Farms, crofts, estates and smallholdings across Perthshire are being encouraged to take part in a new survey aimed at highlighting the growing importance of agritourism to Scotland’s rural economy.
The Scotland’s Agritourism Survey 2025, commissioned by VisitScotland on behalf of the National Agritourism Strategy Board, will measure the scale, value and potential of the sector, which includes any form of tourism or leisure activity taking place on a working farm, croft or estate producing food or fleece.
Agritourism and farm retail are seen as vital to the future of Scottish agriculture, showcasing local produce, sustainable practices and family-run enterprises while also creating rural jobs. The sector currently contributes around £60 million a year to the economy, but under national strategy targets this figure could rise to £250 million by 2030, supporting nearly 10,000 full-time jobs.
Next year, Scotland’s reputation as a global agritourism destination will take centre stage when Aberdeen hosts the Global Agritourism Conference. The findings of this year’s survey will help shape the next phase of the national strategy and inform future support for the sector.
Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said:
“Agritourism is already making a real difference to Scotland’s rural economy, contributing around £60 million, and the Scottish Government is determined to build on that success. Our strategy sets out an ambitious goal to grow the sector to £250 million by 2030, involving 1,000 farms and crofts across the country.
The Global Agritourism Conference is a great opportunity to show what Scotland has to offer and for the sector to learn from international peers. I look forward to seeing the survey results and the fantastic progress being made.”
Vicki Miller, Chief Executive of VisitScotland, added:
“From fruit picking and farm shops, to farm stays, weddings and events, the diversity of Scotland’s agritourism offering is a vital part of our national story. The sector’s continued growth presents huge opportunities for both agriculture and tourism.
If we want to ensure agritourism flourishes sustainably, it is important that we build a clear picture of its impact and potential.”
Alison Younger of Old Leckie Farm, a National Agritourism Strategy Board representative, also urged businesses to take part:
“We know agritourism contributes significantly to the rural economy, local communities and our farming businesses. To continue securing government support, we must come together and demonstrate that agritourism and farm retail really count in Scotland.”
The survey is open to all farms, crofts, estates and smallholdings currently involved—or considering involvement—in agritourism or farm retail. Responses are anonymous, and the deadline is 15 September.
To take part, visit: https://tinyurl.com/VisitScotlandAgritourism
