BBC’s Wild Isles series helps to put Highland and Island destinations on the map

VisitScotland stress tourism industry will be in line to capatalise from the show and on growing visitor interest in wildlife.

By Michelle Henderson

April 5 2023, 12:40 pm

Sir David Attenborough narrates the BBC series Wild Isles. Image: PA

VisitScotland says Sir David Attenborough is helping to drive traffic towards tourist hotspots across the Highlands, Islands and Grampian following the release of his latest wildlife series.

Data compiled by the agency has found that online searches for the Cairngorms, Shetland and the Outer Hebrides had soared as Wild Isles hit TV screens.

The BBC series, which showcases the wonders of the British Isles, also generated an interest in wildlife with visits to the charity’s online pages increasing by 80%.

To date, four out of the series’ five episodes have been aired.

Bosses stress the tourism industry will be in line to capatalise from the show and on growing visitor interest in wildlife.

Scottish wildlife attracts visitors to the Highlands and Grampian

Tour company Wild Discovery, based in Aberdeenshire, took part in the filming of Wild Isles.

Co-owner Rachael Iveson-Brown said: “There has undoubtedly been a rise in the number of people enjoying the outdoors and realising that nature is not only a great mental healer but also fascinating and highly enjoyable.

Rachael Iveson-Brown, co-owner of Wild Discovery based in Aberdeenshire, said: ““There has undoubtedly been a rise in the number of people enjoying the outdoors.”

“Hopefully people watching Wild Isles will now realise that they can witness world-class wildlife here in our own country and we can’t take it for granted.”

In recent years, Scotland has been ranked top in the UK for water wildlife experiences.

Research previously conducted by VisitScotland found that day trips in Scotland including wildlife and bird watching generated a collective spend of £54million.

Around 85% of Scotland’s capercaillie’s live in the Cairngorms National Park.Image: Steve MacDougall / DC Thomson

Ken Massie, VisitScotland’s head of industry development, said showcasing Highland destinations such as the Cairngorms on screen will be a huge draw to people looking to embrace the great outdoors.

“Our natural environment is one of the many things that make Scotland so special and we’re lucky that there are so many experiences across the country that let you enjoy the wonders of our wildlife in a responsible way,” he added.

“Filmed across the British Isles, Wild Isles showcases Scotland’s unique and beautiful landmarks, coastal scenery and wildlife to audiences and potential visitors from around the UK.

“For many communities, screen tourism, where viewers are inspired to visit locations after seeing them on screen, has brought opportunities to grow the local visitor economy and encourage a wider spread of visitors throughout the year.”