forming one of the most easily accessible sections of Fife’s coastal path.”

Airbnb is to be included in Kirkcaldy4All’s digital and social media promotion, followed by thousands of people.

Mr Harvey said: “There are around 30 properties listed in the town and another 50 or so within a five to 10 minute drive.

“Many in tourism overlook Airbnb, and yet what could be better for anyone visiting our area than to stay with a person or family who live and work here, someone who can tell them not only the best places to eat, drink and shop but also to offer knowledge and experience of our attractions and places to discover and explore?

“By highlighting the opportunity to stay here, we will be helping to attract more people to spend more time in town.”