New figures have revealed the north-east experienced a “bumper year” for tourism in 2016.
National agency, Visit Scotland, has reported the number of people turning out to its information centres across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire rose by more than 3% compared to last year.
Footfall also increased by 10% at the Braemar centre and more than 1% at Aberdeen.
Last night, the organisation predicted the success was likely to continue into next year, with a number of key projects in progress or nearing completion, including the AWPR, the new AECC and the Aberdeen airport expansion.
Jo Robinson, regional director, said: “These developments will mean new businesses, new access routes and dozens of new reasons to visit Aberdeen, as well as being a commitment to the future success of the city.
“I have been following these projects with interest over the summer and look forward to working in partnership with others to maximise their collective impact for the city over the coming months and years.”
A number of local businesses were also recognised by the organisation’s quality assurance scheme, including Royal Deeside’s Raemoir House Hotel and Potarch and Callater lodges.
And the Peterhead Prison museum, which has attracted more than 45,000 visitors since June, was among the other sites to gain their first stars under the initi.
Ms Robinson added: “The team behind the prison’s transition into a visitor attraction has managed to sensitively portray over 200 years of history, telling the stories of the prison guards who worked with some of the country’s most dangerous and feared criminals.
“This project also fits perfectly into 2017 – Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology.
“I am delighted visitor numbers reflect the hard work of the museum staff, and look forward to seeing this attraction continue to develop the outstanding experience offered to visitors.
“I have visited several times and each time I have taken away something different – it’s an experience that stays with you a long time after visiting.”
