75 Unique Landmarks in the UK (with photos)

There are many landmarks in the UK that are well worth a visit during a trip to England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Island. But which are the best landmarks in the UK and why should they be added to your UK travel itinerary? Keep scrolling to find out…

Amazing Landmarks in the UK

With breathtaking beaches, plenty of historic sites, and vibrant scenic beauty, it is no wonder that so many people to travel to see the various landmarks in the UK.

The UK, a historic nation on the map, has preserved its culture, traditions, and architecture while embracing modernisation. The UK is a fantastic tourist destination, and for good reason- the landmarks in the UK are sone of the best in the world! So, lets get started and dive deeper into the very best landmarks in the UK…

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Lets start of this post outlining the main landmarks in the UK but taking a look at some of Britain’s very best castles…

First up is Edinburgh Castle in Scotland. The Castle is known by many names, such as “The stronghold of Eidyn,” “Castle of Maidens,” and “Castle Rock,” and each name has a tragic story. It was in the reign of King David I that the Castle was remodelled into Edinburgh Castle and started operating as a Royal Seat. In modern times, it has become one of the historical landmarks in the UK for tourists.  

Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire

Windsor Castle is symbolic of the British monarchy. It took sixteen years of construction to complete this historical building which has stood firmly for the last 1000 years, with millions of ancient articles and modules.

According to the royals, Adolf Hitler also showed his interest in Windsor Castle due to its awe-inspiring architecture.

Hampton Court Palace

Elegant, royal, and steeped in British history, Hampton Court Palace is one of the most iconic landmarks in the UK. Located in London’s lush Richmond Park, this palace was originally built as a hunting lodge for Henry VIII. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to Hampton Court’s famous maze. The palace is also home to the Royal Mews—a collection of stables where you can see old cars and motorcycles used by kings over the centuries.

Eden Project, Cornwall

If you’re looking for something fascinating and environmentally- friendly, try visiting the Eden Project in Cornwall, southwest England. The area was created as an eco-friendly experiment where massive covered biomes are home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest. This is educational, sustainable AND fun, what more could you want?

Ben Nevis, Scottish Highlands

Ben Nevis is a mountain located in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides. It has an elevation of 1,344 meters above sea level, making it the highest peak in Britain outside England and Wales. The mountain is also famous for being one of the best places to see the Northern Lights during wintertime.

York Minster, York, England

Another one of the most fascinating landmarks in the UK is York Minster. The cathedral at Canterbury takes precedence over York Minster, the second largest church in England, and among the most beautiful landmarks in the UK. There are three kilometres of beautiful city walls that may be walked along to take in stunning vistas of the area. The National Railway Museum is a must-see and one of England’s most popular tourist destinations.

Balmoral Castle, Aberdeenshire, Scotland

Balmoral Castle is one of the private residences owned by Queen Elizabeth II because Queen Victoria, and Prince Albert initially bought it with their own money. That’s why it doesn’t belong to the Crown or government. The Castle encompasses the beauty of green forests, lochs, enchanted valleys, grouse moors, and much more. If you are interested in learning more about the royal family, this is one of the landmarks in the UK to include in your itinerary.

Warwick Castle, Warwickshire, England

The palace layout was designed in ancient motte-and-bailey in the beginning—the stone age hit in the 12th century, and Royals rebuilt it with stones. In the 14th century, it was again modified by the rulers and they kept the historical elements within the Castle. The Castle arranges annual, seasonal, and weekly historical programs and shows for people. 

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Wales

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a monument to the Industrial Revolution that is 18 kilometres long and 11 feet wide. Most of the tourists like to cover the distance with walking but you can also take a boat ride and relish the magnificent beauty. 

Wales Millennium Center

The Wales Millennium Center is one of Cardiff’s most popular cultural destinations. It presents small dance performances, comedy events, west end music and significant art exhibitions. This building is hard to ignore in the bay area due to its great metal, glass, and Welsh slate exterior. Watch a show, enjoy some artwork, and have a behind-the-scenes tour.

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Inverness-shire, Scotland

Glenfinnan Viaduct is situated between Fort William and Mallaig on Scotland’s West Highland. It was built between 1871 and 1890 by Thomas Bouch, who also designed many other bridges across Scotland, including Fife Bridge near Edinburgh, which leads into North Sea Oil Fields on Loch Leven Island.

Canterbury Cathedral

The Canterbury Cathedral is one of the most important architectural landmarks in the UK, which is why English Heritage has designated it as a Grade 1 listed building. The Canterbury Cathedral is a cathedral church in the English city of Canterbury. The building is a significant tourist attraction and have the Shrine of Saint Thomas Becket at its centre. 

Durham Cathedral, Durham, England

The cathedral has been around for over a millennium, making it a venerable old structure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to many priceless artefacts, some of which are allowed to be seen while others are concealed. When its magnificence is considered, it has become one of the top tourist attractions Landmarks in the UK.

St. Michael’s Mount, Cornwall

St. Michael’s Mount, another one of the most interesting landmarks in the UK, stands firmly on a tidal island and is accessible only at low tide. The fortress was initially constructed as an Anglo-Norman castle in 1233 by King Henry III. It was besieged twice during England’s Hundred Years’ War with France and served as a coastal defence facility during World War II.

Glen Coe, Scotland

Glen Coe is a remote glen in Highland Scotland, known for its beauty. The valley contains five lochs and three castles, surrounded by some of the tallest mountains in Britain. It has been the subject of many books and films, including “Harry Potter and The Half-Blood Prince”, making it one of the most popular landmarks in the UK.

Buckingham Palace, London

This is one of the most well-known landmarks in the UK. You can visit Buckingham Palace, where Queen Elizabeth II lives with her family in England. It had existed since 1837, when Queen Victoria grew too old to live alone at Windsor Castle. However, it is not open to visitors except on specific dates in summer; visitors must be pre-booked by their organisation or hotel.

Tower of London 

The Tower of London is one of my favourite landmarks in the UK. The Tower of London is a castle built to keep prisoners and protect them from enemies. It was built by William the Conqueror in 1066. The first record of prisoners being held there happened in 1191, when King Richard I ordered that over 2,000 Anglo-Saxon men be imprisoned for rebelling against him during the Crusades. 

Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle is one of the fortresses that has been preserved incredibly well, making it one of the best preserved landmarks in the UK. It has the most flawless set of medieval sovereign suites in Wales, with a high curtain wall and eight lofty towers. Don’t be scared to climb those stairs to get the whole Conwy experience. To appreciate this masterpiece of the Medieval Era, walk a complete circuit around the Castle’s battlements.

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is a realistic representation of Renaissance architecture that stands over the surrounding area for kilometres. Through its high stone walls, tourists may view Stirling Bridge’s battlefields, where large medieval battalions fought to determine the destiny of kingdoms. Mary Queen of Scots and other Scottish rulers have called the Castle as “Home”. 

Seven Sisters Cliffs, East Sussex

There are several fun things to do at Seven Sisters, depending upon what you are looking for; adventure or relaxation. Between Seaford and Eastbourne, a spectacular stretch of coastline includes the Beachy Head beauty spot and the Seven Sisters. This is one of the landmarks in the UK that is all about admiring the beauty of the great British landscape!

White Cliffs of Dover, Kent, England

The White Cliffs of Dover stand on the coast of England between France and England. These cliffs are famous for their white chalk cliffs and have been English icons since before Roman times. In World War II, these cliffs were bombed by Nazi Germany because they were an important symbol for the British with their historical connection to their allies France and Belgium.

Tyne Bridge, Newcastle, and Gateshead, England

You may choose between seven bridges spanning the River Tyne in and around Newcastle. All across the world, three of them are revered for the unique bridge construction method they codified. When it opened in 1928, King George V presided over the most prominent arch of any bridge in the world, the Tyne Bridge. 

Brighton Pier, East Sussex

Brighton Pier was one of my favourite landmarks in the UK as a child. A place with nostalgic beach vibes for everyone—young and old, big and small, Brighton Palace Pier has its famous fish and chip shop, fairground activities, two arcades, and “Palace Play,” the largest indoor soft play area in Brighton. Amazing views may be seen from the top of the hill, making it one of the best landmarks in the UK.

Natural History Museum, London, England

A must-see for every visitor to London is the National History Museum, one of the city’s most popular attractions. The museum is housed in a Romanesque structure with towering ceilings and grand stairs. If you love animals or want to view the massive blue whale skeleton serving as the lobby’s centrepiece, this is a fantastic way to spend a morning. What’s more, is that is one of the top free things to do in London.

Dunluce Castle, Northern Ireland

The castle is built on a cliff edge near the sea, almost midway between Portrush and the Giants Causeway. There is a general prime location with spectacular views of the Castle and the coastline near Portrush. Dunluce boasts a rich past filled with warriors, queens, and disputes. Moreover, grassland cranesbill in Dunluce Castle has breathtaking views, secret lanes, and its very own inflorescences garden. 

Caernarfon Castle, Gwynedd, Wales

And here we have another castle on this list of landmarks in the UK. This Castle is situated in North Wales, right in the middle of the city, by the River Seiont and the Menai Strait. The setting is exceptionally gorgeous, with reflections of the ocean, the Isle of Anglesey over the channel, and then back to the interior forward into Snowdonia National Park with its exquisite highs. One of the most visited landmarks in the UK for tourism. 

Tintern Abbey, Monmouthshire, Wales

Located in an area of outstanding natural beauty, one of the most famous ancient religious sites in the UK is Tintern Abbey. It is known for its scale, preservation, and dark, aging masonry. The ruined Cistercian abbey from the 12th century is its main tourist attraction.

The Major Oak, Nottinghamshire, England

Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/

The Major Oak is said to be more than ten centuries old, making it the oldest and largest oak tree in Britain. It has a massive canopy that rises to a staggering 28 meters in height (92ft). According to folklore, the gigantic oak was not only a haven for Robin Hood and his Merry Men but also their base of operations. It is one of the best landmarks in the UK because of its historical significance.

South Stack Lighthouse, Anglesey, Wales

South Stack Lighthouse, a historical and former lighthouse, is a popular visitor attraction for the coast views and visits to the lighthouse itself and the surrounding nature reserve. The enchanted view is not limited to mountains, valleys and oceans but also full of natural breeding of seabirds including razorbills and guillemots. 

Chatsworth House, Derbyshire

The collection of art at Chatsworth, home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, spans four millennia. The 105 acres of beautifully kept gardens at Chatsworth are a bonus to the mansion’s 25 exquisitely furnished suites. The greenery and serene views make it one of the most visited and best landmarks in the UK.

Roman Baths, Bath

The Roman Baths in Bath is another one of my favourite landmarks in the UK. Original details are famously well-preserved, earning the city a reputation as one of the finest in the world for this. Explore the legendary bathhouses and taprooms, and it will take you back to the Roman times that is 70 A.D. The stories of Bath’s past residents and the legacy they left behind will intrigue you!

St Davids Cathedral, Pembrokeshire, Wales

As you have probably noticed by now, there are several cathedrals that make for some of the best landmarks in the UK, including this one in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Even though the city is small, there are great tourist attractions, like St David’s Cathedral, which is magnificent on the outside and stunning inside. Enjoy the unique ambiance while learning so much about the religious history of Wales. There are a few steps and wheelchair-accessible routes to get to the entrance. 

Durdle Door, Dorset

Durdle Door is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and photogenic attractions and among the best landmarks in the UK. An arch of limestone, created over 10,000 years ago, stood proudly in crystal clear water. However, this is only a tiny section of the Jurassic Coast, which spans 95 miles down the South of England. Its varied, rocky shoreline and exceptional geology are well-known for showing over 185 million years of Earth’s history.

Ironbridge, Shropshire

Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/

Ironbridge Gorge and the town and bridge that bear its name are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Since 1779, this incredible cast-iron bridge has crossed the River Severn, becoming an icon of the city that gave birth to the Industrial Revolution. English Heritage has funded substantial repairs to the bridge.

Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh

The Palace of Holyroodhouse serves as a royal residence and is accessible to the general public all year. It is one of the landmarks in the UK that is a focal point for appreciating the best of Scotland. Moreover, it offers tours of its sumptuous staterooms and opulent grounds.

Cotswolds

The Cotswolds are a well-known tourist destination and one of Britain’s most recognisable areas (this area features in a lot of movies!). You should visit this prominent British monument if you like scenic landscapes and pleasant towns. There is a wide variety of activities available in this region, from hiking a national route to seeing historic castles.

Henrhyd Falls, Powys, Wales

Henrhyd, which plunges into the wooded Graig Llech Gorge, is best viewed after a heavy downpour.. The trail is boarded in some places, extremely narrow, and muddy in others. Because of the trees, the pathway is sheltered. It’s fantastic to go behind the waterfalls and see them.

The Peace Bridge, Derry, Northern Ireland

The Peace Bridge, which opened to the public in 2011, has quickly become a beloved feature of the city’s landscape. With its gracefully winding arcs, the bike and foot bridge represent peace and victory over hardship. It has been a Walled City landmark since its creation and provides the background to many of Londonderry’s world-famous events.

The Jurassic Coast

Beautiful and rich in Earth’s natural history, the Jurassic Coast is a must-see for every visitor to the United Kingdom. Along the coast, you may find several towns with tourist centers and museums where you can learn more about the area’s past. It’s 95 miles from Exmouth’s Orcombe Point to Dorset’s Old Harry Rocks.

Snowdon, Gwynedd, Wales

Another one of the most famous natural landmarks in the UK is Snowdon Mountain. The mountain is located in northern Wales and it is the highest point in England and Wales, 3,560 feet in height. Snowdon is the only rack-and-pinion railway in Britain, and on clear days, it gives a beautiful view. Snowdon is home to many Arthurian legends and an almost two-centuries-old gift store.

Callanis Standing Stones, Isle of Lewis

The unique Calanais Standing Stones are a cross-shaped arrangement of stones built 5,000 years ago. They are an extraordinary cross-shaped setting of stones that predate England’s famous Stonehenge monument.

Mussenden Temple, Londonderry, Northern Ireland

This is a beautiful place to stop and explore for an hour when touring Antrim’s northern coast in Northern Ireland. The Mussenden Temple is perched directly on the cliffside and was once a library, and explore the ruins of Downhill House.

Peak District National Park

The Peak District is a stunning rural area in England and home to be of the UK’s best national parks. Unique bike paths and mountain bike routes may be found in the Peak District National Park. There are many paths and trails for bicyclists to enjoy, and walkers of all skill levels will find much to do.

Glastonbury Tor, Glastonbury

Glastonbury Tor, overseen by the National Trust, provides visitors with breathtaking panoramas over the Somerset Levels, Dorset, Wiltshire, and Wales. The Tor is rich in history and has a reasonably bloody past along with its legacy.

Belfast Castle, Northern Ireland

Belfast Castle is found in the Cave Hill area of north Belfast. It was built in the 1860s and is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. A trip to the Castle is a must for history lovers and those wishing to see the city’s best views.

The Titanic, Belfast

Any visit to Belfast must have a stop at Titanic Belfast, a top tourist attraction in the world and one of the most famous landmarks in the UK related to the folktale of the eminent ship. The historical tale is not limited to just ships, but also enlightens about maiden voyage, customs, and culture of manufacturing of the 20th century. 

The Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland

One of the sites used to shoot scenes for “Game of Thrones” was the Dark Hedges in Northern Ireland. These trees were initially planted in the 18th century to serve as an arbor over the front door of a mansion. It’s said that the “Grey Lady often visits this area,” a ghost said to be resident in the hedges. That is an excellent choice for a frightening day trip if you’re in the mood for some scary fun.

Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh

One of four hill forts, Arthur’s Seat traces back about 2,000 years. In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Holyrood Park offers walks, serenity, wildlife, volcanic geology, and unmatched city views from its many vantage points.

Mull of Galloway, Scotland

The Mull of Galloway used to be a home for lighthouses, but now it has been occupied with historical elements, and on the top of the hill, you can cover the sight of four countries. You can also explore the wildlife in the exotic garden of Galloway, beaches, historic sites, and marine life.

Fingal’s Cave, Isle of Staffa, Scotland

Fingal’s Cave has many historical and folklore stories in it. The Cave is naturally composed of bizarre geometric basalt columns, and you’ll sense the peculiar sound when you walk in them. It is a fascinating landmark in the UK.

Forth Bridge, Edinburgh

Forth Bridge is standing firmly and holding the history of three decades. Suppose you are a traveler and history lover, then that’s your spot. The place enlightens the people about historical architecture and how modernism has evolved it.

Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands

The Loch Ness is eminent because of its astonishing tale about “Nessie”, the infamous Loch Ness Monster. Apart from this, you can sightsee the colossal lake and its marine life. It has a scenic beauty that will captivate your mind.

Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

Cheddar Gorge is one of the most stunning natural sites in the UK, close to the town of Cheddar. Here you can go on some incredible hikes, birdwatch or simply enjoy the great British countryside.

Stonehenge, Salisbury

Stonehenge is one of the most famous and visited landmarks in the UK. It offers a sight of the primitive lifestyle and grants you a chance to explore ancient architecture – stone circles, exhibitions, visitor centres, and much more.

Hadrian’s Wall, Northern England

The citadel on the border that faces eastward is the prominent Hadrian’s wall entrance. The place covers beautiful farmlands and garrison towns. Apart from this, you can visit Chester’s and the Corbridge trail and a museum that exhibits a collection of exquisite objects.

Blackpool Tower, Lancashire

Blackpool tower eye grants you a fantastic view of nature and the tower. You can explore the Blackpool tower ballroom, dungeon, and circus show. The whole outlook is full of wild stories, and don’t forget to watch the world view at the top of the top.

The Fourth Plinth, London

Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/

The Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square is a popular British destination that can elicit intense emotions. There’s no denying that visitors pass through the Plinth shifting artistry. It will either boost your mood or make you scream in disgrace! Additionally, it has emerged as among England’s most popular gathering places, such as “Meet me at the plinth.”

Palace of Westminster, London

The Palace of Westminster is more than just a royal residency. It carries history, politics, and a kingdom. The places you can hit are Westminster Hall, St Stephen’s Hall, The Lords Chamber, The Commons Chamber, Royal Gallery, and Central Lobby. It is also patented as one of the most thrilling and inspiring landmarks in the UK.

Selfridges building, Birmingham

The Selfridges building is a landmark in Birmingham, England. The building was designed by the architect Frank Lloyd Wright and completed in 1909. It was the first department store to have an integrated retail space and introduced escalators.

The Needles, Isle of Wight

You will find The Needles, an adventurous heart-shaped stone formation on the south coast of the Isle of Wight, England. The ever-changing landscape here, including southern coastal England’s most recognisable landmark Farne Islands, provides the potential subject matter for any photographer looking to shoot seascapes.

Avebury, Wiltshire

Avebury is a prehistoric monument containing three stone circles – nearly 6 km (3 3/4 m) in circumference- dating back to the Neolithic age in Britain. Modern-day visitors can enter the inner circle and explore it at leisure before seeing one of England’s most impressive megaliths up close. Along with this, you can see the Cerne Abbas Giant – a chalk carving by hill-figure artist John Henry Hill on a steep slope.

Cerne Abbas Giant, Dorset

Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/

The beautiful scenery of the enormous chalk drawings can be seen from the parking lot. The Giant can occasionally appear as nothing more than a faint silhouette or might be glaringly white depending on the angle and lighting. You can add a trek to the Giant’s Hill and around the fence surrounding the Giant on your bucket list. 

Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth

Spinnaker Tower’s 560-foot height keeps it firmly in place. At a distance of 23 miles, it starts to stand out. One of the contemporary landmarks in the UK, it first welcomed visitors in the twenty-first century. It ranks among Britain’s top observation towers, offering vistas of the Solent further than from its dizzying Sky Deck.

Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool

The Royal Albert Dock, a component of Liverpool’s traditional seafront, has the highest concentration of Grade I-listed structures in the entire United Kingdom. The thriving port, inaugurated in 1846, became one of the significant international commerce hubs. A museum on the docks currently examines the city’s involvement in many things. It is one of the nation’s most vibrant cultural centres.

Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

Giant’s Causeway resulted from the lava explosion and created magnificent beauty on the land in the form of hexagonal basalt columns. You can track down the Giant’s Causeway near the Dark Hedges. Tourists can enjoy strolling among the natural beauty or traversing nearby hiking paths to get a full view of the Giant’s Causeway.

Carrick-a-Rede, Northern Ireland

The rope bridge that links the land to the rock known as Carrick Island is one factor that makes Carrick-a-Rede a well-known landmark in the UK. The upwards of a 30-meter-high rope bridge over the waters is reliable. However, to traverse it, you’ll require some courage.

Anglesey Island, Wales

Anglesey Island is a large island in the Irish Sea, off the northwest coast of Wales. The name Anglesey is derived from Old Norse and refers to the “island of the English.”The island has been the site of many significant events in Welsh history, such as the Curse of Gwynedd, its occupation by Ireland in the 6th century, and the Norman invasion of Wales. 

Ulster Museum, Northern Ireland

Ulster Museum, also known as Armagh County Museum and located in Armagh, Northern Ireland, is one of Ireland’s five regional museums. The Ulster Museum holds an extensive collection of archaeological artefacts, local history items, and paintings that chart life in Ulster from prehistoric times to the modern day.

Torr Head Scenic Road, Northern Ireland

Torr Head Scenic Road is on the northwest coast of Northern Ireland, about 3 miles north-east of Ballycastle. It has a beautiful riverscape, greenery and much more to explore in the sea world.  

London Eye

You can see the whole city by sitting on this Millennium Wheel, known as the London Eye. The London Eye is one of the most famous tourist attractions in London. It is a tall, metal cantilever on the South Bank of the River Thames in London that has become a recognisable city symbol.

Big Ben

Big Ben is found inside the Palace of Westminster on the north bank of the River Thames in London. In 1858, The House of Commons chamber was over the central entrance vestibule. As the bell tower is situated in the middle of Westminster Abbey, Big Ben cannot be seen from this side and can only be seen across the River Thames. The clock faces are on each side of the tower, and one look celebrates British military victories.

Angel of the North, Gateshead

The Angel of the North is a monumental sculpture in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, England. It is a giant steel sculpture in the UK designed by Antony Gormley. It is an abstract human figure with a wingspan of 20 meters (66 ft) and stands on a hill overlooking the A1(M) motorway near Gateshead. It is part of an art project entitled “Another Place,” which consists of 100 cast iron figures on Tyneside.

The Kelpies, Falkirk

The Kelpies are a series of two 30-meter-tall horse heads beside the M9 motorway in Falkirk in Scotland. They were designed by sculptor Andy Scott and were unveiled on 23 September 2013. They have become an iconic landmark for the town of Falkirk, Scotland.

Landmarks in the UK- Final Thoughts 

From the legends of the Scottish Highlands to the Mull of Galloway to Stonehenge, all British landmarks are full of beautiful scenery and exciting history. Make sure to check out these landmarks when you are in the UK!

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