The visitor numbers for UK tourist attractions in 2025 are out now, with a record-breaking 7.1 million people flocking to the number one spot.
London’s Natural History Museum, located in South Kensington, claimed the title of most-visited attraction in 2025, beating the British Museum which came in second place.
This is the first time more than seven million people have visited the NHM, and it is an all-time record for any UK museum or gallery. In 2025, the museum opened Our Story with David Attenborough, an immersive experience covering the evolution of life on earth narrated by the legendary British broadcaster.
The numbers come from the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA), which has reported visitor figures from its members since 2004.
“Every year millions of people come to Britain drawn by our first-class heritage and cultural attractions including the world-renowned Natural History Museum, inspired by the mix of history, storytelling, the brilliant exhibitions and experiences,” said VisitBritain/VisitEngland CEO Patricia Yates.
“Those visitors then go on to explore other destinations across Britain, supporting our restaurants, high streets, shops, pubs and hotels, and boosting the wider economy.”
The most popular tourist attractions across the UK in 2025
Third place went to Windsor Great Park, which is part of The Crown Estate, the only attraction outside of London in the top 10. Visitors head here to experience The Long Walk, the four-kilometre tree-lined avenue down to Windsor Castle, and the deer park (and to potentially catch a glimpse of King Charles).
Other big-hitting museums and galleries in the top 10 include Southbank’s contemporary art gallery, the Tate Modern (fourth), The National Gallery in Trafalgar Square (fifth), the Southbank Centre (sixth), the V&A South Kensington (seventh), and the Science Museum (10th).
Somerset House, which hosts concerts in the summer, an ice rink in the winter, and exhibitions year-round, was the eighth most-visited place, while the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tower of London came in ninth.
Within the top 25, a further six attractions outside of London made the list. These include the National Museum of Scotland (12th), Edinburgh Castle (15th), the Scottish National Gallery (16th), Windsor Castle (23rd), RHS Garden Wisley (24th) and Stonehenge (25th).
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