Top 20 Most Visited Cities by Tourists in the UK

The United Kingdom is a popular tourist destination that attracts millions of visitors from all over the world. From historic landmarks to beautiful countryside, there is something for everyone in the UK.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the 20 most visited cities by tourists in the UK with exact numbers and statistical data.

1. London

Tourists: 20 million
London is the capital city of the UK and the most popular tourist destination, attracting over 20 million visitors every year.

The city is home to some of the world’s most famous landmarks, such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum.

London is also known for its vibrant culture, bustling nightlife, and diverse food scene.

With countless restaurants, pubs, and clubs, visitors can enjoy a range of cuisines and entertainment options.

2. Edinburgh

Tourists: 2.7 million

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and the second most visited city in the UK.

It is famous for its beautiful architecture, historical landmarks, and festivals.

3. Manchester

Tourists: 1.3 million

Manchester is a vibrant city in the north of England that attracts visitors with its culture, music, and nightlife.

Manchester United and Manchester City, two of the largest football clubs in the UK, are both based in the city.

4. Birmingham

Tourists: 1.1 million

Birmingham is the second-largest city in the UK and a popular destination for tourists.

The city is known for its shopping, culture, and nightlife, as well as its historical landmarks.

Birmingham is home to several famous landmarks, including the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, and the Cadbury World chocolate factory, which offers tours and chocolate-making demonstrations. Additionally, the city is famous for its music scene, having produced famous bands and musicians such as Black Sabbath, Duran Duran, and UB40.

5. Liverpool

Tourists: 900,000

Liverpool is a city in the north of England that is famous for its musical heritage and football teams.

In the city, you can find the Beatles Museum, the iconic Cavern Club, and Anfield Stadium.

6. Bristol

Tourists: 700,000

Bristol is a city in the southwest of England that is known for its street art, music scene, and maritime history.

One of the UK’s most renowned landmarks, Clifton Suspension Bridge, can also be found in the city.

7. Brighton

Tourists: 500,000
Brighton is a seaside city in the south of England that is popular with tourists for its beaches, nightlife, and festivals.

The city is also home to the Royal Pavilion, a famous landmark that was built for King George IV.

In addition to its beaches and landmarks, Brighton is known for its thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and theaters showcasing local and international talent.

Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking in the nearby South Downs National Park, or taking a leisurely stroll along the city’s famous pier. Furthermore, Brighton is home to many fantastic restaurants and cafes, serving up delicious food and drink from around the world.

8. Bath

Tourists: 500,000

Bath is a historic city in the southwest of England that is famous for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture.

The Royal Crescent, a well-known landmark constructed during the 18th century, is also situated in the city.

9. Oxford

Tourists: 400,000

Oxford is a city in the south of England that is famous for its university and historical landmarks.

The city is home to the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford Castle, and the Bodleian Library.

10. Cambridge

Tourists: 300,000

Cambridge is a city in the east of England that is famous for its university and historical landmarks.

King’s College Chapel, Cambridge University Botanic Garden, and the Fitzwilliam Museum are among the attractions located in the city.

In addition to its famous university and landmarks, Cambridge is known for its scenic waterways, with the River Cam running through the city center. Visitors can take a traditional punt tour along the river, passing by some of the city’s most beautiful architecture and green spaces.

11. Glasgow

Tourists: 300,000

Glasgow is the largest city in Scotland and a popular destination for tourists.

The city is known for its art, culture, and music scene, as well as its historical landmarks.

12. York

Tourists: 260,000

York is a historic city in the north of England that is famous for its medieval walls, cobbled streets, and the York Minster, a famous cathedral that was built in the 7th century.

13. Newcastle

Tourists: 250,000
Newcastle is a city in the northeast of England that is known for its nightlife, culture, and architecture.

One of the city’s renowned landmarks, the Angel of the North, was erected in 1998.

Newcastle is also home to several other historic and iconic landmarks, such as the Newcastle Castle Keep, St. Nicholas Cathedral, and the Tyne Bridge, which offers stunning views of the city and the River Tyne.

The city is famous for its lively arts scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and theaters showcasing the works of local and international artists, writers, and performers.

14. Southampton

Tourists: 230,000

Southampton is a city on the south coast of England that is famous for its maritime history, being the departure point for the Titanic.

The city is also home to the SeaCity Museum and Southampton Old Town.

15. Belfast

Tourists: 200,000

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland and a popular destination for tourists.

The city is recognized for its rich history, diverse culture, vibrant music scene, and prominent landmarks like the Titanic Belfast museum.

16. Cardiff

Tourists: 200,000

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales and a popular destination for tourists.

The city is renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, and sports, with notable venues such as the Principality Stadium and the Millennium Centre.

Cardiff is also home to several famous landmarks, including Cardiff Castle, the National Museum Cardiff, and the stunning Cardiff Bay, which features a range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Visitors can also explore the city’s vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues catering to a range of tastes and preferences.

17. Newcastle-under-Lyme

Tourists: 150,000

Newcastle-under-Lyme is a market town in Staffordshire, in the Midlands of England.

The town is known for its history, architecture, and local events such as the Newcastle-under-Lyme Jazz and Blues Festival.

18. Coventry

Tourists: 140,000

Coventry is a city in the West Midlands of England that is known for its history, culture, and music scene.

One of the city’s famous landmarks is the Coventry Cathedral, which was reconstructed after World War II.

19. Plymouth

Tourists: 120,000
Plymouth is a city on the south coast of England that is known for its maritime history, being the departure point for the Mayflower.

Additionally, the city houses the National Marine Aquarium and the Plymouth Hoe.

In addition to its rich maritime history and famous landmarks, Plymouth is also known for its stunning natural scenery, with numerous beaches, parks, and green spaces located throughout the city.

Visitors can take a walk along the South West Coast Path, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline, or explore the nearby Dartmoor National Park, with its rolling hills and rugged landscapes.

20. Dundee

Tourists: 100,000

Dundee is a city in Scotland that is known for its culture, history, and local events such as the Dundee Science Festival.

The V&A Dundee, a museum focused on design and innovation, is also located in the city.

Top UK Cities to Visit for a Unique Experience

The United Kingdom has a wide range of cities that attract tourists from all over the world.

The top 20 most visited cities by tourists in the UK include London, Edinburgh, Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, Bristol, Brighton, Bath, Oxford, Cambridge, Glasgow, York, Newcastle, Southampton, Belfast, Cardiff, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Coventry, Plymouth, and Dundee.

These cities offer visitors a unique blend of history, culture, architecture, and local events that make them a must-see destination when visiting the UK.