New video to ‘Power Up’ Scottish tourism

A new film with a retro video-game twist will inspire families and young people to explore Midlothian and the Scottish Borders, according to VisitScotland.

Game On! Midlothian and the Scottish Borders, a collaborative content project between the two regions, takes visitors on a journey through some of the top attractions and activities in both areas while playing on the familiar conventions of many classic games. The project was delivered by the national tourism organisation as part of their marketing activity with Midlothian and Scottish Borders Councils.

Developed by Whitespace and filmed by HeeHaw productions, the video features the likes of Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Rosslyn Chapel, 7stanes Glentress and Born in the Borders. These attractions are accompanied by point-of-view shots, collectable trinkets and the iconic 8-bit music synonymous with games like Super Mario Bros and Zelda.

VisitScotland have also produced a supporting blog which features the film and details 25 activities for families and young people across the two regions. The national tourism organisation believes this innovative and engaging content will encourage visitors to choose Midlothian and the Scottish Borders for their next Scottish break or day out.

The project is particularly apt as Scotland celebrates the Year of Young People 2018. The latest of the Scottish Government’s series of themed years, it looks to inspire Scotland through its young people aged 8 to 26, celebrating their achievements, valuing their contributions to communities and creating new opportunities for them to shine locally, nationally and globally.

Neil Christison, VisitScotland Regional Director, said: “With beautiful scenery, remarkable history and world class attractions, both Midlothian and the Borders have so much to offer. This wonderful new content showcases some of each region’s best attributes, while also giving us a nostalgic reminder of the video games we’ve always loved.

“It’s been great to work with both Midlothian and the Scottish Borders Council on this exciting project. VisitScotland champions collaboration and spearheads digital innovation to promote local areas and ensure they experience the benefits tourism brings.”

Councillor Russell Imrie, Midlothian Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Tourism, said: “This new film demonstrates an innovative approach to tourism promotion, showcasing a range of exciting family attractions across the region. By working in partnership with VisitScotland and Scottish Borders, we expect to attract many more first time and return visitors to Midlothian, with its stunning locations, fascinating heritage and so much for all the family to see and do.”

Councillor Mark Rowley, Scottish Borders Council’s Executive Member for Business and Economic Development, said: “This innovative marketing campaign will particularly appeal to young families, especially those where the parents grew up playing classic video games.

“The Scottish Borders has so much to offer visitors, especially those looking for fun and adventure and to explore. This campaign highlights many of the Borders great attractions, activities and experiences that can be enjoyed in our castles, towns, countryside and coast.”

To view the video go to www.youtube.com/watch?v=EN2FWVXnnW8

To read VisitScotland’s blog go to www.visitscotland.com/gameon

The full list of attractions and activities featured in the video and blog are:

Born in the Borders

Midlothian Snowsports Centre

Ryze Trampoline Park

Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World

Abbotsford

Rosslyn Chapel

Traquair

Jedburgh Castle Jail and Museum

7stanes Glentress

Edinburgh Combat Challenge

Go Ape! Peebles

Roslin Glen

Vogrie

Dalkeith Country Park

Lasswade Stables

St Vedas Surf School

Eyemouth RIB Trips

Gunsgreen House

Dalhousie Castle Falconry

National Mining Museum Scotland

Crichton Castle

Ryze Adventure Park

Thirlestane Castle

Floors Castle

Dawyck Botanic Garden

Kailzie Gardens

Rock UK Whithaugh Park

Rolling Haggis

Beirhope Farm