In Scotland, agritourism is defined as tourism or leisure on a working farm, croft, or estate that produces food or fleece. 

Agritourism and farm retail play a vital role for agriculture, showcasing farm produce and sustainable farming practices to visitors on Scottish farms in every corner of the country. The sector is hailed as a significant driver of Scotland’s rural economy, creating jobs, and sustaining vital family employment.  

The survey, undertaken by VisitScotland, on behalf of Scotland’s National Agritourism Strategy Board, has been designed to help inform future support for the sector by recognising the scale, impact, and future potential, with the findings ensuring that the economic, cultural, and social benefits of agritourism are fully counted, recognised, and protected. 

The survey is open to all farms, crofts, estates, and smallholdings currently operating—or considering—agritourism or farm retail and all responses are anonymous. 

Rural Affairs Secretary in the Scottish Government Mairi Gougeon said:

“Agritourism is already making a real difference to Scotland’s rural economy, contributing around £60 million, and the Scottish Government is determined to build on that success. Our national strategy sets out an ambitious goal to grow the sector to £250 million by 2030, involving 1,000 farms and crofts across the country. 

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