Could the Scottish Borders and Dumfries & Galloway become the new Cornwall – without the crowds?

New research has revealed that holidaymakers, from staycationers to international tourists, are missing out on a wealth of hidden gems across the south of Scotland, including its stunning beaches and coastline, high-quality local food and drink, adventurous activities, and nature and wildlife.

A recent survey of more than 3,400 people across the UK says the south of Scotland has many of the attractions that draw crowds to such tourist hotspots as Cornwall and the Cotswolds. However, many tourists are simply unaware of just what the area has to offer.

The research was commissioned by the South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA) which has a range of initiatives to attract more holidaymakers from Scotland, other parts of the UK and overseas.

Scotland’s south is home to: 7 Stanes mountain bike trails; Drumlanrig Castle; Moat Brae in Dumfries, which was home for a time to Peter Pan writer JM Barrie; and Annandale, Bladnoch and Borders distilleries. Visitors can also take in the Border Abbeys of Jedburgh, Melrose, Kelso and Dryburgh; Abbotsford, the home of Sir Walter Scott; the Great Tapestry of Scotland in Galashiels; and Loch Trool to name just a few attractions.

Find out more about the Scotland Starts Here campaign along with inspiration for things to do and see in the region at: www.scotlandstartshere.com