Survey Reveals Britain's Top Unusual Attractions This Summer

Up to 12 million Brits are embracing weird and wonderful days out this summer, swapping buckets and spades for spell books and broomsticks, according to new research by London North Eastern Railway (LNER).

More than a quarter (26%) say they are drawn to days out exploring myths and legends, while 17% want to see places associated with witch trials.

Top unusual attractions

The top three unusual attractions are The Museum of Witchcraft & Magic in Cornwall (14%), followed by The Shambles in York (12%), known for inspiring Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley, and Edinburgh’s spooky vaults.

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Colette Casey, customer experience director at LNER, said: ‘People are increasingly looking for days out that feel rewarding, whether that’s uncovering a hidden piece of history, discovering somewhere they’ve never visited before or spending quality time together as a family.’

The trend is also driven by the rising cost of living, with 33% saying they now seek out affordable and memorable experiences closer to home.

New series exploring hidden histories

LNER has teamed up with historian Katie Kennedy, known as The History Gossip, to launch a new online series for the summer holidays. Each episode of The History Gossip’s Hidden Journeys explores stories from destinations across the UK, uncovering hidden histories, curious legends and unusual attractions.

Katie said: ‘One of the best things about Britain is that you never have to travel very far to stumble across an incredible story. Some of our most fascinating places are hidden in plain sight – from Viking settlements and witch trial sites to underground streets, mysterious caves and attractions that have inspired centuries of myths and legends.’