Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Swipe for next article

Independent Bulletin homepage

Download our
Social Partner

We are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)

City approves the most expensive tourist tax in UK

Tourists in Aberdeen may have to pay an extra fee when visiting following the approval of a seven per cent visitor levy by councillors — Tourists in Aberdeen may have to pay an extra fee when visiting following the approval of a seven per cent visitor levy by councillors (PA Archive)

Aberdeen City Council has approved a 7 per cent visitor levy on overnight stays in the city, set to be implemented no earlier than April 2027.
This 'tourist tax' is higher than the 5 per cent rates approved in Edinburgh and Glasgow earlier this year.
The council anticipates the levy could generate up to £6.8 million annually, which will be used to enhance leisure and business tourism and invest in infrastructure.
The charge will apply to various accommodations including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and campsites, but excludes cruise ships and motor homes.
The move follows the Scottish Government's legislation allowing local authorities to introduce such levies, with Aberdeen aiming to compete with other European cities in attracting tourism.

Aberdeen approves new tourist tax from 2027 – here’s how much it could cost you — In full