The most Instagrammable and TikTokable spots in the UK.
Social media has transformed how people discover and experience the world. Eye-catching photos and creative videos posted online have turned some places into trending locations, attracting visitors eager to capture their own content. By analysing social media data and surveying over 1,000 British people, Adobe Express has identified the UK's most "Instagrammable" and "TikTokable" destinations.
Key takeaways.
- Stonehenge, The Shard, and Kew Gardens are the most Instagrammed UK locations.
- Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and Hyde Park are the most TikToked UK locations.
- Nature and landscapes, iconic landmarks, and aesthetic beauty are the top factors that make destinations Instagrammable.
- The Tower of London, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge are the top three must-visit destinations for UK tourists.
Overview.
Top Instagrammed spots in the UK.
Certain UK locations have become highly sought-after backdrops for Instagram posts. The top spots are a mix of history, modern architecture, and natural beauty.
Stonehenge topped the list of the most Instagrammable UK destinations, captivating visitors with its ancient stone formations and mystical atmosphere. The Shard, a towering symbol of modern London, placed second, likely due to its striking views and sleek architecture, which stand out on any feed.
Kew Gardens, known for its lush botanical collections and stunning glasshouses, ranked third. Whether framed by sunsets or misty mornings, these locations deliver unbeatable visuals for content creators.
Most TikToked spots in the UK.
Destinations that offer dynamic visuals and experiences tend to dominate on TikTok. The UK's top landmarks have found a new audience on the platform, inspiring creative storytelling and trends.
Big Ben took the number one spot as the most TikToked location. Its iconic status and timeless design provide endless inspiration, from slow-motion reveals to glowing nighttime clips. Tower Bridge followed closely, offering dramatic views as its grand structure spans the Thames. Rounding out the top three is Hyde Park, known for its serene landscapes and wide-open spaces perfect for capturing scenic moments.
What makes a destination Instagrammable?
Are there elements that consistently make destinations stand out on social media? Here's what Brits think is needed to make a location post-worthy.
According to survey responses, the top three factors making a destination Instagrammable are nature and landscapes, iconic landmarks, and aesthetic beauty. Gen Z gravitated most toward aesthetic beauty and standout food and drink experiences, with Lake District National Park emerging as their favourite Instagrammable spot.
Gen X favoured iconic landmarks, which explains their top pick — Big Ben. Millennials considered Edinburgh Castle the ultimate destination for creating Instagram videos and photos. As for preferences by gender, British men considered Big Ben the most Instagrammable location, while women favoured Edinburgh Castle in Scotland.
When asked about must-visit destinations for tourists, the British ranked the Tower of London, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge as the top three sites.
Recommendations varied by generation, with baby boomers favouring the Tower of London, St. Paul's Cathedral, and Hadrian's Wall. Gen X prioritised scenic and architectural spots like Tower Bridge, Lake Windermere, and the Royal Mile. While the youngest group, Gen Z, was most likely to recommend a visit to the University of Oxford for its stunning campus architecture.
Tips for capturing the best content at iconic UK locations.
From national landmarks to natural landscapes, the UK offers plenty of inspiration for social media content creators. Consider these quick tips to capture the best photos and videos on your next adventure:
- Plan for soft, natural lighting. Use the golden hour or overcast days to avoid harsh lighting and create a flattering, warm glow.
- Experiment with creative framing. Frame your shots through natural or architectural features, reflections, or unique angles to add depth and interest.
- Add movement to create dynamic visuals. Capture flowing water, swaying plants, or walking sequences to make your content feel more lively and engaging.
- Focus on small details and textures. Highlight intricate patterns, vibrant florals, or textured surfaces to give your photos and videos a more visually rich quality.
- Use layers to build contrast and depth. Blend foreground and background elements to create striking compositions.
With these tips, content creators can transform the UK's most Instagrammed and TikToked locations into personalized, share-worthy memories that leave a lasting impression.
Methodology.
Adobe analysed data from Instagram and TikTok to identify the most geo-tagged destinations in the UK and determine which locations were the most 'Instagrammable' and 'Tiktokable.' We also surveyed 1,016 British people about their thoughts on Instagrammable features and locations they consider a 'must visit' for UK tourists. Among respondents, 44% were millennials, 31% were Gen X, 14% were Gen Z, and 11% were baby boomers. Responses were collected on 6th January 2025.
Fair use statement.
These findings can be shared for noncommercial purposes, provided proper attribution is given to Adobe through a link.