SCOTTISH COUNTRY SPORTS TOURISM AWARDS 2024 CELEBRATE SECTOR LEADERS

The chairman of the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC), Eoghan Cameron, has paid tribute to the leaders of Scottish tourism at the Scottish Country Sports Tourism Awards 2024. The ceremony, held at the BASC stand at the GWCT Scottish Game Fair at Scone Palace, recognised significant contributions to the country sports tourism sector in Scotland.

Organised by BASC’s Country Sport Scotland division, the awards highlighted the winners’ roles in promoting responsible and sustainable tourism and their efforts in conservation. Cameron praised the recipients: “Each recipient sets a benchmark for excellence in responsible tourism practices and environmental stewardship, ensuring Scotland’s continued appeal as a premier destination for country sports enthusiasts. Congratulations again to all of the winners and to all of those nominated in the awards.”

Peter Clark, BASC Scotland director, emphasised the awards’ importance in recognising the sector’s dedication and excellence. “Country sports are a vital component of Scotland’s tourism industry, and these awards are a testament to the relentless efforts and ingenuity of those who propel this sector forward,” he stated.

Neil Christison, regional director of VisitScotland, discussed the broader impacts of country sports on Scotland’s tourism economy. “Country sports contribute significantly to Scotland’s tourism economy. This sector not only attracts thousands of visitors from across the world, but also supports local communities, preserves natural habitats, and promotes responsible and sustainable tourism practices,” he noted, adding that the awards underscore the tourism sector’s importance and its potential for future growth.

Selena Barr, co-founder of Fieldsports Press and one of the award judges, highlighted the global recognition of Scotland’s country sports. “Country sports tourism plays a pivotal role throughout Scotland, so it is immensely important to shine a light on those that are going the extra mile. Top drawer game shooting, fishing and deer stalking is something that is universally associated with Scotland worldwide,” she said.

The winners of the awards were as follows:

Best Sporting Estate 2024

Kingairloch Estate

Best Sporting Agency 2024

International Hunting Scotland

Best Sporting Innovator 2024

Twin Peakes Fly Fishing

Best Sporting Accommodation 2024

Buccleuch Arms

Best Sporting Retailer 2024

Campbell’s of Beauly

The ceremony also highly commended several contributors for their excellence in the country sports tourism sector:

• Findrack Sporting

• Gordon Castle Estate

• R. Macleod & Son

• SAC Sporting

• Logiealmond Estate