Top 23 Tourist Places to Visit in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom (UK) is an island country located on the northwestern coasts of Europe. This country consists of England, Scotland, and Wales. From innovation to technology, the UK  has made tremendous contributions to the global economy from innovation and technology.

The UK is a spectacular and marvellous place for explorations and tourist attractions. This article provides comprehensive details about the best tourist places to visit in the UK.

Currency in the UK – The official currency in the United Kingdom is Pound Sterling. 1 Pound Sterling is equal to 100.41 Indian Rupees as of 13 March 2023*.

*Currency rates will vary depending on the market exchange rate.

Some of the best tourist places to visit in the UK have been mentioned below, which include cities, museums, palaces and art galleries. This list offers a concrete idea of all destinations if you travel to the UK.

Here are the top tourist places one must visit while travelling to the UK.

1. Stonehenge, England

Stonehenge, a Neolithic landmark, is a must-see for history enthusiasts. It is a World Heritage site in association with Avebury and an impeccable prehistoric monument of the Bronze Age. This architectural brilliance showcasing the unique construction of the stones makes it one of the top places to visit in the UK. Moreover, this location is surrounded by various neolithic burial sites and monuments.

• Location: Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire
• Things to do: Visit Salisbury's Cathedral to see the biggest stone circle in the world in Avebury. Old Sarum is also a place where you can experience the past.
• Timing: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry Fees: £22.00 per adult; £13.20 per child of age between 5 to 17 years; free for members.
• How to reach: Closest tube station is Paddington and Lancaster Gate.

2. Big Ben, London

Big Ben is a clock tower located next to Westminster Abbey in the heart of London. This tower's historical value is a fundamental reason it is a must-see attraction during a visit to London. Initially, Edmund Beckett Denison designed this clock in collaboration with clockmaker Edward Dent. The gigantic and marvellous structure makes it one of the most-visited places in London.

• Location: Palace of Westminster
• Things to do: You can see the nearby Houses of Parliament or visit Elizabeth Tower.
• Timing: Open all day. The best time to visit is at noon when the bell chimes. 
• Entry Fees: Entry to Big Ben is free, and entry to the interior is restricted.
• How to reach: Big Ben is situated in the centre of London. The nearby train station is Westminster. To see Big Ben from all viewpoints, walk from Westminster Bridge to Parliament Square.

3. London Eye, London

Millennium Wheel or London Eye is a revolving observation wheel and is considered a popular tourist attraction in the country. Built on the South Bank of River Thames, this structure is the world's tallest Ferris wheel, with a height of 443 feet and a diameter of 394 feet. The original owners of the London Eye were British Airways, Tussauds Group, and Marks Barfield.

• Location: Lambeth, South London
•  Things to do: One can see popular spots from the London Eye like the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, Tate Museum, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and other places.
• Timing: 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM
•  Entry fees: Standard ticket costs up to £40 per adult. Charges will vary if any additional sightseeing is added.
• How to reach: Closest tube stations are Embankment and Charing Cross, with a walking distance of 10 to 15 minutes.

4. Tower Bridge, London

Tower Bridge, one of the top tourist attractions in the UK, is a movable bridge, built on River Thames in between the Greater London boroughs and Tower Hamlets and Southwark. The astounding monumental structure of the bridge with the mechanism of dissociation the same attracts tourists from all over the world.

• Location: London Borough of Southwark, London Borough of Hamlets
• Things to do: Explore nearby places like Bridge Theatre, Tower of London, City Hall, etc.
• Timing: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
• Entry fees: £11.40 charges per adult; £5.70 per child.
• How to reach: Closest station is Fenchurch

Here is a comprehensive list of spectacular galleries and museums to visit in the UK:

5. The British Museum, London

Being one of the top places to visit in UK, the British Museum highlights outstanding archaeological and ethnographic evidence. This museum was formed under the Act of Parliament in 1753 and comprises three collections: Robert Harley, 1st Earl of Oxford, Sir Hans Sloane, and Sir Robert Cotton. Upon visiting this museum, one can locate some rare manuscripts and ancient publications.

• Location: Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury
• Things to do: Explore the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon Sculptures, Crouching Venus, Bust of Ramesses the Great, Ife Head, and many more.
• Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Exit time on Fridays is 8:30 PM 
• Entry fees: There is no fee required to enter this British Museum
• How to reach: There are four tube stations closest to the British Museum like Holborn, Russell Square, Goodge Street, and Tottenham Court Road. It takes 5 to 7 minutes to walk to reach the museum.

6. National Gallery, London

National Gallery was founded in 1824 and is home to countless renowned European paintings of the greatest artists. This art museum is located in Westminster and is built on the basis of a Neoclassical structure. Over 2,500 collections of paintings and art pieces, including Italian Renaissance paintings, are found in museums. Some notable artists whose paintings can be found in galleries are Raphael, Johannes Vermeer, and Leonardo da Vinci.

• Location: Trafalgar Square, Westminster, Central London
• Things to do: Explore famous artworks like Bacchus and Ariadne, Bathers, Doge Leonardo Loredan, Madame Moitessier, Equestrian Portrait of Charles I, Samson and Delilah, etc.
• Timing: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Exit time of Friday is 9:00 PM
• Entry fees: The entrance to this collection is free.
• How to reach: Closest tube station is Westminster

7. Victoria & Albert Museum, London

Victoria & Albert Museum houses the greatest collection of decorative arts in the globe. The museum was founded in the year 1852 and decorative arts were first put on display at the Crystal Palace. Upon visiting this place one will find stellar and wide tableaux of European ceramics and sculptures. In addition to this, there is a collection of French furniture and impeccable enamelwork and metalwork.

• Location: Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
• Things to do: Some popular art pieces to explore in the Victoria & Albert Museum are Constable's paintings, the Three Graces by Antonio Canova, the Cast Courts, Raphael's cartoons, Tippoo’s Tiger, and many other notable pieces.
• Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:45 PM; Exit time on Friday is 10:00 PM
• Entry fees: Standard admission to the museum is free.
• How to reach: South Kensington and Gloucester Road are the closest underground stations. You can also take a bike ride to reach this museum from Exhibition road.

8. National History Museum, London

The National History Museum serves as a marvellous piece of art gallery and an impeccable research centre. The presence of unique and historic collections of art pieces makes the National History Museum one of the major tourist attractions in the country. Upon visiting the place, one will find a spread of over 80 million objects from different eras.

• Location: Kensington and Chelsea
• Things to do: Explore the specimens like The Birds of America, Great auk, Hans Sloane’s nautilus shell, Barbary lion skull, Charles Darwin’s pigeons, etc.
• Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:50 PM
• Entry fees: Entry to the National History Museum is free.
• How to reach: Closest tube station is South Kensington.

Here is a list of top natural parks and landscapes that is ideal for exploration while visiting the UK:

9. Hyde Park, London

Hyde Park is considered one of London's four royal parks and a top place to visit in UK. In the late 1600s, this area around Kensington Palace was a battleground. It is now one of the country's largest parks and is vital to the city's cultural scene. It has become a well-recognised site for hosting performances by numerous artists.

• Location: Westminster, Greater London
• Things to do: Take a stroll around Marble Arch and spend some time in the Serpentine Galleries.
• Timing: 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM 
• Entry Fees: Entry to Hyde Park is free.
• How to reach: Closest tube station is Lancaster Gate and Marble Arch Station.

10. St. James’s Park, London

St. James's Park, one of the oldest Royal Parks in London, has gained popularity for its breathtaking and astounding scenic beauty. The significant Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, and Whitehall surround the park. Moreover, upon visiting the park, one will be able to explore the beauty that the park has to offer.

• Location: Westminster, Central London
• Things to do: Explore important parts of the park like the Horse Guards Parade, Buckingham Palace Flower Beds, the Mall, and the magnificent Pelicans.
• Timing: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM 
• Entry fees: Entry to the park is absolutely free.
• How to reach: Closest station is St. James’s Park.

11. Lake District, England

The beautiful Lake District in Cumbria is renowned as a top place to visit in the UK due to its breath-taking environment. Lake District National Park is a must-see destination for those who want to explore it on foot. Scafell Pike, inside this park, is England's tallest mountain at 978 metres. In addition, there are several attractive towns and villages, including Grasmere.

• Location: Cumbria
• Things to do: The Lake District is a great place to go hiking/walking. Get a kayak and explore the beauty of the lakes.
• Timing: Open 24*7
• Entry Fees: Entry to the Lake District is free.
• How to reach: London, Liverpool, and Manchester have airports close to the Lake District. You can take a bus from these airports to the national park.

12. Snowdonia National Park, Wales

Snowdonia National Park, located in the county of Gwynedd, is surrounded by 14 majestic mountain peaks and attracts millions of tourists a year. Moreover, this hiking destination in the UK is famous for the tale of legends, including King Arthur's. The presence of astounding scenic beauty of the summit makes it one of the top places to visit in the UK

• Location: Gwynedd county and Conwy County Borough
• Things to do: Mountain biking, horse riding, exploring the Bala Lake, etc.
• Timing: Open 24*7
• Entry fees: The entry to the national park is free
• How to reach: The closest three main rail stations are Barmouth, Porthmadog, and Betws-y-Coed.

13. Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales

Brecon Beacons National Park is considered a hiker's paradise and is surrounded by two different sets of Black Mountains. The park consists of various caves and waterfalls, among which the Henrhyd Falls is significant. When one visits here, one must tour the coal mine at Big Pit National Coal Museum.

• Location: West of Herefordshire, South and Mid Wales
• Things to do: Mountain biking, canoeing, sailing, fishing, horse riding, climbing, and camping.
• Timing: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
•  Entry fees: Entry to the national park is free. Parking cost: € 1:00 for 1-2 hours & € 2:00 for 2-4 hours & € 3:00 for over 4 hours.
• How to reach: The closest regional airports are London Gatwick and London Heathrow.

14. Loch Lomond, Scotland

Loch Lomond in Scotland is one of the top tourist attractions in the country and has been described by Scott as "The Queen of Scottish Lakes''. One can find an abundance of different saltwater fish like salmon, trout, and whitefish. In addition, tourists who visit this lake often indulge in lakeside rambles and trek to Ben Lomond. Not only this, but while you visit this area, Loch Lomond Shores and Loch Lomond Sea Life Aquarium are some of the top attractions to explore.

• Location: Highland Boundary Fault, Lowland of Central Scotland
• Things to do: Take part in water sports, hiking, explore the aquarium and shark tank, etc.
• Timing: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Entry fees: The entry to the place is free. 
• How to reach: The closest railway station is Balloch Station.

15. Cruising Loch Ness & the Caledonian Canal, Scotland

Loch Ness is the largest water body in Scotland and is a popular tourist destination in the UK. This waterside connects the east and west coasts and highlights the spectacular scenic beauty amidst the Caledonian Canal. Moreover, travellers visiting this part of Scotland can explore the historic ruins of Urquhart Castle, located on the shore of Loch Ness.

• Location: Dochgarroch Lock
• Things to do: Cruise excursions on the canals, hiking along with the region, visiting the Loch Ness Exhibition, etc.
• Timing: Open 24*7
• Entry fees: The entry to the canal is free; however, additional charges will be included for cruise trips.
• How to reach: Spean Bridge station, Fort Willian and Inverness station are the closest railway stations to reach the spot.

16. Isle of Skye & the Inner Hebrides, Scotland

Skye is the largest inner isle of Scotland and offers a wide abundance of wildlife, flora, and fauna to adventure seekers. Being home to more than 200 species of birds, Skye is a spectacular specimen of rich habitation of green valleys, caves, and beaches. Moreover, while visiting the isle, one can also visit Scotland's oldest Christian cemetery nearby.

•  Location: West Coast of Scotland
• Things to do: Ferry ride to the river, explore other islands like Islay, Jura, Mull, Raasay, Iona, and Staffa.
• Timing: Open 24*7
• Entry fees: Entry to the Isle of Skye is free.
• How to reach: The closest railway station to reach the spot is Uig station.

The list of best castles and palaces to explore in the UK are mentioned down below:

17. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Edinburgh castle holds strong cultural and ancient specimens as it used to be a residence of Scottish monarchs. Currently, it is being transformed into a museum and serves among Scotland's most popular tourist locations. This fortress stands as a defender of the nation and has a complex structure. St. Margaret's Castle and the Great Hall are renowned parts of this castle.

• Location: Castlehill, Edinburgh
• Things to do: Tour this castle and explore places like Great Hall, Crown Room, St. Margaret's Chapel, Royal Palace, and National War Museum of Scotland.
• Timing: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entry fees: Online entry fee is £18 whereas, walk-up ticket fare is £21 per adult; the online entry fee is £11 whereas, walk-up ticket fare is £12.50.
• How to reach: Closest railway station will be Waverley. One can also take a bus or bicycle ride to reach the spot.

18. Westminster Abbey, London

Westminster Abbey is among the best tourist places to visit in the UK, serving national importance and is a famous site for a coronation. It is located near the Houses of Parliament and was founded by Queen Elizabeth I as the Collegiate Church of St. Peter in Westminster. In addition, in 1987, Westminster Abbey was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site collectively with the Houses of Parliament and St. Margaret's Church.

• Location: Dean’s Yard, Westminster
• Things to do: Explore sites like Coronation Chair, Poet’s Corner, Lady Chapel, Royal Tombs, Pyx Chamber, Cloisters, Quire, etc.
• Timing: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Monday to Friday); 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM (Saturdays); Sunday closed.
• Entry fees: £27 per adult; £24 per senior citizen (above 65 years of age) and students, and free of cost for children.
• How to reach: Public transport is the best way to reach Westminster Abbey. Some bus routes that pass by its entrance are 11, 24, 88, 148, and 211.

19. Buckingham Palace, London

As the home of a British sovereign, Buckingham Palace is situated within Westminster. The palace was first built for John Sheffield, who was a Duke of Buckingham, in 1705. Many marvellous art pieces and royal paintings by notable artists surround the interior of this palace. To let commoners witness the greatness of these arts, Queen's Gallery, a small art gallery, was opened to the public with its inception in 1962 at Buckingham Palace.

• Location: Westminster, Central London
• Things to do: Explore the Throne Room, Ball Room, Grand Staircase, Palace Garden, Changing the Guard, and Treasures of the Palace and view the Queen's Guard Ceremony.
• Timing: 4:00 PM to 4:30 PM on Fridays; 11:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 2:00 PM and 2:30 PM on Saturdays and Sundays.
• Entry fees: £30.00 per adult on booking and £33.00 per adult on the day booking; £19.50 per person (18-24 years of age) on booking and £21.50 per person (18-24 years of age) on the day booking; £16.50 per child (5 to 17 years of age) on booking and £18.00 per child (5 to 17 years of age) on the day booking; free for children under the age of 5.
• How to reach: Victoria, Green Park is the closest underground station. Hyde Park Corner and St. James Park.

20. St. Paul’s Cathedral, London

St. Paul's Cathedral, a London icon, is a cathedral consisting of an Anglican bishop. Located within the periphery of Central London, this cathedral has spectacular Neoclassical, Gothic, and Baroque art pieces to explore. After the great fire of 1666, Christopher Wren rebuilt the cathedral to restore its magnificence.

• Location: Ludgate Hill, Central London
• Things to do: Explore the tombs of the Duke of Wellington, Christopher Wren, and Admiral Nelson. Also, visit the nearby spots like Liquid History Tours, National Firefighters Memorial, Christopher Wren's Temple Bars, and many others.
• Timing: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Monday to Saturday except for Wednesday); 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM on Wednesday.
• Entry fees: £20.50 per adult on online booking and £23 per adult on walk-up fees; £18.40 per senior citizen (more than 65 years of age) and students on online booking and £20.50 per senior citizen (more than 65 years of age) and students on walk-up rates; £9 per children (6 to 17 years of age) on online booking and £10 per children (6 to 7 years of age) on walk-up rates.
• How to reach: Closest tube station is St. Paul’s.

21. Cardiff Castle & National Museum Cardiff, Wales

Being constructed over 1,000 years ago, Cardiff Castle and National Museum Cardiff in Wales is one of the most photographic spots, ideal for spending time with loved ones. There are a plethora of places to explore in and around the castle and museum, like mediaeval murals and a massive fireplace. In addition, one can find stellar specimens of archaeological, zoological, and botanical collections in the place.

• Location: Central Cardiff
• Things to do: Explore an art gallery for an art collection done by Old Masters and Welsh painters, take a tour of the Banqueting Hall, etc.
• Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Closed on Mondays.
•  Entry fees: The entry fees to the National Museum Cardiff are free.
• How to reach: The closest railway station to reach the spot is Cathays Station.

22. Caernarfon Castle, Wales

Caernarfon Castle in Wales is the strongest specimen of fortification constructed by King Edward I in the 13th century. This castle is known as the top preserved mediaeval fortress in Europe, which attracts tourists from all over the world. Located around the water bodies of the River Seiont and Menai Strait, this outstanding structural excellence is one of the best tourist place to visit in the UK.

• Location: Castle Ditch, Caernarfon
• Things to do: Explore the castle and various artefacts, visit the nearby Royal Welsh Fusiliers Regimental Museum, boat in River Seiont, etc.
• Timing: 10;00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Entry fees: £11:10 per adult; £7:80 per child of age between 5 to 17 years; £10.60 per senior citizen, £36.60 per family; free per disabled person
• How to reach: The closest railway station to reach the spot is Bangor.

The above-mentioned list of cities, museums, and art galleries in the United Kingdom are spectacular places that experience massive tourist footfalls every year. Hence, this article offers a comprehensive guide and idea about the best tourist places to visit in the UK for travellers planning to explore the royal country.