The United Kingdom is home to 33 UNESCO World Heritage Sites recognized for their cultural, historical, scientific, or other forms of significance.
The listed landmarks are dotted across the country and protected by their World Heritage status.
Every nation in the UK has at least one UNESCO landmark, so you will not need to travel too far to visit a site for yourself during a trip to the UK.
Here are four UNESCO World Heritage Sites you must visit in the UK.
Stonehenge – Wiltshire, England
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The construction of Stonehenge is believed to have commenced somewhere between 3000 BC to 1600 BC.
It is internationally regarded as one of the most impressive structures of this time, as the founders will have moved the four-tonne stones hundreds of miles without technological advances.
What’s more, Stonehenge’s purpose is a mystery despite extensive archaeological investigations and historic research.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, you are sure to scratch your head when viewing the ancient landmark for yourself.
Giant’s Causeway – County Antrim, Northern Island
Approximately one million people travel to County Antrim every year to view Giant’s Causeway.
The scenic beauty will take your breath away, and locals believe it to be the 8th Wonder of the World.
While it isn’t an official wonder of the world, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986.
Giant’s Causeway is based at the foot of the seacoast’s basalt cliffs on the Antrim plateau’s edge, and it is hard not to feel impressed by the hexagonal basalt rocks and columns created approximately 60 million years ago due to volcanic activity.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal – Llangollen, Wales
Pontcycsyllte Aqueduct and Canal opened in November 1805 after ten years of construction.
Despite being more than 200 years old, it continues to be the longest aqueduct in Great Britain and is regarded as the world’s highest canal aqueduct.
Situated over the gorgeous River Dee, the 18-kilometer aqueduct is a feat of engineering, which UNESCO has since called “a masterpiece of creative genius.”
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009, it is easily one of the most beautiful sights to behold in Wales, which is why you shouldn’t miss it during a trip to the picturesque nation.
The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh – Edinburgh, Scotland
Scotland offers one of the most remarkable landscapes in the world, and its capital Edinburgh is no exception.
Its Old and New Towns are so rich in history, beauty, and cultural significance that they gained UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1995.
The two distinctive towns secured the coveted listing due to the quality and contrast of their streetscaping and architecture between the Georgian New Town and the Medieval Old Town.
Also, it’s home to many world-famous landmarks, such as Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Offering narrow passageways, historic buildings, and Georgian town planning, you will never forget a trip to this modern yet traditional capital.
