The UK’s Most Instagrammable Buildings

In the UK, famous landmarks are around every metaphorical corner. From timeless palaces and medieval fortresses to ultra-modern skyscrapers, pubs, entire villages, and even the crayon-coloured beach huts in Lyme Regis, a building’s ability to captivate audiences on Instagram can greatly influence its popularity and perception in the real world. These elements compel travellers to get their phones out, frame that breathtaking shot, and share it with the world. But when it comes to the most snapped landmarks in the UK, where exactly are they?

Come with us on the tourist trail as we guide you through an exploration of the UK’s most Instagrammable buildings, from its celebrated tourist hotspots to its secret architectural wonders. Let’s zoom in on some of the most photographed UK buildings alongside those hidden gems that will light up your feed and inspire your followers.

London is one of the world’s most visited cities, and is packed full of some of the most perennially popular, iconic and famous landmarks in the UK. Tower Bridge with its striking blue suspension spans, the neo-Gothic grandeur of the Palace of Westminster, and the shimmering, skyline-piercing glass façade of The Shard. Buckingham Palace and St Paul’s Cathedral are also tourist magnets, providing a timeless backdrop for any Instagram feed. These sites, offering a mix of historical significance and visual appeal, draw millions of visitors each year, each eager to capture their own unique angle of these well-loved icons, turning them into perfect subjects for social media posts.

The Elizabeth Tower isn’t just one of the most visited tourist attractions in the UK, it’s one of, if not the, most photographed UK buildings. The iconic clock tower stands at the north end of the Palace of Westminster – commonly known as the Houses of Parliament – and while most people know it as ‘Big Ben’, that’s actually the nickname of the Great Bell inside the tower, and not the tower itself.

St Dunstan in the East, hidden between bustling streets, offers a secret garden sanctuary in London. Its partially ruined church walls are draped in lush greenery, creating a magical fusion of nature and Gothic architecture. Wander through tranquil arches and discover a peaceful haven perfect for capturing awe-inspiring shots. If you’re lucky enough to peek in on a sunny day, the stunning mix of light and shadow makes every angle Insta-worthy.

Very few landmarks in the UK are as famous as Westminster Abbey. The eleventh century church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and most recently was the location of the wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton, the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, and the funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

There are dozens of markets dotted all over London, but few are as beautifully ornate as Leadenhall Market in the heart of the City. The market dates from the fourteenth century but the stunning roof, designed by famous nineteenth century architect Sir Horace Jones, was added in the 1880s, and is one of the most Insta-worthy landmarks in the UK.

In the UK, famous landmarks aren’t just limited to London! Hidden gems and architectural marvels can be found all over the country, offering unique photo-ops for those travelling the length and breadth of the country. From colourful seaside towns to picturesque countryside manors, the UK is home to a range of striking structures that capture the imagination and the camera lens in equal measure.

Picture the mesmerising curves of the Royal Crescent in Bath, stunning stone cottages in the Cotswolds, or the whimsical Gothic Revival details of Strawberry Hill House in Twickenham. Head further north and you’ll discover Scotland’s array of mind-blowing medieval castles.

Even hidden away in small countryside villages, half-timbered cottages and charming stone bridges wait patiently for anyone looking for beauty off the beaten path.

Known as the Brighton Pavilion, the stunning former royal seaside retreat was built for the future King George IV between 1787 and 1823 by a series of architects, most notably, John Nash. Brighton is home to some of the most famous landmarks in UK history, including the famous pier, and The Lanes, a series of narrow twisting streets full of cafes, antique shops and galleries, but ultimately it’s very much the Pavilion that truly gets the snappers snapping!

A Tudor manor showcasing striking half-timbered walls and landscaped grounds, Ordsall Hall in Salford is the ideal place for a perfect pic. Step into its atmospheric interiors, then wander the lush gardens filled with colourful blooms. Snap a photo by the decorative knot garden or seek out hidden corners brimming with charm. The historic architecture and vibrant foliage provides endless Instagram opportunities. Perfect for a delightful afternoon stroll or historical nose around, Ordsall Hall exudes storybook magic at every turn.

One of the most photographed UK buildings is Whitby Abbey, a soaring, seventh century ruined Gothic monastery said to be the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. One of the most popular landmarks in the UK, the abbey is set on a headland overlooking the North Sea. If the walls could talk they’d tell stories of the medieval Northumbrian kingdom, of Viking raids, Benedictine monks, saints, poets, and history itself unfolding.

The Ross Fountain, a stunning example of opulent Victorian ironwork adorned with mermaids, cherubs, and nymphs, is in one of the UK’s most Instagrammable locations. If you get the angle right, you can capture the fountain, the historic Princes Street Gardens, and the imposing Edinburgh Castle, one of the world’s great fortresses. Three of the most photographed landmarks in the UK, all in one shot!

Lacock Abbey, nestled in the heart of Wiltshire, is a truly breathtaking blend of medieval charm and peaceful greenery. The tranquil courtyard, cloister arches, and enchanting woodland paths offer endless opportunities for stunning shots. Explore the picturesque village nearby, with its quaint streets that have graced many a film set. Every turn reveals a postcard-perfect moment.

Kirkham Priory, tucked away in the scenic Derwent Valley of North Yorkshire, offers a serene escape into medieval history. Its ruins are framed by lush countryside and the flow of the River Derwent. Wander along the evocative archways, capturing picture-perfect shots of stone pillars set against vibrant greenery. With each ancient nook telling a story, Kirkham Priory is an Instagram dream waiting to happen.

Designed by Scottish architect James Gibbs and built between 1737 and 1749, the Radcliffe Camera, Oxford’s most iconic landmark, is a testament to academic achievement in the heart of the city. This architectural masterpiece now serves as a reading room for the Bodleian Library, offering students and scholars a serene space for intellectual pursuits. With its golden stone exterior and rich history, the ‘Rad Cam’ continues to captivate visitors and inspire learning, embodying the essence of Oxford’s scholarly tradition.

The Leeds Library, nestled in the city’s bustling heart, is a literary haven brimming with Georgian charm. Its elegant spiral staircases, towering bookcases, and warm lighting create a cosy ambiance perfect for a quiet read or an Instagram capture. Explore centuries of knowledge beneath ornate ceilings, where every shelf tells a story. Tucked away from busy streets, this quiet gem offers peaceful corners and a sense of discovery, making it a book lover’s dream.

Perhaps the most recognisable of all the colleges at Cambridge University, King’s was founded in 1441 by King Henry VI and stands as a magnificent testament to medieval royal ambition and architectural brilliance. Its centerpiece is the breathtaking King’s College Chapel, an iconic Perpendicular Gothic masterpiece that dominates the Cambridge skyline. The chapel, with the world’s largest fan vault and stunning stained glass, took nearly seventy years to complete, and was built in phases by a succession of British kings between 1446 and 1515 during the tumultuous Wars of the Roses.

The architectural landscape of the UK offers an extraordinary array of Instagrammable buildings that capture the imagination of digital travellers and photography enthusiasts. From the iconic tourist spots to historic houses and hidden gems, the most photographed UK buildings are more than just physical structures, they’re visual narratives that tell stories of history, design, and cultural creativity.