Bath is the UK's most overcrowded tourist destination, according to a study by holiday website HeyDiscount. The Lake District and Newquay follow in the ranking, which also features London, York and Cambridge.
The study considered factors including holiday-rental properties, house prices and housing affordability, rather than a definitive count of tourist crowds. The list highlights 10 destinations facing growing pressure from visitors, with concerns over congestion, housing and the impact on local communities.
Oxford and Brighton under pressure
Oxford's historic colleges, university heritage and museums make it a major stop on Britain's tourist trail. Coach tours and day trips can concentrate large numbers of people around central landmarks and narrow streets.
The city benefits from visitor spending, but congestion and the management of tour groups can be difficult in its historic centre. As in Cambridge, the question is how to make tourism work for local businesses and residents while protecting the places that attract visitors in the first place.
Brighton's seafront, independent shops, nightlife and cultural attractions draw visitors throughout the year, with particularly busy spells during summer and major events. Its proximity to London also makes it a popular choice for day trips.
Whitby and Bournemouth face peak-time strain
Whitby's harbour, fish-and-chip shops, historic streets and dramatic abbey ruins have helped turn the North Yorkshire fishing town into a favourite seaside break. Its popularity can be particularly noticeable during holidays and events, when queues form at popular eateries and parking spaces become scarce.
A 2025 report by local tourism site The Whitby Guide described concerns about full car parks, queues and the effect of growing visitor numbers on the town.
Bournemouth's sandy beaches, seafront and traditional seaside attractions make it a popular destination during warm weather and school holidays. When visitor numbers surge, demand rises for parking, public toilets, waste collection and other services.
