VisitScotland has teamed up with Edinburgh Napier University and Whitespace, to turn Scotland’s historic landmarks into new virtual reality experiences with a ScotlandVR app.
The new app will allow visitors to discover a digital 3D world, exploring an initial 26 sights around Scotland, such as Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum of Scotland, the Forth Bridges, Glasgow Cathedral and the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Also included are Scotland’s world heritage sites. All the landmarks can be seen via the app’s 360 degree tours.
The ScotlandVR app has been launched alongside a tourism campaign highlighting Scotland’s history, heritage and archaeology, and funded by the Scottish Government and the Heritage Lottery Fund.
VisitScotland’s Chief Executive Malcolm Roughead said that, “far from being a fad or gimmick, virtual reality is revolutionising the way people choose the destinations they might visit by allowing them to ‘try before they buy’ and learn more about the country in an unique and interactive way.
“We’ve no doubt that once people get a taste of the spirit of Scotland through ScotlandVR, they will be booking a holiday to experience our stunning landscapes and attractions in the flesh.”
According to research, almost two thirds of destination searches are conducted on mobile phones. Fiona Hyslop, Scottish Tourism Secretary said “This virtual reality app provides people across the globe with a window into Scotland’s fantastic attractions. It will, I hope, inspire more people to discover Scotland for real. There has never been a better time to come to Scotland and experience our world class destinations and historic buildings and monuments.
“A team from Edinburgh Napier University developed the concept for this app, which demonstrates the pioneering spirit and ingenuity of Scotland’s academic, technology and tourism sectors.”
The app is available free on Google Play and the Apple Store.
https://www.scotsman.com/future-scotland/tech/visitscotland-launches-virtual-reality-tours-of-scots-landmarks-1-4378500
