Scots are playing "a more integral role than ever" in making visitors to the country feel welcome, according to a tourism survey.

The Scotland Visitor Survey has revealed that 82% of visitors said local people added to their holiday experience.

The top five words used to describe Scots by visitors were friendly (50%), helpful (25%), welcoming (12%), nice (6%) and warm (5%).

Visitors also said the people of Scotland were an important source of information for things to see and do during their stay with 49% talking to local people for advice, the survey for tourist body VisitScotland found.

While landscape and scenery remains the number one reason why people visit Scotland and history and culture the second, Scotland’s reputation for friendly people was cited by 15% as a major draw.

Five per cent of visitors even said they travelled to Scotland to enjoy the weather, the survey revealed.

Tourism minister Fergus Ewing said: "Scotland's people are its greatest asset, especially in an industry like tourism where our warm welcome and friendly approach have helped to define and enrich the experiences of thousands of visitors across the length and breadth of the country.

"The latest survey highlights the huge draw of Scotland's jaw-dropping scenery, our vibrant culture and rich history, while also confirming the important role that everybody, from those in the industry to passers-by in the street, plays in ensuring all our visitors leave with fond memories, having enjoyed their stay to the utmost."

The report found that nine out of ten visitors would recommend Scotland as a holiday destination and six out of ten said the country is worth visiting more than once.

Malcolm Roughead, chief executive of VisitScotland said: "The world renowned Scottish welcome is as warm as it has ever been and it’s no surprise to see the spirit of Scotland’s people continue to play a leading role in the visitor experience.

“Although our stunning scenery and unique history remain the biggest draws for visitors, from locals giving directions to tourists in the street to those working in the industry day to day, the people of Scotland play their own vital role in the success story of Scottish tourism."

VisitScotland launched its first ever global campaign and social movement, dubbed the Spirit of Scotland, earlier this year. The campaign is built on research which shows that people think Scotland has a "unique spirit".