VisitAberdeenshire News - January 2026
The whole VisitAberdeenshire team were thrilled to see that our former chair, Claire Bruce awarded with an MBE for services to tourism in the North-east in the King’s New Year Honours List. This is in recognition of her continued commitment to responsible, sustainable and inclusive tourism across the region. At the helm of Glen Tanar Estate, Claire champions environmentally conscious approaches to conserve natural landscapes while driving growth in the region. Claires’ unwavering passion extends across communities and cements her as longstanding ambassador for rural tourism – Congratulations Claire!
Have You Seen It? The New VisitAberdeenshire Website is Now Live
With a completely redesigned layout to improve user experience and create seamless journeys, the visitabdn.com site aims to inspire from initial consideration stage to the moment they leave. Meanwhile, encouraging those more locally to also explore the North-East of Scotland. Local businesses can benefit from greater visibility and stronger promotion of experiences, events and offerings helping to drive engagement, bookings and footfall.
Alongside the main visitor site, we’ve also launched our new Content Hub, Business Community (Industry site), Travel Trade and Aberdeen Convention Bureau websites, making it easier than ever to access information and resources.
Our priority now is to update content across the site with inspirational text and imagery so keep an eye out for more updates as we head into 2026.
If you would like to list your business on our new website or have question about managing your listing, contact a member of the Tourism Development team.
VisitAberdeenshire's Annual Consumer Research: Regional Perceptions
The annual survey examines visitor intentions, behaviours and attitudes, providing VisitAberdeenshire and tourism and hospitality businesses with valuable insights into what motivates visitors and how they perceive the region.
The latest findings reveal that Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are commonly perceived as traditional, beautiful, and rich in culture and heritage, with accommodation options to suit all budgets. These positive descriptors can be leveraged to reinforce existing perceptions, align with visitor expectations, and inform product development, marketing and messaging
To review the findings, including regional perceptions, visit here or to discuss the insights in more detail, contact Deirdre O’Donnell.
Further highlights, including a deeper dive into the findings, will be shared over the next few months throughout industry communications.
Want to know how insights can support your business?
Preparing for the 2026 Cruise Season
In 2025, Aberdeen welcomed 65 cruise ships and over 43,000 guests and crew, a remarkable 79% increase in visitor numbers from 2024. With even more cruise ship calls expected this year, it’s a good time for local businesses to consider how to engage with this growing market.
Our Cruise Ready Toolkit can help you understand the local cruise market, available opportunities, and how to deliver an outstanding onshore experience.
If you would like to discuss further Cruise opportunities, contact Rachel Smith
Meet Our New Foundation Apprenticeship Students
The Tourism Development team, led by Kayleigh Mcleish, welcomes Amelie Robertson, from Oldmachar Academy, who is undertaking a Business Skills Foundation Apprenticeship course at North-East Scotland College. During her placement, Amelie will have the opportunity to gain insight into how a busy tourism organisation operates and build confidence in real-world business skills.
Reflecting on her first month with VisitAberdeenshire Amelie states “Every day someone made sure I knew what I was doing and when, which really helped me settle in here.”
Left-Right: Rachel Smith, Amelie Robertson, Kayleigh McLeish and Stacey Milne.
Creative and Digital Media student Oliver Raine, from Dyce Academy, recently joined the Marketing team, led by Ashleigh Pirie. His placement aims to provide first-hand experience in the visitor economy while developing skills in digital content and creative thinking.
After one month at VisitAberdeenshire, Oliver’s standout highlight has been the opportunity to complete research-based tasks, supported by helpful feedback from the team.
VisitAberdeenshire is thrilled to work alongside North-East Scotland College to help young people gain valuable hands-on experience and insights into the tourism industry through work-based placements.
Left-Right: Oliver Raine, Ashleigh Pirie, Maryn Reid and Chris Foy.
Upcoming VisitAberdeenshire Events
NEWS FROM OTHER ORGANISATIONS
Scottish Tourism Month – The Signature Conference 2026
Scottish Tourism Month kicks off in March with a fully curated programme of events, including the inaugural two-day Signature Conference. Held on 9 – 10 March, this must-attend event is designed for anyone working in, or supporting, Scotland’s tourism and hospitality industry. The conference provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on progress while exploring pathways to sustainable development and future growth.
Early-Bird Tickets are available for a limited time – secure yours before 2 February.
'Spectrafy' Your Business – Apply Now for £500 Funding
The Festival of Light, Spectra returns from 5-8 February with Aberdeen City Council inviting local businesses to ‘Spectrafy Your Business’ with a one-off £500 grant. An initiative, funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, it aims to extend visitor time, spend and enjoyment by promoting experiences pre and post event.
Applications close: 18 January 2026
Sign-up
Your go-to resource for the latest news, insights and updates for tourism and hospitality businesses across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. Stay informed about events, workshops and opportunities to help your business thrive in the region’s vibrant visitor economy.
