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An award-winning Angus agritourism business is encouraging other tourism and events businesses across the county to have their time to shine by entering this year’s Scottish Thistle Awards.

Newton Farm Holiday and Tours, at Inverarity, near Forfar wants others to follow in their footsteps after being crowned Scotland’s Best Outdoor or Adventure Experience at last year’s ‘Tourism Oscars’.

For over 30 years, the awards have highlighted 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.

Louise Nicoll, owner of Newton Farm, explained how her team overcame insecurities around their business to put themselves forward for the industry’s top accolades, and wants others to do the same.

She said: “I’d encourage anyone thinking about entering in 2026 to go for it, especially if you’re sitting there thinking, ‘we’re not big enough’.

“The awards are a brilliant opportunity to reflect on what you’ve achieved in your business, and why shouldn’t you shout about it? It’s a momentous chance to showcase what you do, and it gives you that extra encouragement to keep striving and make the visitor experience the best it can be.”

Last year, more than 640 businesses, individuals and events entered, with 19 national winners crowned at a ceremony in Glasgow in November.

Louise recalls how winning their category was a dream come true.

She said: “It was somewhat overwhelming, as seen on the night by my tears, but truly in the best way. Winning the national Thistle Award was a huge moment for us, and honestly something I’ve dreamed about over the years.

“We’re always striving to improve, so to have our work recognised at a national level felt like a real ‘stop and take it in’ moment. It’s such an honour, and a reflection of how hard we all work to make every visit warm, authentic and real.”

Since the beginning of March, people across Angus have been nominating those they believe deserve recognition.

Although businesses and events need to submit a formal entry, the nomination process gives the public a chance to highlight who they feel truly deserve recognition.

Entries for the 2026 programme close on Friday, April 27. For more information and to enter, visit www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk.

Caroline Warburton VisitScotland destination development director, said: “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.”