Increased checks at Edinburgh Castle in wake of recent terror attacks

by XPRESS, 03 July 2017

Visitors to Edinburgh Castle are facing random bag searches and have been banned from bringing in suitcases and large rucksacks.

Security has been stepped up at the country’s most famous attraction in the wake of the string of UK terrorist attacks.

Tourists have been warned there may be longer waiting times for entry and have been asked to remain vigilant.

Historic Environment Scotland – who operate the venue which draws in 1.8million visitors every year – say the move is part of their ongoing security review.

It comes in the wake of four terrorist attacks. On March 22, five people died when Khalid Masood, 52, drove a car into people on Westminster Bridge.

Suicide bomber Salman Abedi killed 22 people at an Ariana Grande concert on May 22.

Seven people were killed when three terrorists launched an attack on London Bridge and at Borough Market on June 3. And nine people were injured and one killed after a van ploughed into people in Finsbury Park, London, on June 19.

HES said: “It is important to note the undertaking of random bag searches at Edinburgh Castle does not relate to any specific threat, but is rather part of our ongoing approach to the management and provision of a safe and secure site for staff and visitors.”