Historic Scotland has reported a record number of people visited Scotland’s heritage sites this summer. Between June and August, more than 1.8million people visited heritage attractions throughout the country; an increase of more than 34,000 on the same period last year.
Scotland’s number one paid for visitor attraction was Edinburgh Castle, while another top performer was Doune Castle, which rose to international fame following its starring role as the fictional Castle Leoch in the first season of the Outlander TV series. Meanwhile, Skara Brae, one of Europe’s best-preserved prehistoric settlements, which dates back around 5,000 years, benefited from two consecutive record breaking months.
The top 10 paid for attractions were:
1 – Edinburgh Castle
2 – Stirling Castle
3 – Urquhart Castle
4 – Skara Brae
5 – St Andrews Castle
6 – Linlithgow Palace
7 – Iona Abbey
8 – Fort George
9 – Doune Castle
10 – Melrose Abbey
Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Europe and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop, said: “This record-breaking year for visits to Historic Scotland properties demonstrates the value, significance and growing appeal of Scotland’s heritage to visitors. From Orkney to the Borders, Scotland’s history and heritage filled landscapes are a truly unique resource, not just in terms of the wider benefits that they offer for all in terms of cultural enrichment – providing an insight into different aspects of our nation’s past, but also for their role and potential in supporting and driving economic growth. “
For ideas for great days out visit: www.historic-scotland.gov.uk