Research conducted by Global Tourism Solutions, using the Scottish Tourism Economic Activity Monitor (STEAM) model, highlighted 1.3 million visitors explored Angus in 2024, showcasing Angus as the perfect place to escape the everyday, all year round.

Headline figures show:

• Angus tourism value has increased 6.7% from 2023 to £326m.
• Visitor numbers have increased by 8.3% from 2023 to 1.3m.
• The number of staying visitors has risen to 460,000 (compared to 458,000 in 2023).
• The number of day visitors continues to rise, increasing by 13.3% from 2023 to 807,000 visitors. The number of day visitors is now 30.2% above pre-COVID-19 estimates.
• Tourism supports 4,029 full-time equivalent jobs, up 8.2% from 2023.

Jill Paterson, service leader for planning & sustainable growth at Angus Council, said: “These figures show that Angus is increasingly being recognised as a year-round destination, whether for outdoor adventures, coastal escapes, or cultural discovery.

“We’re thrilled that tourism continues to support thousands of local jobs while showcasing all our region has to offer.

“Day visitors alone generated nearly £64m, an 18.7% increase from the previous year and an incredible 71.4% rise from 2019. It’s a testament to the strength of our destination marketing and the appeal of our towns, glens, and coast.”

Ms Paterson continued: “But it’s not just about the numbers; it’s also about the jobs and opportunities this growth is creating for local people.

“We’re working hard to make sure that Angus is not only a great place to visit but also a great place to live.

“With more and more people visiting Angus, we’re proud that the visitor activity and spend supports more than 4,000 full-time equivalent jobs locally, which is an 8.2% increase from the year before. This supports our aim to make Angus a great place to live, work, and visit.”

The non-serviced accommodation sector continues to flourish, contributing over £148m to the local economy. Angus’s flexibility in accommodation and experience offerings has been a major factor in its steady recovery and growth since the pandemic.

Cllr Derek Wann, depute leader of Angus Council, added: “Through Visit Angus and initiatives like the Insider’s Guide to Angus, the Visit Angus app, and The Angus Tour, we’ve given visitors the tools to uncover the region’s gems – from world-class food like the Arbroath Smokie to immersive rural and heritage experiences.

“The demand for scenic landscapes and cultural experiences is particularly encouraging, reinforcing Angus as a destination of choice for those seeking authenticity, adventure, and peace.”

Collaboration across public and private sectors has been essential to this growth. Caroline Warburton, destination development director at VisitScotland, commented: “Tourism remains a hugely important sector for Angus.

“The impact of tourism is felt beyond the holiday experience, powering a visitor economy that creates jobs, investment, and helps improve where people live and work.

“Angus has so much to offer visitors. From its beautiful landscapes and rich built heritage to its delicious food and drink, it is well-placed to capitalise on global travel trends linked with the great outdoors and wellness. We’ve worked closely with Angus Council and Angus Tourism Cooperative to develop the region’s brand which will further help strengthen its position as a must-visit destination.”

Invest in Angus remains committed to supporting the tourism and hospitality sector, ensuring continued investment, sustainable growth, and a warm welcome for every visitor.

Data was gathered by Global Tourism Solutions (GTS) from analysing accommodation occupancy, visitor attraction data, as well as figures from local festivals and events, venues, and transport providers. The full report can be read here.