Top 10 Instagrammable Locations in the UK

Are you guilty of visiting a location or landmark ‘for the gram?’ You’re not alone. In fact, 30% of people claim to have visited a spot just to snap a picture. And it’s nothing to be ashamed of!

Today, social media plays such a massive role in our lives and is vital to the tourism industry, with 53% of people saying they are influenced to visit a place by someone else’s social media posts. As well as driving tourists to famous landmarks, travel influencers on Instagram also have the means to market lesser-known destinations, raise the profile of local businesses and support the local economy.

While some believe it takes the magic and spontaneity out of travel, it could also be argued the desire to ‘do it for the gram’ gets people to visit new places and experience new things they wouldn’t otherwise have thought to. Which can only be a good thing, right?

Whichever camp you fall into, you’re likely interested in finding out which are the top Instagrammable locations in the UK. And lucky for you, we’ve compiled an eclectic list of landmarks, villages and even cafes that every travel influencer has on their bucket list…

Stonehenge, Wiltshire, England

Dating back to around 2500 BC, this prehistoric stone complex (and UNESCO World Heritage Site) is one of the most famous landmarks in the UK. But it’s also one of the most mysterious because there’s still no definite answer to how the stones got there and the purpose they originally served.

Unless you’re on a private tour or taking part in one of the Pagan festivals linked with Stonehenge, the closest you can get to the stones is about 10 yards. But don’t worry, it’s still easy to get a great Instagram snap from afar. Search #Stonehenge on Instagram and scroll through the thousands of grid shots for proof!

2. Royal Pavilion, Brighton, England

The Royal Pavilion in Brighton is not the type of building you expect to see in the UK, but a very welcome surprise. Erected in the 19th Century as a seaside getaway for King George IV, the striking oriental-inspired building has become one of the top Instagrammable landmarks in the country.

But it's not the only Insta-hot spot in Brighton...

There's also Brighton Pier! A fun place to spend the day and great for Instagram snaps, with 62,000 lightbulbs illuminating the pier. So, grab some candy floss and strike a pose. Just beware of lurking seagulls, or your Instagram photo might go viral for a whole other reason!

3. Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland

Like Stonehenge, Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland is another awe-inspiring Instagrammable landmark clouded in mystery. No one knows precisely how the basalt columns were formed, but there are plenty of theories! Some believe they were created by a volcanic eruption over 60,000 years ago. Others believe they were built by giants, and we don’t know about you, but we like this magical idea a whole lot more!

4. Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh certainly isn’t short of stunning photographable locations, but one of the most gram-worthy has to be Arthur’s Seat. Located at the highest point of Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat (an ancient volcano) sits 251m above sea level and offers striking panoramic views of the city and beyond. It’s also the site of a large and well-preserved hillfort, dating from around 2000 years ago, with a diverse range of flora.

Whether you’re picnicking, proposing or poised to get the perfect photo, it’s well-worth the hike.

5. Castle Combe, Cotswolds, England

Escape the stressors of modern life with a trip to ‘the prettiest village in England.’ Castle Combe, nestled in the picturesque Cotswolds has long attracted history buffs and mediaeval architecture enthusiasts, but more recently, tourists keen to capture a perfectly preserved slice of the past on camera.

One of the village’s most significant landmarks is the 14th-century market cross, the home of weekly markets during a time when the sheep and wool trade thrived in Castle Combe. It’s also worth visiting the church of St. Andrew, which houses the Castle Combe Clock - thought to be the oldest English mediaeval clock still in use.

6. Mermaid Street, Rye, East Sussex, England

Speaking of picturesque villages, Rye in East Sussex is also considered one of the most beautiful historic towns in the UK. Many describe its scenery as fairytale-like with beautifully quaint cobbled streets lined with fascinating Tudor and Georgian buildings.

And if you’re lucky enough to be visiting Rye, you simply must snap a photo on Mermaid Street - voted one of the most Instagrammable streets in the UK for its quintessential English charm.

7. Snowdon, Snowdonia National Park, Wales

We couldn't very well share a list of top Instagrammable locations in the UK without a mountain on it! Standing 1085m above sea level, Snowdon is the highest mountain in the UK outside of the Scottish Highlands. Frosted in snow, it's easily one of the most iconic Instagram spots out there. And the national park itself is another must-visit, with beautiful lakes and countryside views an Instagrammer's dream. But don't forget to put your phone down every once in a while and witness the beauty with your own eyes too.

8. Peggy Porschen, London, England

Now, we all know London has plenty of Instagrammable landmarks. From Big Ben to Buckingham Palace, you’ll be simply spoilt for choice. However, for the Instagram influencers out there, it’s all about getting the perfect shot of Belgravia cafe Peggy Porschen.

Painted pink and adorned with beautiful flowers, it’s no real surprise that Peggy Porchscen is a huge hit with fashion, lifestyle and travel bloggers alike. But don’t just snap and go. Instead, head inside and treat yourself to one of the delicious cakes. You deserve a treat, and it’s a great way to support the business for being so bloomin’ beautiful!

9. Land’s End, Cornwall, England

Booking a staycation in Cornwall? Plan a day trip to Land’s End - the most south-westerly point of mainland Britain, known for its iconic signpost. Not only is it a great place to snap a selfie for your grid, but it’s also a lovely location to sit, relax and enjoy the sea views.

10. Baltic Triangle, Liverpool, England

Last but certainly not least on our list of Instagrammable locations in the UK, we have Liverpool’s Baltic Triangle. We told you it was an eclectic list! Known for its indie start-ups, cool cafes and colourful street art, it’s a must-visit for Instagrammers wanting to brighten up their grids.

Be sure to stop by Jamaica Street and pose for a photo in front of ‘The Liverpool Wings’ by Paul Curtis. This mural has become a huge social media sensation and is described as ‘the best place to take your new profile picture.’

Enjoyed our post? Share it with your friends on social media, and let us know your favourite places to take Instagram photos in the UK.