Britain's most enchanting attractions are drawing families away from the beach this summer, as up to 12 million people embrace the weird and wonderful. New research by London North Eastern Railway (LNER) reveals a growing fascination with the darker side of the country's history, with more than a quarter (26%) drawn to myths and legends and 17% wanting to visit sites associated with witch trials.
Top Unusual Attractions
The Museum of Witchcraft & Magic in Cornwall tops the list at 14%, followed by The Shambles in York (12%), which inspired Harry Potter's Diagon Alley, and Edinburgh's spooky vaults (11%). Other popular spots include the Dracula Experience in Whitby, the Smallest House in Great Britain in Conwy, Whitby Abbey, Lake District Pencil Museum, The Forbidden Corner in Yorkshire, JORVIK Viking Centre in York, and The Real Mary King's Close in Edinburgh.
Easily Accessible by Train
Two-thirds of people say they would be more likely to visit attractions if they were easy to reach by train. LNER's customer experience director Colette Casey 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." She added: "Our research suggests there's a real appetite to explore more of what Britain has to offer."
The cost of living is also driving the trend, with 33% seeking affordable and memorable experiences closer to home. LNER has partnered with historian Katie Kennedy, known as The History Gossip, to launch an online series called 'The History Gossip’s Hidden Journeys with LNER' for the summer holidays. Each episode explores hidden histories, curious legends and unusual attractions across the UK.
Hidden Stories
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." She noted that the strange can make for "unforgettable" family memories. The series is available on Katie Kennedy's social channels.
Britain's Top 10 Unusual Attractions
- Museum of Witchcraft & Magic, Cornwall - 14%
- The Shambles, York - 12%
- Edinburgh Vaults, Edinburgh - 11%
- Dracula Experience, Whitby - 11%
- The Smallest House in Great Britain, Conwy - 11%
- Whitby Abbey, North Yorkshire - 11%
- Lake District Pencil Museum, Cumbria - 10%
- The Forbidden Corner, Yorkshire - 10%
- JORVIK Viking Centre, York - 9%
- The Real Mary King's Close, Edinburgh - 9%
