Cost of Visiting England’s Tourist Attractions Soars up to 54% in Just 3 Years
From ancient castles to fun family spots, exploring England’s top attractions now comes with a heftier price tag – can we afford it?
Exploring England’s iconic attractions is getting a lot more expensive, with ticket prices shooting up by as much as 54% in the past three years. Whether it’s a famous castle or a fun family day out, visitors are definitely feeling the squeeze – and it’s got both tourists and locals wondering if sightseeing is turning into a luxury.
York Minster: the highest price hike
York Minster has experienced the most significant increase in ticket prices among UK attractions over the past three years.
A study by the consumer group Which? reveals that the cost of entry has surged by 54%, rising from £13 in 2022 to £20 in 2025. This substantial increase raises concerns about the attraction’s visitor numbers.
If prices had instead risen in-line with inflation, £13 tickets in 2022 would cost just £14.48 as of December last year, an increase of just 11 per cent.
Other notable attractions with rising costs
Several other prominent England attractions have also seen notable price increases.
- St Paul’s Cathedral, for instance, has experienced a 24% rise in entry fees, with prices climbing from £21 to £26.
- Similarly, Westminster Abbey’s ticket prices have increased by £5, now costing £30.
- The Tower of London, which was the most popular paid attraction in 2023, has not been immune to these hikes, with a 17% increase bringing the cost to £34.80.
How much are theme parks these days?
When compared to major theme parks such as Alton Towers, Thorpe Park, and Chessington World of Adventures, which offer tickets starting at £29, the cost of visiting historical and cultural sites appears steep.
This comparison underscores the need for attractions to balance pricing with the value offered to visitors, particularly families and budget-conscious tourists.
How to see attractions for less
To help mitigate these rising costs, tourists can take advantage of public transport options, which often provide a more economical way to travel.
Additionally, National Rail offers two-for-one ticket deals for several attractions, including Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral, providing a cost-effective solution. There are many ways to save money on days out in England – you can find out more here.
Implications for tourists
England’s top tourist spots are getting pricier, and it’s not just loose change we’re talking about. While the extra cash might be going toward sprucing things up and keeping attractions in tip-top shape, the rising costs could end up scaring off some visitors.
It’s a tricky balancing act for the tourism industry – keeping places relevant without making them too expensive to enjoy. Finding that sweet spot between value and experience will be key to keeping England’s tourism scene buzzing.
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