Record numbers of visitors to attractions

TWO renowned cultural attractions have reached record levels of visitors for Scotland thanks in part to a weak pound, according to researchers.

Edinburgh Castle and the National Museum of Scotland brought in more than two million people through their doors in 2017 – the first time for any such hot-spot in the country to do so.

Industry experts at Glasgow Caledonian University have put part of the rise in popularity down to the poor currency of the UK, as well as fewer Britons deciding against holidaying abroad.

Professor John Lennon said: “Two Scottish visitor attractions welcoming more than two million visitors for the first time is a sure sign of the enduring appeal and strength of the sector.

“As a destination, Scotland continues to benefit from the lower value of Sterling against the euro and the US dollar, ensuring tourists receive value for money as well as a high-quality experience. Demand has been further buoyed by a resurgent domestic ‘stay-cation’ market as Britain faces economic uncertainty and the reduced purchasing power of Sterling.”

The annual survey of more than 700 of the country’s paid and free attractions revealed tourism across Scotland was up by five per cent last year. It found the museum and castle welcomed 2,165,601 and 2,063,709 respectively during 2017.

A further five cultural destinations brought in more than one million visitors. These were Scottish National Gallery, West Dunbartonshire’s Loch Lomond Shores, Glasgow’s Riverside Museum, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum as well as St Giles’ Cathedral.