A recent study has identified some of the UK's most disappointing tourist attractions, with high prices and long queues leaving visitors feeling underwhelmed. As families plan summer day trips, consumer website idealo analysed visitor reviews to compile a 'tourist trap score' for popular staycation spots.
Thorpe Park Tops the List
Surrey-based Thorpe Park received the highest tourist trap score of 10 out of 10. The study found that over one in five reviews (21.08%) mentioned cost-related complaints, with visitors frequently describing the experience as 'overpriced' or not worth the ticket price. While entry starts at £32 for adults, additional in-park spending can quickly increase the overall cost. Overcrowding was also a major issue, with 15.27% of reviews referencing queues and busy conditions. Cleanliness concerns appeared more frequently than at most other attractions.
Alton Towers Ranks Second
Another Merlin Entertainments theme park, Alton Towers in Staffordshire, came in second place. The study revealed that 33.56% of reviews were rated three stars or below. While fewer visitors complained about overcrowding compared to Thorpe Park, value for money remained a recurring issue, with 18.51% of reviews highlighting cost concerns. Many reviews mentioned the word 'rip-off', indicating frustration with the overall value.
In response, a spokesperson for Merlin Entertainments said: 'We're committed to delivering great days out and continuously improving the guest experience. While peak periods can be busy, we provide tools such as live queue-time information and crowd calendars to help guests plan their visit. Direct guest feedback remains positive, with record satisfaction scores achieved in 2025, including across our UK theme parks. We're continuing to invest in our attractions – from new rides and seasonal events to enhanced food, retail and accommodation offerings.'
Eden Project Takes Third Place
The Eden Project in Cornwall rounded off the top three. This complex, known for its large domes housing thousands of plant species, had a slightly stronger average rating of 3.9. However, it had the highest proportion of monetary complaints, with 37.85% of negative reviews mentioning price. An adult ticket costs £35.50 if booked in advance, with an additional £12.50 for a child ticket. While under-5s go free, the cost can add up for families.
A spokesperson for the Eden Project said: 'This year, the Eden Project celebrates 25 years as a global garden and education charity. We're proud that 70% of visitors rate their experience at four or five stars. Our General Admission and discounted Locals' Passes offer unlimited entry for a full year. We reduced our General Admission ticket price this year and welcome the government's announcement to reduce VAT from 20% to 5% for family attractions this summer. We intend to pass on these savings to our visitors. As a charity, we work hard to provide strong value for money while delivering an ever-evolving visitor experience.'
Other Findings
Idealo concluded that across the top three tourist traps, it is not the attractions themselves that fall short, but the gap between expectation, price, and reality. At the other end of the list, attractions such as Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Durham Cathedral, and the National Museum of Scotland were praised for offering good value and organisation.
