Glasgow tourism businesses, events and individuals shortlisted for Scotland's top tourist award

The Scottish Thistle Awards, with headline sponsor Johnstons of Elgin, have helped shine a spotlight on individual businesses, people and partnership working. They have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration and innovation within one of the country’s most important sectors. 

Among those who will now be in the running to be named a regional Scottish Thistle winner are Celtic Connections, Glasgow Film Festival and Hoolie in the Hydro by An Aird Events, who are all up for Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival.  

The Radisson’s Red Sky Bar at Finnieston Quay was shortlisted for Best Bar or Pub.  While Little’s Chauffeur Drive was named in the Innovation in Tourism category, sponsored by The Times Scotland 

Both Glasgow Science Centre and the Glasgow-based Walking Tours in Scotland had double reason to celebrate each earning a shortlist spot in the Best Visitor Attraction category, with Walking Tours Scotland also in the running for the Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience. Meanwhile, Glasgow Science Centre earned a place on the Climate Action shortlist.  

The World Athletics Championships, which took place in the city earlier this year, were recognised in the Celebrating Thriving Communities category, sponsored by The Scottish Sun. 

There was individual recognition for the SEC’s Hannah Cochrane who has been shortlisted for the new Rising Star Award. Sponsored by HIT Scotland, the award aims to recognise the achievements of individuals that are at the start if their career within the tourism and hospitality industry.  Finally, Fiona Campbell of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers was named the west of Scotland Thistle Awards’ Tourism Individual of the Year.  

Almost 30 entrants have been shortlisted and will go on to the West of Scotland Thistle Awards regional final which will be held at the Radisson Blu in Glasgow on 19 September. Winners at the regional finals will then battle it out at the national Scottish Thistle Awards final in November.  

Steven Walker, Chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards industry panel, said: “For over 30 years, the Scottish Thistle Awards have celebrated the very best of Scotland’s tourism and events sector. Starting with just six categories in 1992, the awards now boast eighteen categories and more than 400 past winners. 

“Winning a Thistle Award is a testament to excellence in the industry, allowing recipients to join a prestigious roll of honour. It not only raises their profile but also boosts staff morale and acknowledges their remarkable achievements.  

“Advancing to the regional finals signifies that these businesses, events and individuals are among the finest in the country, demonstrating their commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.  

“On behalf of the panel, I extend heartfelt congratulations to all regional finalists and wish them the very best of luck at the regional finals and beyond.” 

Visit Scotland Regional Director Lynne Cooper said: “It is fantastic to see such a strong representation across Glasgow in the regional finals of the Scottish Thistle Awards.    

“These entries show the strength and depth of the tourism offering in the city and surrounding areas, from quality events and experiences to examples of collaboration and innovation.  I wish all those shortlisted the very best of luck at the West of Scotland Thistle Awards.”    

The Scottish Thistle Awards champion innovation, collaboration and sustainable practices, in line with the ambitions of the national tourism strategy, Outlook 2030.    

Responsible tourism is at the heart of the Scottish Thistle Awards, supporting the aim for Scotland to be recognised globally as a leader in this field. Entrants to all  categories must evidence how they have embraced best practice covering the four key areas of a low carbon economy, inclusivity, thriving communities and Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage.   

In addition to the West of Scotland Thistle Awards, Visit Scotland delivers the Central and East Thistle Awards. The regional awards programme also includes the Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards (HITA), the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA) and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards.