Tuesday March 17th 2026
Winners of 2025 Scottish Thistle Awards national final with host Jennifer Reoch
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
Tourism and events businesses across Midlothian have their time to shine as entries open for the 2026 Scottish Thistle Awards.
For over 30 years, the Scottish Thistle Awards have been shining a light on the people, places and partnerships that make Scotland such an unforgettable destination. From exceptional hotels and memorable eating and drinking experiences, to stand‑out visitor attractions and innovative events, the awards champion those who are raising the bar for the industry.
Delivered by VisitScotland in collaboration with Scotland’s regional awards programmes, the Scottish Thistle Awards bring together five regional competitions culminating in a national final later this year. Past winners credit the awards with boosting their business, increasing enquiries and inspiring staff.
Last year, more than 640 businesses, individuals and events entered from across the country, with 19 national winners crowned at a ceremony in Glasgow in November.
Since the beginning of March, people across Midlothian have been nominating the businesses, individuals and events they believe deserve recognition. Although businesses and events need to submit a formal entry to be considered for a Scottish Thistle Award, the nomination process gives the public a chance to highlight the people and places they feel truly deserve recognition.
Entries for the 2026 programme – supported by headline sponsor Abbey: The Destination Experts, part of the Abbey Group – close on 27 April.
VisitScotland Regional Director Neil Christison said:
“Across Midlothian, tourism and events businesses and individuals go above and beyond to create memorable experiences for visitors. The Scottish Thistle Awards provide a great chance to pause and celebrate that dedication. They shine a light on the enthusiasm, skill and hard work helping make our area – and Scotland – such an incredible place to visit.
“Earning a Scottish Thistle Award is a standout achievement, one that sees winners considered one of the country’s best. It’s a meaningful recognition of the positive contribution tourism brings to local people, local places and the wider visitor economy.
“Tourism and events play a vital role in Midlothian, and I’d encourage businesses, events and individuals to put themselves forward for an award. This is a brilliant moment to showcase the exceptional talent, innovation and hospitality that define our region.”
Regional winners for Central and East and West of Scotland will be announced at two finals delivered by VisitScotland in September. They will join winners from the Highlands and Islands Thistle Awards (HITA), the Aberdeen City and Shire Thistle Awards (ACSTA), and the South of Scotland Thistle Awards delivered in partnership with the South of Scotland Destination Alliance and supported by South of Scotland Enterprise, before competing for the national titles in November.
For more information and to enter, visit: www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk
Tweet Share on Facebook
