The combination of the Icelandic ash cloud and ongoing economic crisis could create another bumper summer for Dundee’s leading tourist attractions, it has been claimed.
Exhibitions and museums director Gill Poulter said Discovery Point and Verdant Works are hoping to add to the surge in visitor numbers they saw last year.
She was speaking after the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA) predicted a busy summer for the country’s tourist attractions.
Despite one of the coldest winters in years, visitor numbers experienced only a slight drop during the first few months of the years and the group believes continuing economic difficulty and uncertainty over air travel could see more Britons holidaying at home. ALVA director Robin Broke said, “2010 has provided many challenges for Britain’s tourist attractions as they compete with the elements to bring visitors through their doors.
“Our members are confident that they have everything in place for Britons to enjoy a great summer in the UK, avoiding the uncertainty and hassle of disrupted flights.
“As ever, Britain’s tourist attractions will rise to the challenges ahead and remain optimistic.”
Discovery Point and Verdant Works recorded a 9% increase in visitor numbers last year compared to 2008 and Ms Poulter said they are optimistic they will exceed that total again.
She said, “Last year our visitor numbers were up to around 65,000 and we are hopeful that we will see some benefit from people holidaying at home and looking to do things here.”
Ms Poulter added that the centenary of the start of the Terra Nova expedition to reach the South Pole, led by Captain Scott, would help boost numbers.
She said, “We have an exciting temporary exhibition starting to coincide with the Terra Nova centenary so we are hoping that will bring in additional visitors.”
Meanwhile, tourism businesses in Dundee and Angus have been urged to enter the Scottish Thistle Awards this year.
VisitScotland’s regional director Richard Pinn said, “There are many fantastic visitor experiences throughout Dundee and Angus, from top-quality accommodation to fine dining, from events to guided tours and it’s time we spoke up about them.”