Last chance to vote for Edinburgh Castle

15 September 2011

There are just two weeks left to vote for Edinburgh Castle to become the UK’s top Heritage Attraction.  The Castle has been named by the British Travel Awards as one of the shortlisted contenders for its 2011 awards.  

Members of the public can register their support by visiting the official Edinburgh Castle website www.edinburghcastle.gov.uk and voting until 30th September.

Nick Finnigan, Executive Manager, Edinburgh Castle said: “This has been a great year for Edinburgh Castle.  We were thrilled when we broke a new record in July for the highest number of paid visitors coming to Edinburgh Castle and absolutely delighted when the new record was broken in August with our best ever figures.

“For Edinburgh Castle to win the accolade of UK’s top Heritage Attraction would be the icing on the cake!”

The castle boasts many attractions including the Scottish Crown Jewels, which are amongst the oldest regalia in Europe and the Stone of Destiny.  It is also a fantastic venue for rock concerts such as the recent sell-out gig by Arcade Fire.  The castle also provides a magnificent backdrop for the spectacular fireworks which mark the end of the International Festival and also herald the New Year.

The One O’Clock Gun, fired regularly since 1861 is a global icon, and many couples will attest to the fact that St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh, is one of the most romantic places to get married.

Notes for editors

• Historic Scotland is an executive agency of the Scottish Government charged with safeguarding the nation’s historic environment. The agency is fully accountable to Scottish Ministers and through them to the Scottish Parliament.

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