The Scottish Thistle Awards return for 2025

Get ready to honour the best in Scotland’s tourism and events industry as the Scottish Thistle Awards return for 2025.

For over 30 years, these prestigious awards have celebrated the very best of Scotland’s tourism and events industry, recognising the outstanding achievements of businesses and individuals who make Scotland a top destination for visitors.

Nominations are now open and entries for businesses will open on 17 March 2025.

Key dates for your diary

• Nominations: 3-31 March 2025
• Entries open: 17 March 2025
• Entries close: 28 April 2025
• Regional finalists announced: July 2025
• National-only categories announced: August 2025
• Regional award ceremonies: September - October 2025
• National award ceremony: November 2025

This year’s programme includes 15 regional categories and three national-only categories, highlighting Scotland’s exceptional people, accommodation, food and drink, outdoor experiences, visitor attractions and events. The national-only categories will spotlight Scotland’s excellence in sporting events, business events, and luxury experiences. 

Responsible tourism remains at the heart of the Scottish Thistle Awards, supporting the aim for Scotland to be recognised globally as a leader in this field. As well as the dedicated Climate Action Award, every entry will be required to provide evidence on how their businesses addresses key areas of responsible tourism. 

Winners from each of the five regional ceremonies will go on to compete for the national title in their category. 

For more information, and to get the nominations in for our incredible Fife Businesses - you can read more here: VisitScotland Thistle Awards 2025