Planning your next UK adventure? The latest visitor figures have just been released, revealing the attractions that should be at the top of your travel bucket list for 2025.

The Nation’s Favourites

For the second consecutive year, the British Museum has claimed the coveted title of the UK’s most visited attraction, welcoming a staggering 6.4 million visitors in 2024. With its breathtaking collection spanning ancient civilizations from Egypt to Greece, Japan to the Americas, it’s little wonder this cultural treasure trove continues to captivate travellers from across the globe.

Hot on its heels, the Natural History Museum secured second place with 6.3 million visitors. From the awe-inspiring Diplodocus skeleton in the central hall to the immersive earthquake simulator, this South Kensington institution offers a perfect day out for curious minds of all ages.

For those seeking fresh air and natural beauty, Windsor Great Park emerged as Britain’s top outdoor attraction, drawing 5.6 million visitors to its 4,800 acres of royal parkland. Home to ancient woodland, award-winning gardens, and spectacular views of Windsor Castle, this scenic expanse provides a perfect respite from urban exploration.

Hidden Gems on the Rise

While London’s cultural powerhouses dominate the top positions, several regional attractions are experiencing notable surges in popularity. The Museum of Liverpool saw visitor numbers climb by 19% last year, while Oxford’s atmospheric Pitt Rivers Museum enjoyed a remarkable 27% increase.

The National Portrait Gallery, which reopened in summer 2023 following an extensive three-year transformation, has been rewarded for its £35.5 million investment with a 36% increase in visitors. Its refreshed galleries and improved visitor facilities make it well worth a visit when exploring central London.

For families, the Young V&A (formerly the V&A Museum of Childhood) should be on your radar after being named Museum of the Year in 2024. This dedicated children’s museum in East London saw visitor numbers increase by 47% last year, cementing its reputation as one of the capital’s most engaging family-friendly destinations.

Insider Tips for Travellers

According to tourism experts, timing is everything when visiting these popular attractions:

• To avoid the crowds at the British Museum, aim for weekday afternoons or Thursday evenings when the museum stays open until 8:30pm
• Summer visitors to London should consider booking Buckingham Palace’s limited opening period (typically late July to September) well in advance, as it attracted record numbers in 2024
• Edinburgh Castle is busiest during the August festival period, so consider a June or September visit for a more relaxed experience
• Many top museums, including the Natural History Museum and National Gallery, offer free admission but consider supporting them with a voluntary donation

James Thornton, travel industry analyst, advises: “With international tourism to Britain continuing to recover, expect these attractions to be even busier in 2025. Early morning visits, advance booking where available, and exploring some of the less-known attractions on the list can make for a more enjoyable experience.”

The Complete Top 20 UK Attractions

1. British Museum (6,479,952) – Home to the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, and Egyptian mummies
2. Natural History Museum (6,301,972) – Dinosaurs, mammals, and the wonders of the natural world
3. Windsor Great Park (5,670,430) – Royal parkland featuring ancient forests and formal gardens
4. Tate Modern (4,603,205) – Contemporary art in a converted power station with stunning Thames views
5. Southbank Centre (3,734,075) – Cultural complex hosting music, literature and arts events
6. V&A South Kensington (3,525,700) – World’s largest museum of applied arts, decorative arts, and design
7. National Gallery (3,203,451) – Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries
8. Somerset House (3,074,736) – Art centre hosting exhibitions, events and winter ice skating
9. Tower of London (2,902,385) – Historic castle featuring the Crown Jewels and famous ravens
10. Science Museum (2,827,242) – Interactive exhibits exploring scientific achievements
11. National Museum of Scotland (2,314,974) – Edinburgh’s treasure house of nation’s history, culture and people
12. Kew Gardens (2,273,976) – World-famous botanical gardens and Victorian glasshouses
13. Royal Museums Greenwich (2,255,753) – Maritime history, astronomy and royal heritage
14. National Galleries Scotland: National (1,999,196) – Scotland’s national collection of fine art
15. Edinburgh Castle (1,981,152) – Historic fortress dominating Scotland’s capital city
16. Royal Albert Hall (1,753,371) – Iconic concert hall hosting diverse performances
17. Westminster Abbey (1,717,296) – Historic coronation church with royal tombs and Poets’ Corner
18. National Portrait Gallery (1,578,065) – Portraits of historically important British people
19. The Barbican Centre (1,541,194) – Performing arts centre in distinctive brutalist architecture
20. St Paul’s Cathedral (1,493,184) – Christopher Wren’s masterpiece with famous dome and whispering gallery

Whether you’re planning a city break to London or Edinburgh, or seeking inspiration for exploring more of Britain’s cultural treasures, these visitor figures provide a valuable roadmap for creating unforgettable travel experiences across the United Kingdom in 2025.