New research reveals that 50% of the top 20 most complained about monuments in the world are within the UK, including London’s Big Ben.
New data from iVisa reveals that London’s Big Ben is the 4th most complained about monument in the world, and the UK claims 50% of the top 20 worst landmarks.
Big Ben is not as popular as you’d think. Its TripAdvisor profile has documented 845 poor reviews and 763 terrible ones, equating to 1 in 20 of the overall responses.
This data comes after American Express reported that the number of UK adults who have planned overseas trips for 2023 has risen to 61% from 50% in 2022, suggesting a greater desire to explore destinations abroad and we’re not surprised.
Using research from Boutique Adventurer and Aquate Travel, iVisa gathered the most famous landmarks in the world. Overall scores to reveal the worst were calculated using TripAdvisor data, ranking the top percentages of bad and terrible reviews.
Complaints for each spanned from poor customer service and expensive ticket fees to long wait times and areas being simply “too touristy”.
Most complained about monument in the world: The Palace of Versailles, Versailles – 9.8%
The Palace of Versailles, a symbol of French Baroque architecture and the former royal residence of Louis XIV, known for its grandeur and opulence.
Despite its undeniable historical beauty, some have found it to be overcrowded and underwhelming with complaints such as the palace’s long wait times, poor customer service, and expensive ticket prices.
But for those who are willing to brave the crowds and overlook the drawbacks, the Palace of Versailles remains a majestic and awe-inspiring destination that transports you back in time to the height of French royalty.
As a UK landmark, these Big Ben stats could explain why the British public is looking further afield?
- Completed in 1858, renowned as one of London’s most talked-about features.
- Despite becoming synonymous with the city itself it has not escaped criticism, Trip Advisor reviewers complain about the crowds and the long lines to get inside.
- Others bemoan the fact that the clock tower has been covered in scaffolding since 2017 compromising photo opportunities.
Here’s how other UK monuments faired:
Most complained about UK monument: Blackpool Tower – Blackpool – 9.4%
The Blackpool Tower, a true icon of the British seaside stands 518 feet tall and has offered fun-filled days for families since 1894. But despite its rich nostalgia, it’s fallen victim to negative reviewers.
According to some commenters, the Tower is a bit too “touristy” for their liking due to the hordes of visitors and cheesy attractions.
- Stonehenge – Wiltshire – 8.1%:
- The mysterious prehistoric stone circle, Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England ranks as 3rd most complained about monument in the world.
- Dating back 3000 BC, it’s been the subject of endless debate and speculation for years.
- Despite its allure, people can’t appreciate it for what it is. Complaints range from the lack of information available at the site to the fact that you can’t actually “get up close and personal” with the stones themselves.
- Angel of the North – Gateshead – 4.7%:
- Next is the Angel of the North, located near Gateshead, England. Designed by Antony Gormley, and installed in 1998, this modern masterpiece has become an iconic symbol of the North of England.
- Despite its stunning appearance, complaints criticize the Angel of the North for being nothing more than a “giant metal stick” in a “grimy industrial area”.
- York Minster – York – 4.4%:
- The 7th most complained about monument is York Minster, the grand Gothic cathedral in the centre of York, England.
- This medieval structure is one of the largest of its kind in Northern Europe.
- However, this awe-inspiring monument has its share of haters, visitors have found drawbacks to this otherwise remarkable site from the high entrance fee to its tendency to become packed with tourists.
- The Giant’s Causeway – County Antrim – 3.8%:
- Number 8 is The Giant’s Causeway, a natural wonder and geological masterpiece that looks like it was crafted by giants in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.
- Inspiring myths and legends for centuries, Its hexagonal basalt columns are a marvel of nature and a testament to the power of volcanic activity.
- However, for reviewers, the only thing more giant than the columns are the crowds, complaining that the place is more packed than a leprechaun’s pot of gold, and “not worth the hassle” and the crowds make it difficult to get good photos or appreciate the full beauty of the site.
Ultimately, whether you love them or loathe them, the most controversial landmarks in the world will always be a source of fascination and debate for travellers around the globe.
However, regardless if you are travelling from far or near to visit Big Ben, it’s probably best to do some research beforehand to manage expectations and avoid disappointment. Visit www.iVisa.com for more information on where to go this summer and find the answers to all your visa needs!
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Featured Photo by Jurica Koletić on Unsplash
