Agritourism Conference - last chance to book

Lisa Paton

Are you a farmer or crofter considering diversification but not sure where to start? Are you in the tourism, hospitality or the food and drink business and keen to benefit from the growth of agritourism in Scotland? Or just curious to find out more?

Agritourism isn’t just about all types of holiday accommodation on a working farm or croft, but includes a whole range of events and activities for education, entertainment and leisure: tours, trails, weddings, festivals, pop up food events, farm cafes and restaurants, farm shops and on-line shops selling produce, pick your own, sports and adventure sports, play parks, crop mazes, tractor rides, horse rides, animal feeding, lambing, llama walks…

It’s a growing sector and, at the forthcoming Scottish Agritourism Conference, Cabinet Minister for Rural Affairs and the Islands, Mairi Gougeon, will officially launch the Scottish Government Agritourism Growth Strategy.

The Conference is taking place at Perth Concert Hall on 9 & 10 November but – thanks to the Scottish Rural Network – it’s being streamed live so anyone anywhere can take part for free. So, no need to travel or take time out – and you can just attend the sessions that suit.

Day 1 will showcase sector innovation and new product development from businesses in the sector, from those people who have been participating in the Scottish Enterprise Agritourism Monitor Programme. Sessions will also look at good practice in sustaining and running a family business and rural job creation and employment opportunities.

Day 2 will see the launch of the Scottish Government's Agritourism Growth Strategy by Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Islands. This will follow with sessions on market demand for agritourism and insights into consumer trends from red meat to sustainable tourism, and research and data on agritourism from home and abroad.

With a range of inspirational and expert speakers, there’s something for everyone – so book your free space today. We very much look forward to seeing you (virtually) there!