Pubs in Scotland urged to support tourism drive

The Scotland’s Pubs and Bars – A Story to Tell Campaign, a joint initiative between The Scottish Licensed Trade Association (SLTA) and VisitScotland is calling on venues to share colourful stories ranging from mythical hauntings and famous historical patrons.

Up to 100 pubs with the most appealing accounts will feature on a dedicated website, accompanying app and daily updates on social media.

Drinking holes with literary connections, those that have appeared on the silver screen, launched the career of a band, or perhaps occupy the remotest pub location in mainland Britain are among those encouraged to enter.

“The vast majority of Scottish pubs and bars have individuality and character all of their own and many have a unique, interesting, entertaining story to tell,” Paul Waterson, chief executive of the SLTA said.

“The SLTA, together with Diageo, Tennent’s and VisitScotland, are going to make use of these great stories to publicise the fact that our licensed trade premises continue to be the heart and soul of the Scottish social scene and a real selling point for tourism.”

Landlords and customers will be able to make their nominations online, and each venue will be required to put forward a member of staff as their resident ‘storyteller’, who can regale customers with tales of the establishment’s background.

Peter Lederer, director of Diageo Scotland, added:  “Scotland is recognised internationally for its world class hospitality. Up and coming events such as the Commonwealth Games, Homecoming and the Ryder Cup provide a fantastic opportunity to extend a warm welcome to even more people and to build on this reputation.”