London is one of the biggest money makers when it comes to tourism, with over 30 million people visiting the capital city each year. It is undoubtedly one of the main reasons people choose to visit the UK from abroad. Many movies and TV series prominently showcase the city’s charm and culture. Enticing people to visit. But what some tourists may not realise is that there are plenty of incredible places to visit across the UK. Many of these destinations are located outside of London.
So today, we will be taking a look at the best landmarks for tourists to visit outside of the capital city.
Edinburgh Castle
Arguably one of the most incredible castles in the country, the 11th century structure sits at the heart of the Scottish capital. It is a huge part of the Edinburgh skyline as a result of being located on top of an extinct volcano. The castle has plenty of history and is open to the local public and masses of travellers to be explored, sharing the stories of numerous wars and royal input.
Stonehenge
One of the biggest mysteries when it comes to landmarks lies in the South East of Wiltshire, known as Stonehenge. The site, which has featured in many popular movies and TV series, is a series of large stones, placed in a circular format with no real reason behind it. Historians still debate why people built it, how they built it, and whether they ever completed it. This enduring mystery continues to draw the curiosity of tourists.
The Giant’s Causeway
The first natural landform to feature on the list, Giant’s Causeway, is located in the northern region of Northern Ireland. It is an impressive result of ancient volcanic activity. The site features 40,000 interlocking columns that formed over 60 million years ago, and is a unique site with an urban myth surrounding it, making it an interesting visit for tourists.
The Roman Baths
An incredibly unique landmark in the UK is located in the city of Bath. It was formed around the only known natural hot spring in the country. A Roman temple surrounds the water that was once used as a religious and social site, providing people with the opportunity to explore the facility that was once occupied by a Roman community in the South East of England.
Hadrian’s Wall
Hadrian’s Wall is another significant part of the UK’s history. It remains incredibly well preserved and continues to attract many tourists. The structure was built by the Romans in 122 AD to mark the territory of the Roman Empire. The structure stretches over 73 miles from the River Tyne and features plenty of turrets and forts throughout the wall. It’s a great historic site that holds over 1,900 years of history.
Cardiff Castle
Located in the Welsh capital, Cardiff Castle holds over 2,000 years of history, built with Roman foundations by Norman invaders. The castle has a history of being involved in conflict, with the most recent being World War II, used as an air raid shelter, which is displayed in the public grounds that tourists can visit and learn more about.
Loch Ness
The Loch Ness may be more known for the mystery of the Loch Ness Monster. However, the site itself is a beautiful mountainous scene. A large body of water is surrounded by a picturesque view as well as various viewing points. It also features interesting structures, including a castle and a small village. The story of the Loch Ness Monster makes the landmark even more interesting and is a great place for tourists to visit.
St Michael’s Mount
An isolated island hosts a church and castle at St Michael’s Mount, creating one of the most unique and picturesque scenes in the UK. Visitors can walk to it on foot only when the tide goes out. The Cornish landmark is particularly special because of its unique causeway access. Its almost mythical appearance gives it a striking medieval aesthetic.
Fountains Abbey
Located in North Yorkshire, Fountains Abbey was founded in 1132. It operated as a monastery until it was closed by King Henry VIII. The ruins of the Abbey still stand after it was taken apart by the monarch in the 1500s, and is located with a water garden which was designed around 100 years after the dissolution of the Abbey.
Blackpool Tower
People often joke that Blackpool Tower is the UK’s answer to France’s Eiffel Tower, making it an iconic landmark. It is located in the seaside town of Blackpool. The 158-metre-tall tower finished construction in 1894, built with the purpose of drawing more tourism. The town thrived in the 1900s as a popular holiday destination and remains a favourite for many tourists today. Visitors can enjoy access to the top of the tower along with plenty of other nearby attractions. The surrounding area has become known for its bright lights, arcades, and entertainment venues – some even featuring modern slot games as part of the town’s long-standing leisure culture – making it a perfect stop for a coastal break.