Stonehenge is voted Britain’s best historic site » Environment » 24dash.com

Tourism providers in south Wiltshire are delighted that Stonehenge, near Salisbury, has come top in a nationwide poll for Britain’s best historic sites.

The result of the major TV and website survey by the UKTV History channel has been welcomed by Salisbury & Stonehenge Tourism Partnership chair Mary Webb: “This is confirmation that Stonehenge is Britain’s favourite visitor destination.

"The stones have fascinated people for thousands of years, and continual archaeological discoveries in the landscape around the site make the megalith as captivating and intriguing as ever.

“Having Britain’s favourite historic attraction in the area will boost tourism to Salisbury and south Wiltshire – welcome news for members of our Salisbury & Stonehenge Tourism Partnership.”

The final result was revealed by Alan Titchmarsh in a special programme. Stonehenge came in ahead of places such as HMS Victory, Liverpool Cathedral, Hadrian’s Wall and York Minster in the rankings compiled by the Britain’s Best television show on UKTV.

Over 600,000 votes were received via the web, red button, post, phone and SMS over the past six months, and Stonehenge received 15% of the overall votes - making it undoubtedly Britain's Best.

English Heritage, who manage Stonehenge, has thanked viewers for voting in the poll. They believe that the summer features and poll has encouraged the public to visit and appreciate the wonderful array of heritage sites that Britain has to offer.

It is hoped that the survey results will further strengthen the case to improve visitor facilities at the World Heritage site located on Salisbury Plain.

Salisbury & Stonehenge Tourism plan to use the news to highlight the unique heritage of the area and encourage visitors to Stonehenge to discover the other nearby attractions and book short breaks in Salisbury and the surrounding countryside.

A nationwide campaign will promote the www.visitsalisbury.com website.

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