Chester has been voted the most welcoming place in the UK

Chester has been voted the most welcoming place in the UK in a recent survey based on traveller reviews.

The rankings were drawn up by travel website, Booking.com, with entries identified based on the number of Traveller Review Awards each has.

The most welcoming place on Earth for 2025 was Sigiriya in Sri Lanka, with Chester topping the ranking for the UK and coming tenth globally.

Sigiriya is a 180m (590ft) high ancient rock fortress in Sri Lanka’s Matale District.

Eastgate Clock - Chester. Credit: Cheshire West and Chester Council — Eastgate Clock. Credit: Cheshire West and Chester Council

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Leader, Councillor Louise Gittins said:

“I’m thrilled that our beautiful, historic city has now also been recognised for its warm welcome to visitors.

“In the survey Chester is described as a ‘historic gem offering a captivating blend of Roman, medieval, and Tudor architecture, all nestled within well-preserved City Walls.’

“The survey also states that the City is known for its ‘friendly locals and vibrant community spirit’, and that Chester ‘exudes a warm, inviting charm that leaves visitors feeling truly at home’.”

Completing the rest of the eight-strong UK ranking are Newry, County Down (second); Enniskillen, County Fermanagh (third); Portstewart, County Londonderry (fourth); Woolacombe, Devon (fifth); Haworth, West Yorkshire (sixth); Newcastle, County Down (seventh); and Cheddar, Somerset (eighth).