Linlithgow Palace is one of Scotland’s top visitor attractions

Mar 25 2010 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

THE birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots is one of Scotland’s most visited attractions.

Linlithgow Palace is the fourth most visited of Historic Scotland’s buildings.

Historic Scotland manages 345 properties across the country on behalf of Scottish Ministers.

And during the summer season, Historic Scotland’s Top 10 sites enjoyed a nine per cent increase on this time last year, with visitor numbers growing by seven per cent overall.

Linlithgow Palace took fourth place behind Urquhart Castle which was third, Stirling Castle which took second position and the most popular, Edinburgh Castle.

Fiona Hyslop, Culture Minister with the Scottish Government, said: “This has been a wonderful year for our sites, with growth in visitor numbers across our estates.

“The rich variety of history presented through our castles, abbeys, pre-historic settlements and other places is a key reason why Scotland is such an attractive holiday destination.

“Overseas visitors can explore Scotland’s wonderful culture and heritage and Scots can discover where we have come from.

“The strength of the Euro and increased flight routes from European destinations have also helped generate overseas visitors, however it is really encouraging to see an increase in visitor numbers during such a tough economic climate.

“It is very important that we continue to offer visitors value for money and the highest quality service.”