Historic Scotland's flagship attraction Edinburgh Castle has welcomed its one millionth visitor through the door for the current financial year (1st April 2008 to 31st March 2009).
Edinburgh Castle is Scotland's top paid visitor attraction with 1.2 million visitors per year. Despite the tough financial times the castle continues to attract visitors from around the world.
Historic Scotland, the government agency that has the dual role of
conserving the visitor attraction and running it as a tourism business, say that the venue's success in bucking the economic downturn is partly down to a £2.7 million upgrade that came to fruition last year. The rebranding included a new visitor reception, a dedicated web site, and online ticketing.
The recent introduction of souvenir guide books to the castle in Russian and Chinese reflects the changing make-up of visitors.
The one millionth visitors to the castle were actually a couple, Britta Springstrow and Rene Woffeh, from Germany. The two of them received free entry and a goodie bag.
Britta said they were delighted and surprised to be chosen: "Edinburgh is such a beautiful place and the castle is stunning. It was really exciting to be chosen as the millionth visitor today as we were certainly not expecting it."
Entrance fee
Edinburgh Castle admission charges are currently priced at a discounted off-peak rate at the castle until the 28 February 2009. Off-peak prices are: Adults £9.79, Children £4.89, Concessions £6.85.