An Aberdeenshire landmark has been named one of the most recognisable castles in the country.
VisitScotland research has found that 53% of all UK adults were able to identify the Queen’s holiday home of Balmoral Castle.
It came second only to Edinburgh Castle in the nationwide survey, which was recognised by 80% of respondents.
The research shows that Brits reckon Crathes Castle is one of the most romantic-looking, with Eilean Donan at Kyle of Lochalsh also ranking highly.
At the other end of the scale, two Aberdeenshire castles were named the most likely to be haunted.
Almost a quarter of respondents think that Slains Castle, near Peterhead, has at least one ghostly inhabitant, with Stonehaven’s Dunnottar Castle following closely behind.
Jo Robinson, VisitScotland regional director, said: “I am delighted but not surprised that Balmoral has been voted the second best-known castle in Scotland.
“It is recognised around the world as the Scottish holiday home of the Queen and Royal family, attracting tens of thousands of visitors annually and is situated in a stunning location in Royal Deeside.
“It is also encouraging that Crathes, Slains and Dunnottar castles – all in Aberdeenshire – were mentioned by visitors in this research.
“We are very proud to boast that we are home to Scotland’s Castle Trail – it gives a tremendous boost to the region.
