VisitScotland has launched an iPhone app in association with Historic Scotland the National Trust for Scotland, aiming to capitalise on Scots holidaying at home.

The free-to-download ‘Days Out’ app aims to increase the popularity of days out for Scots, without leaving the country, and is a pilot project as part of the latest Winter White campaign.

The app aims to inspire visitors and locals with the ‘Inspire Me’ button which allows users to provide their location and then shake their phone before it offers ideas for activities within the users local area.

This will include activities from partners Historic Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland, VisitScotland Information Centres, ASVA attractions, and a selection of Quality Assured visitors.

Stephen Duncan, head of commercial and visitor operations said “We’re delighted to be involved in this project as we recognise the increasing importance of digital media and its ability to engage visitors to help them make the most of their stay. 

“Testing the app in the marketplace is part of our wider commitment to embrace digital technology opportunities to deliver visitor information in a more innovative way.”

Meanwhile, Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland, added: “The new app is not just great news for the visitor, but for the industry too. Working in partnership with more than a thousand tourism businesses involved, we’re helping showcase Scotland’s wealth of attractions and ultimately bringing more custom to their door - all for free. Every penny spent on a day out is ultimately pumped back into our economy and helps ensure the sort of tourism growth which is critical to the future of Scotland.”