Survey results show rise in visitors to Orkney

February 11, 2014 at 10:09 am

Visitor numbers to Orkney increased last year. — Visitor numbers to Orkney increased last year, many of which were interested in the history of the islands.

The number of visitors to Orkney has risen, along with levels of visitor satisfaction.

The recently released Islands Visitor Survey shows that just over 142,800 people visited Orkney spending over £31 million in the local economy over the period of a year.

The survey took place between October 2012 and September 2013 and saw 1,328 visitors being interviewed as they departed from Orkney.

The questions asked covered a broad range of topics, including what influenced them to visit, how they planned and booked their trip, where they stayed, what attractions they visited and what activities they participated in during their time in Orkney.

Overall satisfaction levels with their visit to Orkney were very high, with 87% of visitors being “very satisfied” and 12% being ‘fairly satisfied’.

The main influence on visitors deciding to come to Orkney was an interest in the archaeology and history of Orkney, followed by the fantastic scenery and landscape.

• Cruise liner passengers numbers were not included in the survey.