These are the most beautiful UK locations your Instagram friends are going to

Another picturesque image of a seashore, white cliffs or a majestic castle graces your Instagram feed.

You wonder what gorgeous exotic town your friend has travelled to.

And then there’s that pang of shock when you realise it’s in the UK.

Staycations really are all the rage right now.

Let’s face it, organising a trip abroad can be a headache at the best of times. But a quick getaway a few hours from your house might be exactly the kind of detox you need from everyday mundanesness.

They’re also significantly easier to prepare.

And because we live in times of uber helpful technology, Instagram data has been used to narrow down all the best locations your mates are going to and that you should also be checking out on your next weekend.

Gathering data from hashtags and geotagged locations on the app, Magi Metrics has found the most popular UK beauty spots outside of London.

1) Cleethorpes Beach, Lincolnshire, England

If you thought you knew which location users would find the most engaging, then think again.

Cleethorpes Beach gets the most plaudits and comes top of the list.

With stunning views along the promenade, it’s a quintessentially British location that Instagram users simply seem to love and post about.

2) Edinburgh Castle in Scotland

Maybe a little less surprising is number two; Edinburgh Castle in Scotland.

The castle is clearly Insta worthy as it’s snapped from all kinds of angles throughout the year.

From its vantage point above the city, you can take time out to view the Scottish crown jewels and the legendary Stone of Destiny.

3) The Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim, Northern Ireland

One of the most famous landmarks in the world, the causeway gives visitors a glimpse into ancient history and is widely photographed and posted about on social media.

4) Durdle Door, Dorset, England

Durdle Door might not be very well known in name but you’re sure to recognise the stone arch just off the bay.

The beach is perfect for a summer picnic with the stunning views of the arch and the white cliffs in the distance.

5) Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland

Scotland is clearly a popular destination, making two appearances in the top five.

Eilean Donan Castle is the fifth most Instagrammed place in the UK.

You’ve probably seen it in plenty of adverts over the years; this iconic castle lies at the junction of three impressive lochs in the wilds of Scotland.

Whether it’s just the stunning scenery or the rich history, it’s no wonder this is one of the most visited locations in the UK.

6) Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh, Scotland

Arthur’s Seat is Holyrood Park’s highest point; it’s an ancient volcano that sits 251m above sea level giving excellent views of the city.

7) Stonehenge, Scotland

Unsurprisingly, Stonehenge, being one of the wonders of the world, is also on the top ten. If you haven’t already, you can walk in the footsteps of your Neolithic ancestors at one of the best-known prehistoric monuments in Europe.

Stonehenge, Salisbury Plain, Wiltshire, England — (Picture: Getty)

8) Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire, England

Blenheim Palace is one of the most stunning locations in the county, especially during Christmas when a light festival is displayed. Birthplace of Winston Churchill and home to the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough, it is also a World Heritage Site.

England, Oxfordshire, Woodstock, Blenheim Palace. Fountain garden and visitors in upper water terrace. — (Picture: Getty)

9) Snowden, Wales

Instagrammers are also trekking to Snowden for fun and thrills. There’s certainly plenty to enjoy, from waterfalls, lakes, and world-class mountain biking to a vintage steam railway that climbs the highest peak in Wales.