The United Kingdom (UK) has clinched three spots in Time magazine’s prestigious list of the World’s Greatest Places of 2024.
The announcement highlights the nation’s cultural, historical, and innovative attractions, celebrating them globally.
Raffles London at the OWO in England and 100 Princess Street in Edinburgh, Scotland, are two UK entries in Time’s list of the best places to stay.
Additionally, Time magazine recognized Aviva Studios, home of Factory International in Manchester, England, as one of the best places to visit this year.
Selecting Time’s 2024 World’s Greatest Places
Time magazine’s World’s Greatest Places list is a coveted recognition, with each destination carefully selected based on several criteria.
The media outlet compiled the list through nominations from its international network of correspondents and contributors.
These include hotels, cruises, restaurants, attractions, museums, parks, and more. Places can also be nominated through an application process.
The nominations are then evaluated based on quality, originality, sustainability, and influence.
Last year’s list featured 50 cities, but the list expanded to 100 extraordinary destinations in 2024.
This is due to the exploration of even more and more specific establishments that stand out in their field and the world.
World’s Greatest Places in the UK
This year, the three UK locations that made the list are Raffles London at the OWO, Aviva Studios at Factory International in Manchester, and 100 Princes Street in Edinburgh.
Each place offers something unique and exceptional, making them worthy of the spotlight.
Raffles London at the OWO
Raffles London at the OWO is a luxurious hotel set in the historic Old War Office building in Whitehall.
This landmark, pivotal in British history, has been meticulously restored and transformed into a world-class destination.
It combines the grandeur of its historical architecture with modern luxury.
The hotel’s opulent interiors, exceptional service, and unique historical significance make it a must-visit.
Time notes that “the transformation of the Old War Office into Raffles London is a remarkable blend of history and luxury, offering guests an unparalleled experience.”
Visitors can explore the building’s rich history, which has witnessed key moments in British history. At the same time, they can enjoy the modern comforts and amenities Raffles is known for.
This fusion of past and present creates a truly unique experience for travelers.
Aviva Studios at Factory International
According to Time Out, Aviva Studios is the UK’s most significant cultural project since the Tate Modern.
This cutting-edge cultural venue is set to become a major hub for the arts, hosting a wide range of performances, exhibitions, and events.
Aviva Studios is part of the larger Factory International project, which aims to position Manchester as a leading destination for culture and creativity.
“Aviva Studios is not just a venue; it’s a statement of Manchester’s commitment to the arts and innovation,” says Time.
The space is flexible and adaptable, capable of hosting everything from large-scale performances to intimate exhibitions.
The inclusion of Aviva Studios highlights the growing importance of cultural venues in urban development and the role they play in enriching communities.
With its state-of-the-art facilities and ambitious programming, Aviva Studios can become a key player in the global arts scene.
100 Princes Street in Edinburgh
A boutique hotel on a famous street, 100 Princes Street offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle and a luxurious, intimate atmosphere.
Time highlighted 100 Princes Street’s attention to detail and personalized service.
The hotel’s design pays homage to Edinburgh’s rich heritage while incorporating contemporary elements to ensure a comfortable stay.
“100 Princes Street combines the charm of Edinburgh’s history with modern luxury, providing guests with an unforgettable experience,” highlights Time.
The boutique hotel’s prime location offers easy access to many of Edinburgh’s top attractions.
This includes the Royal Mile, the National Museum of Scotland, and the vibrant shopping and dining scene along Princes Street.
The hotel’s commitment to excellence and its unique setting make it a standout destination in Scotland’s capital.
Celebrating the UK as one of the World’s Greatest Places
The inclusion of these three destinations in Time’s World’s Greatest Places of 2024 is a testament to the UK’s diverse offerings.
It also shows the country’s ability to blend tradition with innovation.
From the historical grandeur of Raffles London at the OWO to the cutting-edge creativity of Aviva Studios and the luxurious charm of 100 Princes Street, each place presents the best of what the UK has to offer.
These recognitions emphasize the importance of preserving cultural and historical landmarks while adapting to modern needs.
A history buff, an art lover, or someone seeking a luxurious escape, these UK destinations promise an unforgettable experience.
As travel evolves, the UK’s unique and enriching experiences make it a top choice for global travelers.
The recognition by Time also serves as motivation for the UK to continue nurturing its rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Entry requirements when visiting the UK
For those planning to visit these remarkable destinations, knowing the UK’s entry requirements is important.
Travelers from many countries with visa waiver deals with the UK must obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before their trip.
The ETA is a digital authorization for non-visa travelers, allowing short-term tourism, business, or family visits.
It costs £10 per application and is valid for multiple short trips to the UK over two years.
Currently, visitors from Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) need an ETA to travel to the UK.
The UK intends to roll out its new UK ETA scheme for all visa-exempt travelers later in 2024.
Other visitors might need to apply for the UK ETA-equivalent Standard Visitor visa, which is also valid for short trips to the UK for up to six months.
Applying for a UK visa involves a more complex process than the UK ETA’s online application system. It also costs more and takes more time.
Travelers must check the latest entry requirements and apply for the necessary travel documents in advance.