EDINBURGH Castle has been named the best UK heritage attraction at the “Oscars” of the travel industry. The attraction won the gold award at the 2011 British Travel Awards ceremony in London. The castle has had a million visitors this year and is popular with music fans, as well as tourists, hosting recent performances by Bryan Ferry and Arcade Fire.

Edinburgh Castle’s executive manager, Nick Finnigan, was presented with the award. He said: “This is a great honour. Edinburgh Castle is home to the Scottish crown jewels which are amongst the oldest regalia in Europe, and the Stone of Destiny. However, it is also a fantastic venue for events ranging from rock concerts through to spectacular firework displays.”