The attraction served the British monarchy for more than four decades (Image: Getty) This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
The UK has no shortage of incredible places to visit. There are magnificent bridges you can walk across, world-famous museums packed with treasures and even ancient Roman remains. Each attraction offers something different, whether it’s history, architecture or simply a great day out.
But according to Tripadvisor’s latest ranking of the Top Attractions in the United Kingdom, the country’s best attraction is neither of those. Instead, the number one spot has gone to a former royal ship measuring 126 metres in length.
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Royal Yacht Britannia travelled more than one million nautical miles during her career (Image: Getty)
TripAdvisor’s list places the Royal Yacht Britannia at the top with a rating of 4.7 out of five from more than 25,000 reviews.
The rest of the top five features The Real Mary King’s Close in second place, the Bodleian Library in third, the Roman Baths in fourth and the British Museum in fifth.
Tower Bridge ranks seventh on the list, while Stonehenge comes in at number 11.
The Royal Yacht Britannia served the British monarchy for more than four decades. Launched in 1953 and in service from 1954 until 1997, she was the 83rd royal yacht since King Charles II acceded to the throne in 1660.
She is the second vessel to bear the name, following a racing cutter built for the Prince of Wales in 1893.
During her 43-year career, the yacht travelled more than one million nautical miles, visiting over 600 ports in 135 countries. The ship measures 412ft (126m) in length, has a beam of 55ft (17m) and a tonnage of 5,769 GT.
Britannia is permanently berthed at Ocean Terminal in Leith, Edinburgh (Image: Getty)
Ship bell on HM Royal Yacht Britannia (Image: Getty)
Now retired from royal service, Britannia is permanently berthed at Ocean Terminal in Leith, Edinburgh, where she operates as a visitor attraction.
Visitors begin their tour on the second floor of Ocean Terminal before stepping aboard to explore five decks with an audio guide.
Guests can walk through the State Apartments, visit the Bridge, see Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite room and explore the Crew’s Quarters and Engine Room. There is also a Royal Sailing Exhibition and the Royal Deck Tearoom overlooking the waterfront.
Tickets are sold by arrival time, and visitors can stay on board as long as they wish within opening hours.
Adult tickets range from £22 to £25. Young people, students and children aged 16 to 21 pay between £11.50 and £12.50, while NATO Armed Forces tickets range from £14 to £17. Children aged six and under go free.
And according to those who have already visited, it’s definitely worth it.
The ship measures 412ft (126m) in length and has a beam of 55ft (17m) (Image: Getty)
One person wrote: “Didn’t know what to expect from this tour, but we were pleasantly surprised. This tour covered everything on the yacht the history of it and walking in the steps of royalty was amazing.
“The tea room was amazing offering a variety of drinks and snacks overlooking the dock area. You won’t be disappointed if you love the royal family and especially the Queen.”
Another said: “A charming and nostalgic journey into what seems like a distant past. Everything is preserved and described in vivid detail. A remarkable ship.”
A third added: “Wow, this was an amazing day out. The layout is well thought out and designed to accommodate everyone. You get to look into every area of the yacht as well as its detailed history and how it was run. The yacht is immaculately maintained, and the tearoom is the cherry on top.”
Someone else commented: “Loved this tour with my whole heart. Felt like a very special thing to do. Very good staff in all areas, lovely welcome.”
Tickets can be purchased here.