The number of domestic tourist visits to Scotland from within Great Britain rose 9% to about 12.9 million in the year to the end of September, the Scottish Government said.

Domestic overnight visits account for about 80% of all tourism visits to Scotland.

The Great Britain Tourism Survey showed expenditure on domestic tourism visits — visitors from Scotland, England and Wales staying for at least one night — rose by 14% to about £3.2 billion over the year.

Domestic and overseas visitors to Scotland totaled 15.5 million for the year to September, a rise of 7%.

“This is an excellent set of figures that shows Scottish tourism goes from strength to strength,” said tourism minister Fergus Ewing.

” … despite last summer’s washout weather, over a million more visitors came to Scotland, spending 8% more compared to the year before.

“That’s solid proof that people are prepared to come here to enjoy our natural assets, tourism attractions and quality experiences, and to spend in our hotels, shops and restaurants.

“With world class events like last year’s British Open at St Andrews, and a hugely successful Year of Food and Drink, these figures are something to celebrate.

” … We must keep the momentum going. In 2016, the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design, the industry has a further opportunity to showcase the best of what Scotland has to offer.”

Mike Cantlay, chairman of VisitScotland said: “Scottish tourism continues to thrive and grow despite a backdrop of difficult economic trading conditions hitting the travel industry throughout the world.

“Many thought 2014 would be the big year for Scottish tourism, but I’m thrilled to see a continuing strong performance in 2015.”