SCOTS are well-known around the world for being friendly, so it should come as no surprise that one of the country’s towns has been voted the UK’s Most Welcoming Destination for 2023 by Booking.com
As part of its 11th annual Traveller Review Awards, the online accommodation giant voted Kirkwall in top spot, up from its number two position last year.
The largest town in the Orkney archipelago, its people are renowned for their friendliness and for making sure visitors feel right at home.
The destination has something for everyone and it’s easy to see why it bagged the coveted No 1 title.
You can soak up the Viking history and heritage, wallow in the stunning natural beauty and local wildlife on one of the island’s many nature or beach walks or indulge in fine seafood, whisky and entertainment.
With so much natural beauty and stunning nature on your doorstep you won’t need to spend much money to enjoy yourself here!
Book a stay at Highland Park House. Set in an impressive Victorian mansion and furnished throughout with antiques, it is located in the countryside, a short drive from Kirkwall town centre, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Ring of Brodgar.
Surrounding the property are panoramic coastal views, hills to climb and beaches to stroll along.
It receives consistently high reviews on Booking.com’s site, and offers comfortable beds, a full Scottish breakfast, and, of course, a warm welcome to all guests. It also hosts a programme of events, including art courses and tours.
Party-town Newcastle came a comfortable second in the top 10 list, with Newry in County Down third.
Enniskillen, in Northern Ireland came in fourth (holding on to its place in the table from last year) and no wonder, it’s stunning!
Located in the centre of County Fermanagh, it’s surrounded by picturesque scenery, vast lakes, and natural beauty.
When you’ve had your fill of landscapes and walks – or if you need a wet-weather option – you can visit a castle, gallery, museum, or even a cosy café, and soak up Enniskillen’s warm hospitality.
Check in to Willowbank House and wake up to a delicious home-cooked and locally sourced breakfast whilst you admire the views of Lough ErneSpend the day exploring the local area.
Explore the nearby Marble Arch Caves, visit Enniskillen Castle, or take a trip to Devenish Island. You won’t have to travel far to see the best of the area, and you’ll soon see why Enniskillen keeps featuring in Booking.com’s top destinations year on year.
Another stunning Scots town also graced the top 10 – Pitlochry in Perthshire. coming in at number 5 thanks to the locals who welcome visitors with open arms, offering advice on where to go and what to see with a genuine smile.
Lying on the River Tummel, Pitlochry is on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park, which is great for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.
So, if you’re looking for a ski trip without breaking the bank, you may find a ski staycation is cheaper than flying abroad.
Try a stay at Craigmhor Lodge & Courtyard. This place has won multiple awards and you’ll soon see why.
Located in private woodland, this period property puts you at the heart of nature in the centre of Pitlochry. Admire the mountain views from the sun terrace, take a stroll by a fast-flowing river, go for a bike ride or a round of golf at Pitlochry Golf Course.
Your hosts will extend a warm welcome each morning, offering guests a delicious traditional cooked breakfast, and can even arrange picnic hampers for you to take out for a day in the mountains.
Another Irish town, Ballycastle in Country Antrim came sixth, Glastonbury was seventh, helped by its festival fame, and Stamford in Lincolnshire, with its pretty 17th century buildings and no fewer than five medieval churches, and warm locals came eight, with Frome in Somerset ninth and making up the top 10 is Cleethorpes in Lincolnshire.
Booking.com also unveiled the Most Welcoming Destinations on Earth for 2023, all selected for consistently providing outstanding hospitality, from more than 240 million verified reviews from travellers.
Polignano a Mare in Italy came first, followed by Hualien City in Taiwan, San Sebastian in Spain, Dresden in Germany and Klaipeda in Lithuanian at number five.
See the full list at Booking.com