Edinburgh Old Town attraction Camera Obscura achieves five-star success from ASVA Quality Scheme
One of Edinburgh’s most popular visitor attractions has been named among the first recipients in the city of a new top-grade status.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is delighted to announce it has been awarded a 5-star rating from the ASVA Quality Scheme, becoming one of the first visitor attractions in Edinburgh to achieve this top-grade status under the new independent assessment.
The ASVA (Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions) Quality Scheme is a new industry-led grading system developed to support and benchmark excellence across Scotland’s visitor attractions. Camera Obscura was among the first sites to be assessed and awarded the maximum five stars for the “outstanding quality of its visitor experience”.
The report praised the attraction for its “immersive, engaging” environment, with over 100 interactive exhibits catering to all ages, and for the “exceptional standard” of customer service.
A guide at the Old Town attraction was singled out for going above and beyond to support a solo visitor by offering to accompany them through the more interactive exhibits, an act described as “real kindness that left a lasting impression”.
Michael Golding, CEO of ASVA, said “Camera Obscura and World of Illusions exemplifies the spirit of Scottish tourism – welcoming, innovative, and visitor-focused.
“Being one of the first in Edinburgh to receive a 5-star grading under our new Quality Scheme sets a high bar, and it’s a well-deserved recognition of their team’s dedication to delivering exceptional experiences.”
The report also highlighted a “welcoming and intuitive online booking system”, a “strong accessibility provision”, the “engaging exhibits” across five fun-filled floors, the attraction’s panoramic rooftop views, and a “commitment to improvement through staff engagement and thoughtful exhibit design”.
Andrew Johnson, general manager of Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, said “We’re thrilled to be one of the first in Edinburgh to receive a 5-star ASVA Quality Grading. This award is a brilliant reflection of the energy and pride our team puts into every visitor’s experience.
“From the first welcome to the last illusion, we aim to surprise, entertain, and delight and it’s wonderful to see that recognised by ASVA.”
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is located at the top of the Royal Mile beside Edinburgh Castle and is one of the capital’s most iconic and long-standing attractions. Open daily, it offers “a whirlwind of illusions, visual surprises and rooftop views”, and was a 2025 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice winner, as well as a national and regional Thistle Award winner.
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