Ranging from ancient monuments to immersive experiences and museums, a new list reveals which UK attractions leave visitors feeling most disappointed.
Thousands of TripAdvisor reviews have been analysed in order to create a “Money Trap Index” – a ranked list of the biggest money traps for tourists across the UK.
Included in the index, created by CasinoBonusCA, is the percentage of 1 or 2-star reviews, and the number of mentions of words and phrases like “overpriced’ or “tourist trap”.
Below, the Express has compiled a list of the top five biggest “tourist traps” according to the study.
The London Dungeon:
Taking top spot on the list was The London Dungeon, with an overall score of 89.9. An immersive experience labelled as not for the faint of heart, The London Dungeon takes you on a trip through the darkest parts of the capital’s past.
However, a staggering 14.3% of all reviews were 1 or 2 stars, and there were more than 200 trap-related mentions. Although visitors praised the acting of the staff and the sets and props which were “top-notch,” it is also mentioned as being “overpriced” and “boring.”
Stonehenge:
In second place was Stonehenge, located in Wiltshire. Despite its global fame and it being noted by reviewers as being “an incredible experience,” it racked up over 300 complaints labelling it a rip-off due to the fact you can’t get up close to the stones.
One tip from a reviewer in order to get round this was to “visit during the solstices, it’s the only time you can actually approach the stones up close.”
The Royal Mile:
Third on the list was the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Although described as being “stunningly beautiful and packed with history,” and being one of the country’s most iconic streets, it received the highest number of “tourist trap” comments in the entire study, which was 551 mentions. One review said that it “does not portray culture authentically.”
To gain a more fulfilling experience, a TripAdvisor tip is to head towards the Parliament building, where it is less busy.
Madame Tussaud’s (London):
Next was Madame Tussaud’s in the capital, with more than 4,000 low-rated reviews and complaints about crowds and high prices. Although some reviewers praised the experience, with one describing it as both “entertaining and captivating”, many criticised it, with one going as far as to say “it’s purely a money-making machine,” where “customers are treated like pieces of meat on a conveyor belt.”
It is advised to book online to avoid the hefty lines that form trying to buy tickets on the day.
The London Eye:
In fifth place was the London Eye. It is iconographical of London, and one review said that “it is hands-down one of the coolest ways to see the city from up high.” Despite this, it is described by many as overpriced and not worth the money, with one reviewer saying that it is “a total ripoff.”
Other entries on the list include London’s Coven Garden and Buckingham Palace, along with The Roman Baths.