Summer adventures mapped: discover 62 UNESCO places across the UK

From neolithic landscapes and pioneering industrial sites to vibrant creative cities and extraordinary natural environments, visitors can discover 62 UNESCO-designated places across the UK this summer with an updated illustrated map published by the UK National Commission for UNESCO. 

Available to download for free, the map draws together the UK’s World Heritage Sites, Creative Cities, Global Geoparks and Biosphere Reserves, all to one space. Up-to-the-minute and inspiring, the map offers insight for interesting days out, longer holiday staycations and new discoveries during the summer holidays. 

The UK is home to 14 Creative Cities, 10 Global Geoparks, 7 Biosphere Reserves and 31 World Heritage Sites – including Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites which celebrates 40 Years as a World Heritage Site this year. Together, these 62 places form a national network spanning internationally important heritage, creativity, science, landscapes and communities. 

Many are free to visit and accessible by public transport. Whether looking for adventure, culture, nature or a relaxed family day out, the map makes it easier to discover some of the world’s most remarkable places – often much closer to home than people might expect.

To explore the South West’s UNESCO sites by public transport, view a new Rail & Bus Trail produced in partnership with Great Western Railway including a two-day Stonehenge and Avebury itinerary.

 Anna Nsubuga, UK Ambassador and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, said: 

“Across the UK, UNESCO designations bring our international commitment to education, culture, science and sustainable development to life. They include places of extraordinary beauty, creativity and historic importance, but they are also living communities- using international collaboration and local knowledge to protect heritage, support learning and create a more sustainable future. 

“I have had the privilege of visiting UNESCO places across the UK and seeing first-hand the ambition, expertise and dedication of the people who care for them. I hope this map encourages people to discover the remarkable UNESCO places on their doorstep, as well as those further afield, and to experience everything they have to offer.” 

James Bridge, Chief Executive and Secretary-General of the UK National Commission for UNESCO, said: 

“The updated UNESCO in the UK map shows at a glance the extraordinary breadth of our national network-from globally significant landscapes and historic places to centres of scientific discovery and creative innovation. 

“These are not simply places recognised for what they preserve. They are active partnerships using culture, heritage, science and creativity to benefit their communities and respond to some of the defining challenges of our time. We hope the map inspires people to explore familiar places with fresh eyes and to discover somewhere completely new this summer.” 

Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said:  

“UNESCO recognises and protects some of the UK’s most significant and treasured heritage. This beautifully illustrated map showcases the extraordinary breadth of these places, from Cornwall’s historic mining landscapes and the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland to the dramatic North West Highlands of Scotland. Thanks to National Lottery players, we are proud to help people connect with the heritage, culture and landscapes that make these places so special. We hope the map inspires visitors of all ages to discover somewhere new, support local communities and enjoy the UK’s remarkable heritage this summer.” 

The original map was produced by the UK National Commission for UNESCO through its Local to Global programme, with support from the GREAT Campaign and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players. It has now been updated to reflect the growth of the UK’s UNESCO network. Designed by Birmingham-based creative cartographer Tom Woolley, the map spotlights the remarkable sites across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland that have received international recognition from UNESCO.