Historic Scotland's top 10 heritage attractions have posted a 9 per cent increase in visitor numbers for the 2009-10 season, compared with the same period last year.
The agency, which manages nearly 350 sites on behalf of the Scottish Government, recently welcomed its three millionth visitor for the current season at one of its ticketed attractions.
Overall visitor numbers for all of the sites have increased by 7 per cent, while Edinburgh Castle has seen an increase of 8 per cent. Urquhart Castle and Stirling Castle have both reported more visitors.
Scottish culture minister Fiona Hyslop said: "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.
"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."
Image: Edinburgh Castle, one of Historic Scotland's Top 10 attractions - Britain On View
