Luxury Hotels and Iconic Stays in 2025
Scotland’s hospitality scene is undergoing a transformation, with several high-end hotel openings lined up for 2025. One of the most anticipated is the Seaton House in St. Andrews, a luxury property located near the iconic Old Course, where golf’s origins trace back to the first recorded game. St. Andrews has long been a pilgrimage spot for golf lovers, and this new addition is poised to attract those seeking a blend of history, luxury, and sport.
This is just the beginning, as other regions across Scotland are seeing new hotels catering to various tastes, from classic Scottish estates to contemporary designs that celebrate the country’s rich heritage while offering world-class amenities.
More Flights to Scotland: Increased Access for Tourists
In an effort to make Scotland more accessible to international travelers, flight options are expanding significantly in 2025. JetBlue is launching seasonal routes to Edinburgh from Boston, while American Airlines will begin offering direct flights from Philadelphia. These new connections are expected to make Scotland even easier to visit for U.S.-based travelers, further fueling the country’s popularity.
Additionally, as part of the UK’s updated travel regulations, Scotland will now require Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for visa-exempt travelers, similar to requirements for other countries like Canada and Australia. While this is a new step for tourists, it’s expected to streamline the entry process, ensuring a smooth arrival experience.
Scotland’s Set Jetting Boom
One of the more unique trends fueling Scotland’s tourism growth is set jetting—the act of visiting real-life filming locations from popular TV shows and movies. Scotland’s scenic landscapes have made it the perfect backdrop for various productions, including the wildly successful historical drama Outlander, which continues to draw visitors eager to see iconic filming locations. But Outlander is far from the only reason fans are heading to Scotland.
Recent films and shows set in Scotland, such as The Batman, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, and The Crown, have sparked even more interest in the country. According to VisitScotland’s latest survey, one in five visitors cited film, television, or literature as their inspiration for visiting the country.
Vicki Miller, CEO of VisitScotland, highlighted this trend, noting that Scotland’s portrayal on screen offers a prime opportunity to convert viewers into actual travelers. “Having Scotland on-screen is a chance for us to convert viewers into travelers and encourage them to plan a trip and explore beyond the film locations,” Miller explained. This phenomenon is likely to continue its momentum into 2025, with more visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the landscapes and stories they’ve seen on their screens.
What’s Ahead for Scotland’s 2025 Tourism?
From the grand openings of new hotels and flight routes to the rising popularity of set jetting, Scotland is poised to see a strong 2025 tourism season. Travelers will be able to explore the country’s rich history, natural beauty, and unique cultural offerings, all while benefiting from the increasing number of travel options and the continued appeal of its iconic film and TV locations.
As Scotland looks ahead to a busy year, it remains clear that its blend of historical charm, stunning landscapes, and modern amenities will continue to make it one of Europe’s top destinations for tourists in 2025.
