Visitor numbers soar in south-west Scotland

Historic properties in Dumfries and Galloway have recorded a 41 per cent rise in visitor numbers.

Caerlaverock Castle, Cardoness Castle and New Abbey Corn Mill are among sites of historic interest that have seen an overall rise in visitor num- bers of 41 per cent between April and July this year.

Historic Environment Scotland (HES), which looks after 37 properties in the region, said it has welcomed nearly 43,000 visitors in the first four months of the financial year.

Activities have been taking place at the sites to celebrate Scotland’s Year of History, Heritage and Archeolology, with jousting at Caelaverock Castle in July attracting 3,686 visitors.

Fiona Hyslop, Culture, Tourism and External Affairs Secretary said: “Dumfries and Galloway’s historic environment acts as a magnet for tourists drawn to these exceptional places. This year we celebrate the richness of Scotland’s history, impressive cultural her- itage and fascinating archaeology, which, as these figures show, are a real attraction in the modern world.

“As custodians of these prized sites, HES has an impressive programme of maintenance, restoration and promotional activity that are vital to ensure these historically important sites are available for generations to come.”