With the Scottish Thistle Awards National Final just around the corner, we're proud to be sponsoring the Best Visitor Attraction award and celebrating five outstanding attractions from across Scotland.
On Friday 20 November, Scotland's tourism industry will come together at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre for the 2026 Scottish Thistle Awards National Final.
The awards recognise the people and businesses that make Scotland such a fantastic place to visit, and we're delighted to be supporting a category that's particularly close to our hearts.
As a visitor attraction ourselves, we know how much work goes into creating a great experience. From the people welcoming guests each day to those working behind the scenes, it's a real team effort.
This year's five regional winners represent a wonderful mix of Scottish tourism, from historic houses and interactive attractions to distilleries and wildlife experiences on the water.
Let's meet the finalists!
Central & East: Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh
A familiar favourite at the top of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions has been entertaining visitors for generations.
With five floors of interactive exhibits, optical illusions, puzzles and hands-on experiences, there's plenty to keep visitors of all ages entertained. Its historic Camera Obscura show and rooftop views across Edinburgh add to the experience.
West of Scotland: Jackton Distillery, Glasgow
Jackton Distillery brings together Scottish spirits, local heritage and a strong sense of community.
The team prides itself on offering a genuine welcome to visitors, sharing the stories and craftsmanship behind its spirits. Its regional award is recognition of the hard work and dedication of the people behind the business.
Aberdeen City & Shire: Glen Garioch Distillery, Inverurie
In the heart of Aberdeenshire, Glen Garioch Distillery offers visitors the opportunity to discover the traditions and craftsmanship behind Highland single malt whisky.
With a long history of whisky production in Oldmeldrum, the distillery gives guests an insight into one of Scotland's best-known industries and the people who keep its traditions alive.
Highlands & Islands: Seabirds-and-Seals – The Original Noss Boat, Shetland
The Original Noss Boat takes visitors out to experience Shetland's remarkable marine wildlife, including the seabird colonies around the Isle of Noss.
It's a very different boating experience from our cruises on Loch Ness, but one that shares our enthusiasm for helping visitors experience Scotland from the water.
South of Scotland: Abbotsford – The Home of Sir Walter Scott, Melrose
The former home of one of Scotland's most celebrated writers, Abbotsford offers visitors a fascinating insight into the life and legacy of Sir Walter Scott.
Situated near Melrose in the Scottish Borders, the house, gardens and estate bring together Scottish history, literature and heritage, with plenty for visitors to discover.
Wishing all five finalists the very best of luck!
From Shetland to the Scottish Borders, these five attractions show just how much variety Scotland has to offer visitors.
We're proud to sponsor the Best Visitor Attraction category at this year's Scottish Thistle Awards and would like to congratulate each of the regional winners on reaching the national final.
We look forward to celebrating with everyone in Edinburgh on 20 November and wish all five finalists the very best of luck.
Find out more about the Scottish Thistle Awards and this year's regional winners at www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk.