Scottish Household Survey 2025 findings: Cultural Engagement

Conclusion

Cultural engagement in Scotland remained high in 2025. Nine in ten respondents were culturally engaged through attendance at a cultural event or place, participation in a cultural activity, or both. Cultural engagement increased compared with 2023, reflecting continued growth in both attendance and participation. Attendance at cultural events and places continued to move closer to pre-pandemic levels, while participation increased across a range of creative, artistic and digital activities.

The findings also demonstrate the important role that culture and heritage continue to play in people’s lives. Strong public support for Scotland’s heritage remained evident. Many respondents reported that culture and the arts make a positive difference to their lives and communities, and aspirations for both attendance and participation increased. Perceived benefits relating to enjoyment, mental wellbeing, social connection and exposure to different ideas also increased between 2023 and 2025.

At the same time, cultural engagement was not experienced equally across Scotland. Significant differences in attendance and participation remained between population groups and places. Some of the largest differences were associated with qualification level, deprivation and household income. Barriers to engagement also persisted, with lack of time remaining the most commonly reported factor limiting both attendance at cultural events and places and participation in cultural activities.