The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Busy year of transactions for Oban Estate Agents

Busy year of transactions for our Oban Estate Agents

It has been a busy year of transactions for our Oban Estate Agency. Operating across Argyll & Bute and the Inner Hebrides our west coast property experts have continued to witness a surge in the demand for second homes and holiday retreats. Buyers are looking properties that offer an escape from urban life, with a focus on outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing and water sports. The region’s rice history and cultural attractions further enhance its appeal, making it a popular choice for both domestic and international and buyers.

There is an increasing interest in reviving old properties while preserving their original charm. This trend aligns with a growing appreciation for sustainable and eco-conscious living, as restoration often involves repurposing existing materials.

Here is a selection what our Oban Estate Agents have sold in 2023.

Craighrannoch, Ballachulish

Guide Price £800,000.

Set in a picturesque, secluded coastal location on the shores of Loch Leven and on the fringe of the coastal village of Ballachulish, Craighrannoch is a traditional stone villa, perfectly positioned to enjoy the panoramic views.

Cuilcheanna & Cuilcheanna Cottages, Onich

Guide Price £1,045,000.

Cuilcheanna presented a wonderful lifestyle opportunity for the right buyer with a five-bedroom family home and four well established holiday cottages, located within the ever-popular coastal village of Onich. This property offered an excellent opportunity to escape city life with an established holiday business and substantial income potential.

Achavaich, Connel

Guide price £495,000.

This beautifully presented traditional farmhouse with converted barn, set in a much sought-after location on the fringe of the coastal village of Connel and benefitting from far reaching views across the local countryside. This beloved family home offered buyers idyllic family life and carefree rural living coupled with easy access to the thriving coastal hub at Oban.

Our Oban Estate Agents are looking for similar properties to sell across Argyll & Bute and the Islands. If you are thinking of moving, discuss our market appraisal contact Andrew Fuller on 01631 566122 or email andrew.fuller@bellingram.co.uk.

[staff_member id=’3266′]
The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

High quality of life still fuelling Highlands & Islands property market

High quality of life still drawing buyers to the Highlands & Islands

Bell Ingram’s Highland Estate Agency team reflect on 2023 as the Highlands & Islands region continues to experience high demand caused by the rise of remote work. As more professionals embrace flexible work arrangements, there is a growing interest in properties that offer a high quality of life in a remote setting. Waterfront homes, cottages with sea views, and properties nestled in nature are becoming coveted choices for those seeking a quieter and more serene lifestyle.

Here is a selection of what our Highland Estate Agents have sold in 2023.

7B Drimisdale, Isle of South Uist

Offers over £525,000.

7B Drimisdale presented buyers a beautiful four-bedroom architect-designed house with studio annexe and approximately 14.17ha (34acres) of croftland in a peaceful lochside location on the Isle of South Uist. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts this property’s idyllic location overlooked Loch Stilligarry which hosts a variety of rare and beautiful species.

Burnside of Enzie, Buckie

Offers over £335,000.

Burnside of Enzie offered buyers an immaculate steading conversion with four en-suite bedrooms set in the tranquil, rural location of Clochan near Buckie. The steading was built to the highest standard with quality oak finishing throughout.

Cuil Breac, Elphin

Offers over £300,000.

Nestled in the dramatic landscape of Elphin in the Scottish Highlands, this former croft house is a mountain lover’s dream home. Packed with character, the cottage included a recently completed extension which has wonderful living space where one could sit back and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains and lochs.

Ty Cymro, Isle of Berneray

Offers over £180,000.

This unique property was one of a handful of traditional thatched black houses remaining on the islands. Rare to market this property was brimming with charming features and breath-taking views. Ty Cymro presented the perfect island home filled with charm and a great opportunity for buyers looking to enjoy an idyllic rural lifestyle.

Bay Cottage, Carinish

Offers over £325,000.

Bay Cottage is an exceptional modern and stylish design-led two bedroom waterside eco house located on the island of North Uist. Completely renovated and extended to the highest standards with unique, high-quality features and finishings throughout.

Our Beauly Estate Agents are looking for similar properties to sell across the Scottish Highlands and Islands. If you are thinking of moving, discuss our market appraisal contact Joanne Stennett on 01463 717799 or email joanne.stennett@bellingram.co.uk.

[staff_member id=’3364′]
Rural Land Management Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Heat in Buildings Bill – Potential impact on privately let residential properties in Scotland

Heat in Buildings Bill – Potential impact on privately let residential properties in Scotland

Anyone involved in Scottish residential property management has been growing increasingly frustrated by the limited information available around the reform of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in Scotland.

Initial legislation was drafted in 2019 but binned in 2021 due to Covid, and since then landlords and property managers have been left in limbo, knowing that changes to the minimum standard are coming but not knowing when they might come into force or what they might involve.

However, more detail emerged this week when the Scottish Government opened the consultation on the proposals for Heat in Buildings Bill.

This consultation confirms that the Government plans to require private landlords to meet a minimum energy efficiency standard by the end of 2028, and by the end of 2033 owner occupied homes will also need to meet a minimum energy efficiency standards.

So, what will the minimum energy efficiency standard be?

For years now, it has been known that a minimum EPC score is incoming but there has been a lack of clarity on how this might be achieved, and if there are going to be any exclusions or if there is going to be a price cap.

This new consultation proposes that minimum energy efficiency standards can be met by installing a straightforward list of measures. This list would be developed to ensure the biggest impact with the lowest degree of cost and disruption. It is important to note that the consultation says:

“Any homeowner who had installed these measures – or as many of them as are feasible for the type of home they live in – would be considered to have reached a good level of energy efficiency and meet the new standard.”

This is reassuring as it confirms that not all proposed measures will need to be met in every single property. The consultation suggests that the list could be:

  • 270mm loft insulation

  • Cavity wall insulation

  • Draught-proofing

  • Heating controls

  • 80mm hot water cylinder insulation

  • Suspended floor insulation

Many landlords and homeowners will have made energy improvements to their properties already; therefore this consultation proposes that alongside the above measures, there could be an alternative option of meeting these standards based on the result of an EPC assessment.

It is proposed that owner occupied homes that have ended their use of polluting heating, gas or oil for example, by 2033 will not be required to meet the minimum energy efficiency standard. However, private rented properties would still be required to meet the minimum energy efficiency standard, even if a clean heating system is already in place.

Finally, there is a hint of clarification around the consequences to landlords if their properties do not meet a minimum energy efficiency standard. The consultation proposes that properties in the private rented sector which do not meet these standards by the end of 2028 would not be allowed to be leased to a new tenant should the existing tenant leave.

The consultation on the proposals for Heat in Buildings Bill began on 28th November 2023, and is due to close on 8th March 2024.

The consultation can be read in full here.

Please contact Bell Ingram’s Rural Land Management team on 01738 621 121 if you have any questions and would like to discuss how this may impact your properties.

[staff_member id=’15041′]
The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

The balancing act of juggling care with career

Juggling care and career: Why supporting carers in the workplace is the right thing to do

My lovely mother-in-law describes her 50s, 60s and 70s as her “golden years”. As she keeps reminding my husband and I: “Your father and I were travelling the world when we were your age, or we were out and about meeting friends or at the bowling club.”

And so they were! Able to draw their pensions (state and private) at 60 and 65-years-old respectively, they enjoyed a long, happy and comfortable retirement unencumbered by caring responsibilities either for each other or for their parents who had passed away decades beforehand.

At 57, my “golden years” on the other hand are shaping up somewhat differently. Since May 2022 when my mum (86) collapsed with sepsis from a urinary infection, I’ve been sharing her care and that of my 92-year-old father, who has late-stage prostate cancer, with my younger sister (53), who is herself recovering from cancer treatment. Both mum and dad are now housebound and require 24-hour support which includes everything from meal preparation to toileting.

Fortunately, we were able to access a council care package for mum, which means two carers visit four times a day, but my dad is still waiting to be assessed. To pick up the slack and allow our much-loved parents to remain in their own home, my sister has given up her full-time job to be their primary carer with me staying over 48 hours each week to give her a break.

Added to this are my caring responsibilities for my mother-in-law who, despite living quite independently at 93-years-old, was widowed during the Covid lockdown and requires help with shopping and all the other bits and pieces that become so much more difficult when we get that little bit older.

Throughout all of this my job as Marketing Manager at Bell Ingram has been a lifeline, not just financially (as my husband was forced to retire earlier than expected due to a stroke), but as a means of living a life outside caring. Just having a natter with other people and hearing the banter of office life is a real tonic when things are rough at home.

I consider myself extremely lucky to work for a company which believes that supporting carers is the right thing to do and this ethos has allowed me to stay in a job that I love and progress my career.

It’s important to stress that Bell Ingram doesn’t just pay “lip-service” to carer inclusion. In practical terms, my boss has given me the green light to work from my parents’ home two days a week which has been a game-changer. Instead of driving back and forward from Perth to Glasgow twice a week, I now have a home office in their flat where I can do a full day’s work, while still being available to cook meals, let in doctors and carers, and keep an eye on them during the night.

Being a carer can be overwhelming at times and I also count myself blessed to work with people who have been amazingly supportive when I’ve had a bit of a tearful meltdown in ladies’ loo or on one mortifying occasion while serving drinks at our stand at the Royal Highland Show!

I am also part of Bell Ingram’s Carer Network which was formed recently as a platform for colleagues who identify as carers to talk frankly about the challenges of juggling our caring responsibilities with our working lives.

We met for the first time on Teams earlier this month and I found it really helpful to share my experiences with people who fully appreciated the physical and emotional toll of caring for loved ones.

It was also a chance to share information about the support that’s available from local or national charities, benefits that can be claimed, and tips on how carers can maintain their own well-being.

I know it’s a cliché but the last three years have been a rollercoaster for me and my family, and it’s taught me to be grateful for what I’ve got, to celebrate the small wins and not dwell on the future. I may not be travelling the world like my in-laws did at my age, but I have my family, my friends and a job I love … and that’s more than enough.

 

[staff_member id=’3301′]
The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Exploring the current trends in Scotland’s rural property market

Exploring the current trends in the Scotland’s rural property market

The Scottish property market is known for its unique blend of historic charm and natural beauty, making it a sought-after destination for both local residents and international investors. Within this picturesque landscape, several regions stand out as hotspots for real estate activity. In this article, we will delve into the current trends shaping the property markets of Perth & Kinross, Highlands & Islands, and Argyll & Bute. From scenic landscapes to cultural heritage, these areas offer a wealth of opportunities for those looking to buy or invest in Scottish real estate.

  1. Perthshire: Bridging the Gap Between Urban and Rural

Perthshire’s property is witnessing a rising trend of buyers seeking a balance between urban conveniences and rural tranquillity. Properties that offer proximity to city amenities while being surrounded by the region’s stunning landscapes are in high demand. The market also shows an inclination towards eco-friendly and sustainable homes, as buyers prioritize energy efficiency and green living.

  1. Kinross-shire: The Appeal of Community Living

Kinross-shire’s real estate scene is seeing a surge in demand for properties that promote community living. With a focus on shared spaces, recreational facilities, and social activities, developments that foster a sense of belonging are gaining popularity. Additionally, the region’s connectivity to nearby cities adds to its attractiveness for both commuters and families seeking a suburban lifestyle.

  1. Highland & Islands: Remote Work and Lifestyle Shifts

The Highland and Islands region is experiencing a significant shift due to the rise of remote work. As more professionals embrace flexible work arrangements, there is a growing interest in properties that offer a high quality of life in a remote setting. Waterfront homes, cottages with sea views, and properties nestled in nature are becoming coveted choices for those seeking a quieter and more serene lifestyle.

  1. Argyll & Bute: Second Homes and Holiday Retreats

Argyll’s real estate market is witnessing a surge in the demand for second homes and holiday retreats. Buyers are looking for properties that offer an escape from urban life, with a focus on outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and water sports. The region’s rich history and cultural attractions further enhance its appeal, making it a popular choice for both domestic and international buyers.

There is an increasing interest in reviving old properties while preserving their original charm. This trend aligns with a growing appreciation for sustainable and eco-conscious living, as restoration often involves repurposing existing materials.

Carl Warden, who heads up Bell Ingram’s Estate Agency Service, concludes: “The rural markets are each driven by unique trends that cater to diverse buyer preferences. Whether it’s the blend of urban and rural living, the focus on community, the allure of remote lifestyles, the appeal of second homes, or the fascination with heritage properties, these regions offer a range of options for those interested in Scottish real estate. As these trends continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly shape the future landscape of the Scottish property market, attracting a wide array of investors and homeowners alike.

“Remember that property trends can shift quickly, so it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest developments if you’re considering entering the market in any of these captivating Scottish regions.”

[staff_member id=’3397′]
Rural Land Management Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Examining the pro and cons of overhaul of EPC system in Scotland

Examining the pros and cons of overhaul of EPC system in Scotland

In the quest for a greener and more sustainable future, the Scottish Government’s ongoing consultation on Domestic Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) reform is a welcome step.

At present, one fifth of Scotland’s greenhouse gas emissions comes from our buildings so improving the efficiency of these buildings is vital if we are to achieve net zero by 2045.

Retrofitting our homes to be more efficient not only lowers emissions but also makes them more comfortable and affordable to heat. However, there is a significant monetary cost required to do this and any retrofit must be thought out and assessed to future proof the building.

As our clients and their tenants closely follow these developments, let’s examine why reform is needed and the pros and cons for both parties.

Why is reform needed?

The current RdSAP methodology that determines an EPC score is undoubtedly flawed. Presently, the EPC score is modelled on running costs meaning a property heated via oil fired central heating scores higher than a property heated via efficient electric heaters. If EPCs are to be used to benchmark efficiency to help reach net zero, they must first improve accuracy and make relevant and suitable recommendations. RdSAP 10 will be released in early 2024 and will be introducing changes to the methodology to improve accuracy.

What do the Scottish Government propose?

The Scottish Government proposes to revise the information on domestic EPCs and expand the current metrics. This would separate the certificate into a Fabric Rating, Cost Rating and Heating System Type along with a separate section consisting of the Emissions Rating and Energy Indicator. This would allow for more accuracy while presenting clearer information. Another important aspect to note is that the proposals include reducing the validity of an EPC from 10 years to 5 years.

Pros for Landlords

Increased Property Value: Stricter EPC standards and an accurate methodology would allow properties to be more energy efficient and cheaper to run. Properties being heated correctly could limit maintenance requirements in regard to condensation issues such as mould and damp.

Compliance with Regulations: In the next few years, there will be a minimum EPC requirement to let residential properties. Though dates have not yet been confirmed having a proactive stance could mitigate any potential penalties in the future.

Cons for Landlords

Upfront Costs: Undertaking energy-efficient improvements requires a financial investment. Landlords might face challenges in covering the initial expenses of retrofitting properties with more efficient technologies.

Tenant Resistance: Installing insulation and new heating systems can be disruptive and may require properties to be vacant while improvements are being carried out. Tenants may be hesitant due to potential disruption during renovation periods.

Pros for Tenants

Reduced Energy Bills: Stricter EPC standards would lead to more energy efficient properties, leading to lower utility bills.

Enhanced Comfort: Being able to heat properties correctly and affordably would reduce the risk of mould and condensation issues in the winter months. This reform could contribute to healthier, cosier home for tenants.

Cons for Tenants

Rent Increases: Due to the significant costs required to retrofit properties, it is likely that rents would need to be increased to help cover the upfront costs.

Limited Choices: Not all landlords will be able to or desire to improve the efficiency of their properties which could see a decline in available properties on the rental market. Rural, stone-built properties may never be able to achieve a high scoring EPC which could lead to an even scarcer supply of rural homes available to rent.

Conclusion

Reforming EPCs could be a significant stride towards creating a more energy efficient future. While the pros and cons are clear for both landlords and tenants, it is crucial to recognise that that retrofitting properties is essential for combating climate change and advancing sustainable living. Though we have focused on residential properties, the consultation also covers commercial buildings.

Home Energy Scotland can provide financial support in some cases for both landlords and tenants. Scotland’s Domestic EPC reform consultation closes on 10th October 2023. If you would like to discuss any of the proposals, please contact Bell Ingram and we will be happy to assist you.

[staff_member id=’15041′]
Conservation, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Bell Ingram Design plays key role in £1.6m restoration project of Braemar Castle

Bell Ingram Design plays key role in £1.6m restoration project

After 18 months under lock and key, Braemar Castle opened its doors in late summer to reveal a startling transformation.

The structure has been restored to its former glory with its turrets, towers and curtain wall rendered in a traditional oatmeal shade, while the castle’s treasured collection has been returned to a now wind and watertight interior.

This soft opening marks a key moment for Braemar Community Ltd., whose volunteers have carefully unpacked the Castle’s treasured items, from the smallest pieces of cutlery to giant four-poster beds.

Bell Ingram Design has been at the heart of the £1.6 million project to restore the A-Listed landmark to its former glory, with conservation architect Susan Burness heading up the team alongside main contractor Harper & Allen Masonry.

Susan Burness said: “The restoration work is a key milestone in the wider plans to transform Braemar Castle and its Estate into a cultural destination and top-class visitor attraction that compliments the amazing landscape and helps promote Braemar as a learning and engagement hub.

“It is an extraordinary building with a fascinating history, and it’s been an honour to work with Braemar Community Ltd. to deliver such an important community project.

“I believe that the work we have done will future proof the building and allow the Trust to preserve the furnishings and artworks which call Braemar Castle home.”

Most of the work was focussed on the external fabric of the building, which included structural repair, and the re-harling and lime-washing of exterior masonry and the curtain wall in an oatmeal colour which was based on a small sample of historic lime wash which was uncovered when the cement harl was removed.

Susan continued: “The restored building reflects the original colour, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the Castle. Essential interior works, including electrical upgrade, window repairs and drainage upgrade, now provide a more appropriate environment for the collections stopping any further detrimental effects and providing a more pleasant environment for visitors.”

Fog House

Earlier this year, Bell Ingram volunteers spent three days picking heather on the Deeside hillside at Invercauld Estate.

Their job was to collect 80-bales of heather for professional thatcher Brian Wilson to use as material to re-roof a small decorative garden feature – known as the Fog House – in the grounds of Braemar Castle.

The volunteering days were the brainchild of Iain Cram, Director of Bell Ingram Design, who is part of the team restoring the Castle.

Iain said: “The restoration of the Fog House marks an important milestone in the ongoing transformation of Braemar Castle and its grounds to ensure its long-term protection for the enjoyment of visitors from all over the world.

“We are proud to do our part to ensure the survival of this important building for future generations and our partnership with Braemar Community Ltd. has also given our employees a great opportunity to volunteer and make a positive difference to the community.

“Volunteering days like this are a fantastic boost to our conservation and outdoor learning efforts as well as promoting a sense of wellbeing and connection between our staff and the places where they work.”

About Braemar Castle

Braemar Castle, located at the Haughs of Dee, has been an army barracks, family home and visitor attraction since it was built in 1628 by John Erskine, the 6th Earl of Mar as his Highland hunting lodge.

It was a target in the first Jacobite uprising in 1689 and torched by John Farquharson of Inverey. Following the Battle of Culloden, the castle was used as a garrison for Hanoverian soldiers to suppress any lingering Jacobite support.

The castle was gifted to Braemar Community Trust Ltd. on a 50-year lease by owner Captain Alywne Farquharson, 16th Laird of Invercauld and Chief of Clan Farquharson, in 2007. Since then, it has been managed by the Braemar Community Ltd., its interior kept just as it looked when the laird was in residence.

The community group, supported by the help of an anonymous benefactor, helped secure the contents of the castle and the volunteers raised half a million pounds, locally and from generous private donors, which bolstered major funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Historic Environment Scotland to make the Castle wind and watertight and safeguard its future.

Raising The Standard Project

The £1.6m restoration is part of the castle’s Raising the Standard Project, which has been supported by The Prince’s Foundation, who acted as advisors to Braemar Community Ltd throughout the project.

As well as conserving the fabric, developing the landscaping and work to make the castle more accessible, the project aims to innovatively re-interpret the castle’s story and introduce new opportunities for learning and engagement, and to elevate the castle’s visitor experience creating to a top-class attraction.

Initiatives include a new website, online booking and presence on the Bloomberg Connects app alongside more than 200 places of interest around the world, placing Braemar Castle on the international radar. Together with this sits a full programme of activities including outreach within the wider area and events to be held at the castle which engage the community with the heritage on its doorstep.

The castle’s rebirth has also received royal backing: The Prince’s Foundation has had an advisory role throughout the project development, while a young student linked to its Building Craft Programme has been hands-on removing the old cement harling and applying traditional lime replacement.

Find out more at www.raisingthestandard.org.uk

[staff_member id=’3247′]
Rural Land Management Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Meet the Land Agent: Catherine Lawson

Meet the Land Agent: Catherine Lawson

Life as a Bell Ingram Land Agent offers variety and progression says Senior Associate, Catherine Lawson.

What is your background?

I am from a farming background and grew up on a farm in North Yorkshire.

Once I left school I went to the Scottish Agricultural College at Auchincruive in Ayrshire to study Rural Tourism. After I graduated I worked at a grain lab in Bedfordshire, having spent all my summers before and during my Degree doing the same. I quickly realised I needed office experience if I wanted to move away from seasonal grain lab work and I got a job as a receptionist and typist at a holiday park company.

While working for that company I quickly realised I wanted to work in the rural/agricultural sectors and in particular the rural surveying sector.

What qualifications did you need to become a Land Agent?

I needed to have a RICS accredited qualification to be able to work towards my RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC).

Having obtained a non RICS accredited University of Glasgow First Class Rural Tourism honours degree at the Scottish Agricultural College (now SRUC), I went on to complete a Post Graduate Diploma in Surveying through the College of Estate Management which gave me the necessary accredited qualification. This was completed part time via distance learning, while I also worked full time.

What’s been your career path?

I was given a great opportunity working as a Farm Secretary in Leicestershire for a national firm of Surveyors while I completed my Post Graduate Diploma. This gave me a lot of experience in all the administration involved in farm and estate management, as well as a greater knowledge of the rural property sector. It also made me realise that I had chosen the right career path and I knew that I wanted to go on and qualify as a Chartered Surveyor.

Once I completed my Post Graduate Diploma I planned my move back to Scotland and accepted a job at Bell Ingram as an Assistant Land Agent, based in the Perth office. I passed my APC and CAAV exams two years later in November 2016 and then moved to the Forfar office in June 2019 where I am now a Senior Associate.

What’s the biggest misconception of the job?

I think alot of people assume that we are always out of the office visiting clients and properties. While we are fortunate to do this a lot, we actually spend the majority of our time in the office, writing reports and providing advice. Now, with the use of Microsoft teams/zoom we find ourselves out of the office even less as online meetings become easier and more time efficient for everyone involved.

What do you enjoy about the job?

The variety of the workload is one of the best parts of the job. You never know what your day will bring and where in the country it might take you. There are often times when you are driving to a property or walking around some fields, that you have to remind yourself that you’re actually being paid to be there.

It is also a great feeling when you know the advice you have given or the report you have written has helped someone achieve their goals too.

At Bell Ingram I think we are very fortunate to have a great network of colleagues who are all happy to help and share their knowledge and experiences, which can be really useful when dealing with tricky or unusual situations. There is also a really positive workplace culture which makes turning up to the office, even on a sunny Monday morning, enjoyable.

What’s your advice to those thinking of entering the profession?

Do it! If you have a love for the countryside and are looking for great career progression opportunities and variety in your work then it’s definitely a profession you should consider. The enjoyment you get from it can’t be matched.

For more information about becoming a Land Agent and Life  at Bell Ingram contact careers@bellingram.co.uk

 

[staff_member id=’3293′]
Planning & Development Page, Rural Land Management Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News, Tourism Page

Guest Blog: Agritourism to play a key role in driving Scotland’s rural economy

Agritourism to play a key role in driving Scotland’s rural economy

By Caroline Millar, Scottish Agritourism Sector Lead

Scotland’s agritourism sector has ambitious plans to provide the same level of economic impact to the rural economy that many other countries enjoy.

Agritourism includes three main activities based on a working farm or croft – farm retail, farm accommodation and day experiences.

Farm retail, the direct sale of food and drink from farms either in a farm shop, honesty hut or online, accounts for an estimated £110 million of economic value to the sector.

Holidays on farm and day experiences are estimated to be valued at £60 million.

Farmstays now include a vast range of accommodation types from luxury lodges to glamping and campsites, and also include the traditional farmhouse B&B that many people think of when they think of a farmstay.

Day experiences are where the sector is seeing increasing demand, particularly from the travel trade who organise private tours for couples and groups. Experiences include farm tours, seasonal events such as pumpkin festivals, eating in a farm café or restaurant, adventure sports and weddings.

The definition of agritourism varies from country to country. The Scottish definition of agritourism is: “Tourism or leisure on a working farm, croft or estate which produces food.”

The sector body, Scottish Agritourism, was established in June 2020 to formally bring together a strong network of farmers, crofters and suppliers to the sector, to offer peer to peer business support, consumer marketing and representation. Scottish Agritourism has a board chaired by Riddell Graham, formerly Head of Partnerships, Visit Scotland. While working on behalf of the entire sector, Scottish Agritourism is also a membership organisation.

The agritourism sector is much wider than farmers and crofters at its core. Businesses providing professional services and advice, construction companies and a range of suppliers needed to run a successful enterprise are just some examples of the wider agritourism supply chain that are playing a vital part in the growth of the sector.

The Scottish Government’s programme for government in May 2021 included an action to produce and implement a strategy to grow agritourism in Scotland. The strategy was part of a 100-day commitment action. The strategy was developed with a working group made up of private sector and public sector leaders, and also included input from international experts in agritourism. It was launched at the Scottish Agritourism conference in November 2021.

Scottish Agritourism as a sector body plays a vital role in representing private sector businesses in agritourism with the national strategy roll out. Three representatives from Scottish Agritourism sit on the implementation board including Caroline Millar, Sector Lead for Scottish Agritourism and Co-Chair of the board alongside Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and the Islands, Mairi Gougeon. The strategy aims to have 100 farmers and crofters in agritourism by 2030 and to increase the economic impact from £170 million to £250 million per annum.

Find out how Bell Ingram can help you achieve your Agritourism dream here.

[staff_member id=’2670′]