Scotland needs to work harder to attract tourists and is over-reliant on Edinburgh’s international reputation, according to a new travel guide. The latest edition of the Lonely Planet Scotland, published on Tuesday, said visitors should be encouraged off the beaten track according to the British Broadcasting Corporation.

The guide said highlights included whale-watching, beaches and small festivals like Shetland’s Up Helly-Aa.

John O’Groats was described as the country’s most embarrassing attraction.

The Queen’s Highland home of Balmoral Castle also came under criticism as a tourist attraction.
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