A SCOTTISH heritage icon has been named the "most overcrowded" tourism destination in Europe.
Edinburgh Castle beat out Buckingham Palace and a range of continental destinations in a report by travel blog The Thinking Traveller, which analysed visitor reviews for the research.
Despite the amount of visitors, or perhaps because of it, some tourists who went to the site offered mixed reviews on TripAdvisor.
The Daily Express reported one user, joe_railwayman, as saying: "An underwhelming visit. We found certain areas to be very overcrowded and the cafe very expensive.
"Maps were unclear but may have been a different experience if had upgraded to include audio guide or tour.”
Another user, Caz881975, said: “Paying over £70 for three Adults and two Children (one Senior) we thought that it was overpriced.
“We explored most areas however, in general, I thought it was a place with lots of good viewing points for Edinburgh.”
Some other visitors found the castle to be more inspiring, however, with one calling it "very moving".
User Emwhitnall wrote: “There is so much to explore within in the castle walls, I'd recommend getting the audioguide to make the most of the experience.
“It was also very moving exploring the war memorial, dedicated to all those who have served for Scotland.
“Make sure to time your visit if you want to watch the Mons Meg cannon firing as it only happens once a day.”
And Jason F said: “What an amazing castle! So much to see and do. We spent half the day here, enjoying the Cafe and many exhibits on display.
“The views from the castle, of Edinburgh, are amazing.”
