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Accommodation sector partners

4 minute read • Last updated: 25 February 2025

A strong network of organisations supports Scotland’s accommodation sector, helping businesses improve quality, attract more visitors, and stay competitive. These organisations provide expert guidance on regulations, marketing, and sustainability while offering training and industry insights.

From B&Bs and hostels to self-catering properties and holiday parks, they help businesses adapt and grow to deliver the best guest experiences possible. 

In this article:

  • Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers
  • The Scottish Bed & Breakfast Association
  • British Holiday & Home Parks Association
  • Hostelling Scotland
  • Scottish Hostels

Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers

The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) is the leading organisation representing self-catering accommodation in Scotland.

It provides its members with expert guidance on regulatory compliance, marketing strategies, and sustainable practices. The ASSC also offers a suite of resources aimed at enhancing guest experiences and improving operational efficiency, helping self-catering businesses thrive in a competitive market. 

Find out more from Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers. 

The Scottish Bed & Breakfast Association

Well lit and spacious living room area in a self catering property

Well lit and spacious living room area in a self catering property

© Highland Spaces

The Scottish Bed & Breakfast Association (SBBA) is dedicated to supporting bed and breakfast establishments throughout Scotland.

Affiliated with the UK Bed & Breakfast Association, the SBBA advocate at a local, national and international level, ensuring the interests and needs of B&B owners are represented and addressed within the broader tourism industry. 

It equips members with valuable resources to enhance marketing efforts and operational efficiency, while also improving guest service standards.

Find out more from Scottish Bed & Breakfast Association. 

British Holiday & Home Parks Association

The British Holiday & Home Parks Association (BHHPA) represents over 2,900 holiday, residential, and home parks across the UK. This association is committed to advancing the interests of park owners by providing expert guidance on legislation, effective marketing strategies, and sustainable practices.

They offer a wealth of resources to help park owners navigate the complexities of park management, including advice on environmental stewardship, planning permissions, and health and safety regulations. The association also lobbies on behalf of its members to influence policies that impact the parks industry, ensuring that the sector's needs are considered at a government decision-making level.  

Find out more from British Holiday & Home Parks Association. 

Hostelling Scotland

Exterior of Youth Hostel

Pitlochry Youth Hostel

© SYHA / Samantha Grant

Hostelling Scotland is a not-for-profit charity with over 60 youth and affiliate hostels.

Affiliates of Hostelling Scotland can promote their business through Hostelling Scotland’s website, map and digital handbook, as well as feature in their regular emails. There is also the opportunity to feature your hostel on the Hostelling International website, thereby increasing exposure to global individual and group travel

Being a Hostelling Scotland affiliate also gives access to their central reservations team, who can provide information and handle enquiries on your behalf.

Find out more about becoming an affiliate of Hostelling Scotland.

Scottish Hostels

Scottish Hostels is an organisation of independent hostels, bunkhouses, backpackers and activity accommodation providers in Scotland.

Owned by and run on behalf of members, Scottish Hostels is a not-for-profit company which exists to support its members, represent their interests to government and industry bodies, and to promote independent hostelling in Scotland.

Becoming a member delivers several benefits including online and in-print marketing opportunities. There is also the chance to join regular ‘coffee and chat’ virtual meetings, where you can meet fellow members and hear from expert guest speakers.

Learn more about the membership benefits and resources of Scottish Hostels

Further partner support

Find out about other key partners such as industry groups, enterprise agencies and local councils who can help you grow your business and provide advice and support.

See all tourism partners

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