People on Canal Boat Holidays in Scotland may wish to take a visit to the historic Edinburgh Castle, which has retained its position as the country's number one paid-for visitor attraction, according to research.

The annual survey by the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions found that nearly 1,200,000 visitors came through the castle's doors in 2009, an increase of six per cent over the previous year.

Stephen Duncan, head of visitor services and business development at Historic Scotland, said that Scotland's tourism industry has held up well throughout the downturn.

'It's important to us that we offer visitors value for money and the highest quality service,' he commented.

'In the past year our visitor service has been highly praised as we have continued to run price promotions, free weekends and various ticketing options across our sites.

'Other activities for those enjoying Canal Boat Holidays in Scotland include a special exhibition at Dumbarton Castle this month, commemorating the castle's siege in 1640.