Castle enjoys more visitors

EDINBURGH Castle has had its busiest August for four years, new figures have shown.

There were more than 190,000 visitors through the Castle's doors, a 6.1 per cent rise on the same period last year.

Culture Minister Fiona Hyslop said: "Edinburgh Castle is often regarded as a barometer for Scotland's tourism industry, so it is extremely encouraging to see these figures.

"Scotland continues to be a must-see destination, whilst many other markets have experienced a decline."

Barbara Smith, executive manager for Historic Scotland at Edinburgh Castle, said: "We have had a fantastic August."

The Castle also experienced one of its busiest days for seven years.

A total of 7911 visitors were recorded on the first Tuesday of this year's Festival.