On the occasion of the fast-approaching coronation of King Charles III, digital travel platform Agoda compiled a list of the six most searched destinations in the United Kingdom for travel this May.
According to the Agoda list, the Scottish capital Edinburgh comes in second place, while London takes the top spot as the UK’s most popular inbound tourism destination. Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Birmingham round up the top six tourist sites in the country. Agoda says that the coronation may have triggered a higher demand for the UK since compared to the same month in 2022, there were approximately 2.5 times as many searches for travel to the UK. It goes on to list the top cities that tourists look for, in their searches.
London
Iconic landmarks, world-class museums and luxury shopping districts is what sets London apart to take the first spot on the list, says the statement. Agoda adds that visitors can enjoy breathtaking performances at the Royal Opera House, see the Tower of London to see the Crown Jewels, or eat at The Shard while taking in views of the London skyline in addition to visiting Buckingham Palace and seeing the changing of the guards there.
Edinburgh
Agoda says that Scotland’s capital is renowned for its opulent castles and ancient structures. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll down Princes Street, which is surrounded by shops, eateries, and breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle, or visiting Edinburgh Castle perched on a hill overlooking the city. Sights along the Royal Mile, a famed boulevard that runs from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, are also popular. The stunning State Apartments, where the nobility has hosted audiences and parties for generations, may be seen during a guided tour.
Manchester
As one of England’s largest cities, Manchester boasts a rich industrial heritage which to this day plays a significant role in Britain’s economic and political landscape, adds Agoda. The opulent Manchester Town Hall, which features intricate Victorian Gothic architecture, or a stroll through the Chetham’s Library, the world’s oldest library as well as the Royal Exchange Theatre for a more creative escape, are some of the most cherished tourist spots, says the statement.
Liverpool
Agoda says that the vibrant Merseyside city is famous for its cultural heritage and music royalty, most famously of course: The Beatles. Visitors can take a tour through the majestic Liverpool Cathedral, which boasts the largest pipe organ in the UK or take a walk along the picturesque Albert Dock. They can also indulge in a drink at a vast, grand building that has been transformed into a swanky cocktail bar, The Royal Institution, right in the heart of the city centre.
Glasgow
Next on Agoda’s list is Scotland’s biggest city that is known for its stunning architecture and rich history, and had in fact been crowned the European City of Culture 30 years ago. Here, visitors can discover creative centres like the Hidden Lane, or tour the opulent Glasgow City Chambers. Tourists can also opt for the towering Finnieston Crane, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and immerse in the masterpieces by artists like Van Gogh and Rembrandt.
Birmingham
With gorgeous canals sprawl across the city, offering visitors a great view and atmosphere during a leisurely stroll, Birmingham is immensely popular among visitors, says Agoda, adding that the Birmingham Cathedral, which has been a place of worship for over 300 years and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, houses an impressive collection of art and artefacts from around the world, are among some of the top attractions here.