LNER Announces the UK's Friendliest Cities for 2024

LNER's latest study highlights the UK's top 5 friendliest destinations, with Blackpool leading and York, Newcastle, and Edinburgh also making the list, based on well-being and hospitality ratings.

LNER has unveiled the results of a new study pinpointing the UK's friendliest destinations for 2024, spotlighting cities known not just for their attractions but also for their exceptionally warm welcomes. Among the frontrunners are York, Newcastle, and Edinburgh, which have been recognized for their hospitality, contributing to their appeal as top travel destinations.

The study, leveraging data from the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS) on residents' personal well-being and TripAdvisor customer reviews of hotels and restaurants, assigns a comprehensive score out of 100 to each city. This unique approach ensures that the rankings reflect not only the quality of services but also the overall happiness and satisfaction of the local population.

Blackpool emerges as the UK's friendliest destination, boasting a score of 79.9 out of 100. This accolade is attributed to its leading number of five-star rated hotels and restaurants per capita and the high well-being scores of its residents. Such findings underscore the significant impact of local community happiness on tourism and hospitality.

York claims the third spot with a score of 71.4, celebrated for its rich history and welcoming locals, followed by Newcastle upon Tyne with a score of 70.4, known for its vibrant atmosphere and friendly residents. Edinburgh, with a score of 69.5, ranks fifth, praised for its cultural depth and the affability of its people.

Claire Ansley, Customer Experience Director at LNER, emphasized the importance of local hospitality in choosing a travel destination. "Visiting places where locals are welcoming can greatly enhance your travel experience, from enjoying conversations in a pub to experiencing kindness from strangers," she remarked.

These findings aim to guide travelers seeking destinations where they can feel genuinely welcomed and immersed in the local culture. LNER's research into the UK's friendliest cities encourages tourists to consider not only the physical attractions of their destinations but also the warmth and hospitality of the local population.

Whether planning a solo trip or a family holiday, these top-ranked cities promise an exceptionally warm welcome, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable travel experience.
You can find the full research here: https://www.lner.co.uk/our-destinations/travel-inspiration/friendliest-cities-in-the-uk/