New research reveals which famous sites have seen the biggest price hikes, plus expert tips for beating the costs
If you’ve noticed your favourite day out destinations getting pricier, you’re not imagining it. New research shows that ticket prices at some of Britain’s most beloved attractions have nearly doubled over the past decade – rising much faster than general inflation.
Christopher Clayton, Managing Director of StonehengeVisit.co.uk, has crunched the numbers on the UK’s top 10 paid attractions, revealing some eye-watering increases since 2015. But before you cancel your weekend plans, there’s good news too – with smart planning, families can still enjoy great British days out without breaking the bank.
The Biggest Price Jumpers
Leading the pack for price increases is the Roman Baths & Pump Room in Bath, where adult tickets have surged by 93% from £14.50 in 2015 to £28.00 today. Close behind are Stonehenge (up 88% to £27.20) and Windsor Castle (up 82% to £35.00).
To put this in context, UK inflation over the same period was approximately 51% – meaning these attractions have increased their prices at nearly double the rate of general cost increases.
“It’s a significant jump, no doubt about it,” says Clayton. “But it’s important to understand what visitors are getting for their money today compared to a decade ago.”
Why Have Prices Risen So Steeply?
According to Clayton’s analysis, several factors are driving these above-inflation increases:
Major improvements and investments: Sites like Stonehenge have undergone massive transformations. The prehistoric monument now boasts a world-class visitor centre with interactive exhibitions, while Kew Gardens has added stunning new attractions like the restored Temperate House and an innovative Children’s Garden.
Rising operational costs: Energy prices, staff wages, and specialist conservation work have all become more expensive, particularly for heritage sites requiring careful preservation.
Enhanced visitor experiences: Today’s attractions offer digital tours, improved accessibility, better facilities, and richer storytelling than ever before.
Managing visitor numbers: Some sites use pricing as a tool to control overcrowding and ensure a quality experience for those who do visit.
Not All Bad News: The Bargain Spots
While some attractions have seen steep rises, others have kept increases modest. Tower Bridge Exhibition has raised prices by just 13% over ten years – actually cheaper in real terms when adjusted for inflation. Edinburgh Castle (up 30%) and the Tower of London (up 46%) have also stayed below or close to inflation levels.
“London attractions generally show more price restraint, possibly due to higher competition and visitor volumes,” Clayton notes. “The Tower of London, despite being our most-visited paid attraction with nearly 3 million visitors annually, has kept increases relatively moderate.”
Your Money-Saving Action Plan
For families planning great days out, Clayton shares these insider tips to beat the price rises:
1. Book Online in Advance
“Never pay gate prices,” Clayton emphasizes. “Most attractions offer significant online discounts – sometimes 20% or more. Stonehenge, for example, offers better rates for advance bookings, and you’re guaranteed entry at your chosen time.”
2. Time Your Visit Strategically
Visit midweek during term time if possible. Not only will you avoid crowds, but many attractions offer off-peak pricing. Westminster Abbey and St Paul’s Cathedral both have evening sessions at reduced rates.
3. Consider Memberships
“If you’re planning three or more heritage days out this year, membership pays for itself,” says Clayton. English Heritage membership (covering Stonehenge and hundreds of other sites) costs £72 for adults or £126 for families – less than three individual Stonehenge visits.
4. Look for Combo Deals
Many attractions offer combination tickets. Windsor Castle can be paired with other Royal Collection sites, while Bath offers joint tickets for the Roman Baths and other city attractions.
5. Use Trusted Booking Partners
Platforms like StonehengeVisit.co.uk often have exclusive discounted tickets that aren’t available elsewhere, plus they handle all the booking hassle for you.
Best Value Days Out for 2025
Based on the research, here are the attractions offering the best value when inflation is considered:
Best Value: Tower Bridge Exhibition – Actually 25% cheaper in real terms than 2015 Runner-up: Edinburgh Castle – 14% cheaper when adjusted for inflation Family Favourite: ZSL London Zoo – Only slightly above inflation and packed with all-day entertainment
Worth the Splurge: Despite high prices, Windsor Castle (£35) and the Tower of London (£35.80) offer full-day experiences with multiple attractions included in the ticket price.
What’s Coming Next?
Clayton predicts we’ll see more attractions adopting airline-style dynamic pricing: “Expect to pay more during school holidays and summer weekends, but potentially find real bargains during quieter periods. It’s already happening at some sites, and it actually benefits flexible visitors.”
He also anticipates more investment in digital experiences and sustainability measures, which may drive prices up initially but should enhance value in the long run.
The Bottom Line
Yes, attraction prices have risen faster than inflation at many of Britain’s top sites. But with improved facilities, better experiences, and smart booking strategies, great British days out remain accessible for most families.
“The key is planning ahead,” Clayton concludes. “Book online, visit off-peak when possible, and consider memberships if you’re a regular visitor. These attractions are investing in their future and in visitor experience – and with the right approach, you can still enjoy them without overspending.”
Quick Reference: 2025 Ticket Prices at Top UK Attractions
London:
- Tower of London: £35.80 (book online for discounts)
- Kew Gardens: £25.00 (free for children under 4)
- Westminster Abbey: £31.00 (free with London Pass)
- St Paul’s Cathedral: £26.00 (reduced rates for online booking)
- ZSL London Zoo: £35.00 (often has family deals)
- Tower Bridge Exhibition: £16.00 (best value in London)
Outside London:
- Edinburgh Castle: £21.50 (Historic Scotland membership covers it)
- Stonehenge: £27.20 (English Heritage members free)
- Windsor Castle: £35.00 (valid for repeat visits within a year)
- Roman Baths: £28.00 (combo tickets available with other Bath attractions)
Remember: These are gate prices – always check online for better deals!
Have you found great deals on UK attractions? Share your money-saving tips with fellow day-trippers in the comments below!
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