Spotlight on Scotland’s Tourism Stars - Entries Now Open for the 2026 Scottish Thistle Awards
Businesses and events across Scotland are being encouraged to step into the spotlight as entries open for the 2026 Scottish Thistle Awards.
Businesses and events across Scotland are being encouraged to step into the spotlight as entries open for the 2026 Scottish Thistle Awards.
For over 30 years, Scotland’s “Tourism Oscars” have been shining a light on the people, places and partnerships that make Scotland such an unforgettable destination. From exceptional hotels and memorable eating and drinking experiences to stand‑out visitor attractions and innovative events, the awards champion those who are raising the bar for the industry.
Delivered by VisitScotland in collaboration with Scotland’s regional awards programmes, the Scottish Thistle Awards bring together five regional competitions culminating in a national final later this year.
In 2025, more than 640 businesses, individuals and events entered from across the country, with 19 national winners crowned at a ceremony in Glasgow in November.
Since the beginning of March, people across Scotland have been nominating the businesses, individuals and events they believe deserve recognition. Although businesses and events need to submit a formal entry to be considered for a Scottish Thistle Award, the nomination process gives the public a chance to highlight the people and places they feel truly deserve recognition
Entries for the 2026 programme - supported by headline sponsor Abbey: The Destination Experts, part of the Abbey Group - close on 27 April.
Barbara Smith, Chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards Industry Panel, said: “Across Scotland, tourism and events businesses continue to deliver exceptional experiences for visitors, helping to shape Scotland’s reputation as a must‑visit destination. The Scottish Thistle Awards are a fantastic opportunity to celebrate that dedication and to highlight the innovation, talent and passion that drive our industry forward.
“Winning a Scottish Thistle Award is a remarkable achievement and a powerful endorsement. I would encourage anyone who feels they represent the very best of Scotland’s tourism and events sector to enter and showcase the incredible work taking place across the country.”
Regional winners will be announced at events taking place in September before moving forward to the national final.
For more information and to enter, visit: www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk
Image Credit: Connor Mollison / VisitScotland
