Scotland is a well-developed tourist destination, with tourism generally being responsible for sustaining 200,000 jobs mainly in the service sector, with tourist spending averaging at £4bn per year. In 2013, for example, UK visitors made 18.5 million visits to Scotland, staying 64.5 million nights and spending £3.7bn. In contrast, overseas residents made 1.58 million visits to Scotland, staying 15 million nights and spending £806m. In terms of overseas visitors, those from the United States made up 24% of visits to Scotland, with the United States being the largest source of overseas visitors, and Germany (9%), France (8%), Canada (7%) and Australia (6%), following behind.
Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland's most visited attractions
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow
Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline
Loch Ness
Golf in Scotland was first recorded in the Scottish late Middle Ages, and the modern game of golf was first developed and established in the country. The game plays a key role in the national sporting consciousness.
The Old Course at St Andrews
Old Tom Morris with Young Tom Morris ca. 1870-75
The MacDonald boys playing golf by the 18thC portrait painter Jeremiah Davison
The 18th hole at Carnoustie, Angus, Scotland.