Tourism plan hopes to get more visitors
A new marketing campaign has been aiming to help Scots visitors fall in love with South Lanarkshire this autumn and winter.
With stunning images of New Lanark, Falls of Clyde and the Bowmuir Farm, VisitScotland, in partnership with South Lanarkshire Council, has been using social media to inspire Scots to take a short break to the region.
Targeting residents in other parts of Scotland, the activity aims to show visitors why the region is the perfect place for a winter getaway.
Among the accommodation providers being showcased as part of the campaign are Cormiston Farm’s Georgian Farmhouse, Carmichael Estate and Shieldhill Castle, all in Biggar. The experiences being highlighted include the UNESCO World Heritage Site of New Lanark, the Clyde Walkway, the Falls of Clyde and Lanarkshire Larder’s food trail.
Potential visitors inspired by the images they see as part of the campaign are then directed to visitlanarkshire.com to explore further and get still more ideas and inspiration for places to stay and things to do in the area.
VisitScotland’s regional director, Lynne Cooper, said: “While New Lanark is widely recognised among our great UNESCO World
Heritage attractions, many Scots are often surprised that an area as close to the country’s two biggest cities as South Lanarkshire also offers such a wealth of rural escapes, quality accommodation and a distinctive food and drink menu. This activity connects the huge potential of that domestic market with the quality and diversity of experiences available relatively close to home.
“Tourism is an important part of the local economy, creating jobs and sustaining communities. Promoting the area in winter helps position Lanarkshire as a year-round destination, and has the added benefit of supporting businesses at a traditionally quiet time.”
Councillor Robert Brown, chair of community and enterprise at South Lanarkshire Council, said: “This is the perfect time of year to take a break, whether it is to catch our breath, celebrate the festivities or mark a special occasion, and Lanarkshire is the perfect place to do so with the range of destinations, activities and attractions on offer – there really is something for everyone.
“Working together in partnership, we are able to ensure that visitors are given the best experience possible – and why go further when it is all on your doorstep?”
For more on VisitScotland go to www. visitscotland.org and visit https:// visitlanarkshire.com/winter-in-lanarkshire for more on what to do in Lanarkshire.