Tickets are selling fast for the South of Scotland Destination Alliance’s fourth Annual Conference with guest speaker Timmy Mallet announced
Tickets are now on sale for the South of Scotland Destination Alliance’s (SSDA) fourth annual conference, a key annual gathering for tourism and hospitality in the South of Scotland with a packed programme of inspiring speakers, insightful panel sessions, and hands-on activities for guests.
Taking place on 19 March 2025 at The Peebles Hydro in the Scottish Borders, this year’s conference will feature a variety of speakers, including beloved TV personality, artist, and adventurer Timmy Mallett, who this year documented his journey cycling around Dumfries and Galloway to his social media following.
Following the unveiling of the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy 2025-2035 at last year’s conference, this year the focus will remain on the four pillars of the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy: Inspire, Develop, Responsible, and Support.
The ten-year plan was developed jointly by South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA), South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE), Scottish Borders Council, Dumfries & Galloway Council and VisitScotland with input from dozens of regional tourism and hospitality businesses and local and national stakeholders.
The conference will revolve around the four main strands of the strategy with the aim of sharing experience, learning and inspiring new local collaborations between businesses. The Responsible Tourism Strategy will underpin all agency work in the South of Scotland over the next decade.
David Hope-Jones, Chief Executive of the South of Scotland Destination Alliance, said: “Our annual conference is a vital gathering of tourism and hospitality businesses from across the South of Scotland, with opportunities for businesses to inform the SSDA’s strategy as well as an inspiring programme of speakers and activities.
“Earlier this year we revealed STEAM data showing that the South of Scotland grew its visitor economy by 20% last year and increased visitor numbers by 26%, to over 5 million, making it clear the incredible potential of ambitious collaboration.
“This year’s event will focus once again on the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy as we come together to map out the next decade of sustainable growth. Book your tickets now to have your say!”
Gordon Smith, Destination Development Director at VisitScotland, said: “The SSDA conference is a key highlight in the tourism calendar and we’re proud to once again be supporting this important industry event.
“The South of Scotland is an incredible region, with a wide tourism offering. The past year has seen international tourism return in record numbers nationwide and while there are many positive developments in the region, we know that the cost of living and doing business remains a challenge for our valuable sector.
“At this time, it is vital that we embrace these opportunities to share knowledge and seek collaboration to help us achieve the aims of the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy.”
Timmy Mallett is best known for his colourful career as a children’s entertainer on shows like Wacaday. In recent years, he has gained acclaim as a passionate painter and cycling enthusiast, combining his travels with his art and love for local stories.
Timmy Mallett said: “Exploring Dumfries and Galloway by bike has been an absolute joy – the stunning landscapes and warm, welcoming communities are truly inspiring. My journey here has fuelled my love for cycling and sparked new ideas for my artwork, capturing the vibrant spirit of this remarkable region. I’m also excited to visit Peebles to speak with South of Scotland tourism businesses about the importance of providing travellers with authentic local experiences and how storytelling is a powerful tool to attract visitors. And, with any luck, I’ll get out on my bike again to enjoy the breathtaking trails of the Tweed Valley.”
Caroline Raeburn, Hotels Manager for the Crieff Hydro Family of Hotels, said: “We are pleased to welcome the South Scotland Destination Alliance Annual Conference to Peebles Hotel once again, following on from the success of their Thistle Awards earlier this year.
“It’s a privilege to host such a key event for tourism and hospitality here in the South of Scotland. With a lineup of inspiring speakers, insightful panels, and engaging hands-on activities on offer, the conference presents an excellent opportunity to showcase the region’s dynamic tourism sector.
“As a hotel, we are committed to supporting and growing the hospitality and tourism industry, and we are proud to be part of an event that fosters collaboration and innovation. We look forward to continuing our role in championing South Scotland as a vibrant and thriving destination and can’t wait to welcome attendees in March.”
For more information visit: https://www.ssdalliance.com/conf25/
