Abbey Road in London, the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland, and Princes Street in Edinburgh are popular UK tourist attractions due to their associations with iconic elements of popular culture. The zebra crossing outside Abbey Road Studios is iconic for being featured on The Beatles’ 1969 album cover. Similarly, the unique basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway are recognizable to fans of Led Zeppelin’s 1973 album, Houses of the Holy. Movie enthusiasts strolling along Portobello Road in London can identify locations from the Paddington movies and the famous Will’s bookshop from Notting Hill. Another notable spot is Princes Street in Edinburgh, where a pivotal scene from the 1996 film Trainspotting was filmed.
A recent survey revealed that more than half of adults have visited a location in the UK solely because of its connection to their favorite TV show, movie, music, literature, or art. Cultural expert Dr. Ruth Adams, in collaboration with Premier Inn, highlighted additional cultural destinations worth exploring, such as Oxford’s “Narnia Door” and the village of Portmeirion in Wales, known for the 1960s TV show, The Prisoner. Dr. Adams emphasized the significance of visiting these locations, stating that they serve as modern pilgrimages for fans seeking proximity to their idols and fantasies.
Film enthusiasts have also been drawn to Wells in Somerset, the setting for the acclaimed comedy Hot Fuzz. However, visitors may sometimes find that these places do not always match their on-screen depictions. The study revealed that a considerable number of people have traveled long distances, up to 250 miles, to visit these pop-culture landmarks. For many, visiting these famous locations is akin to a pilgrimage, fulfilling a deep-seated desire to experience the cultural significance firsthand.
Simon Ewins, managing director of Premier Inn, noted the increasing popularity of modern-day pilgrimages to famous pop culture sites, encouraging visitors to explore the hidden gems across the UK. The interactive map created by Premier Inn aims to help enthusiasts plan trips to their favorite cultural spots and make the most of the diverse offerings in the UK. The study also found that a majority of visitors seek to witness famous locations in real life and capture memorable photos, with some even recreating scenes from TV shows and movies during their visits. Additionally, a notable percentage of individuals have named pets or even children after beloved characters from media or cultural works.
