Scotland has ranked top in the UK for water wildlife experiences, a new survey has revealed.
YouGov* research, which we commissioned as part of the Year of Coasts and Waters 20/21, discovered that two thirds of UK adults think Scotland is the best part of the UK for exploring:
- rivers (60 %)
- opportunities to see dolphins and whales (34%) and
- watching coastal wildlife (32%).
The survey showed that the most popular activity for UK adults on holiday in Scotland to help them relax and unwind, would be walking along a deserted beach. This was considered the most popular by 63% of respondents.
The total sample size of this research was 2103 adults.
Previous research which we commissioned has shown that day trips that include watching wildlife/ bird watching generated a collective spend of £54 million.
As the season changes, there are plenty of places for people to learn about the many creatures living in and around our coasts and waters and how to enjoy nature in a responsible way.
Some suggested locations for your visitors include:
- Loch of Kinnordy, Angus. This shallow loch – an RSPB nature reserve - is situated in a natural basin surrounded by farmland and attracts all types of wildlife. Wintering populations of whooper swans, pink-footed and greylag geese return from their northern breeding grounds making it a great place to wildlife watch at this time of year.
- Coastal Connection, Argyll. Trips that provide a great way to get on the water and combine history with nature with plenty of wildlife and local castles to spot. Visitors can also stop off at islands including Mull, Lismore, Iona, Staffa, Treshnish and many more.
- WDC Scottish Dolphin Centre, Moray Speyside. With free entry, a visit to the WDC Scottish Dolphin Centre is a great day out participating in a range of activities and it also gives you the opportunity to learn all about the whales and dolphins that are regularly seen in the Moray Firth.
- Wild Eskdale, Dumfries and Galloway. Offering a range of wonderful wildlife experiences and tours in Scotland. The hills, rivers and valleys around the town of Langholm provide plenty of things to see and do during the tours. With three rivers meeting in the town, be on the lookout for kingfisher, goosander, grey heron and possibly even otters.
- Scottish Seabird Centre, East Lothian. The award-winning attraction looks over the incredible Bass Rock which is home to the largest colony of northern gannets in the world. The centre offers guided tours including coastal wildlife walks and educational trips around climate change with boat trips available again next year between April and the end of September.
- Willowgate Kayak Tours, Perth. Experience Perth from a different perspective by taking this kayak tour along the River Tay with a qualified guide. Check out the local wildlife including herons and beavers as you paddle under the city’s bridges. Plus navigate your way around Moncrieffe Island, home to the only island-based golf course in Scotland.
- In Our Nature, Scottish Borders. Personalised guided tours for people of all abilities; on foot, by car or by boat. The tours include a seal spotting cruise, seashore and seabird safaris plus a nature ramble through Berwickshire countryside.
Other recent findings from our research highlighted that a desire to connect with nature and the outdoors the motivation for over 50% of visitors as the reason they travelled to Scotland as restrictions eased last year.