Great Tapestry of Scotland Centre Sees Record Low Visitor Numbers
Great Tapestry centre's annual visitor figures lowest on record

Image: The Bbc
The Great Tapestry of Scotland centre in Galashiels recorded its lowest annual visitor numbers since opening, with only 20,962 visitors in 2025/26. Despite this decline, Live Borders plans to enhance the attraction, which features 160 panels depicting Scotland's history.
- 01Visitor numbers dropped to 20,962 in 2025/26, a 6% decline from the previous year.
- 02The centre, which opened in 2021, has consistently failed to meet the projected 50,000 annual visitors.
- 03The £6.8 million centre showcases 160 panels detailing 420 million years of Scottish history.
- 04Live Borders stated that the decline aligns with broader tourism trends in the Scottish Borders region.
- 05Future plans are in place to improve the visitor experience at the centre.
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The Great Tapestry of Scotland centre in Galashiels has reported its lowest annual visitor figures since its opening in 2021, with only 20,962 visitors recorded in the year 2025/26. This marks a decline of approximately 6% from the previous year, continuing a trend where visitor numbers have not reached the anticipated 50,000 annually as projected in a 2016 business case. Despite the downturn, the centre remains the third most popular attraction operated by Live Borders, following the Mary Queen of Scots visitor centre and the castle jail museum in Jedburgh. The tapestry centre, which cost £6.8 million to establish, features 160 panels that chronicle 420 million years of Scottish history and culture. Catriona McAllister, chief executive of Live Borders, noted that the visitor numbers reflect broader tourism trends in the region, which is currently facing economic challenges. However, she expressed optimism for the centre's future, mentioning several exciting plans aimed at enhancing the visitor experience.
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The decline in visitor numbers could affect local tourism and economic activity in Galashiels and the surrounding areas.
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