To find out Britain’s best-loved homes, comparethemarket.com (opens in new tab) analysed Instagram hashtag data to reveal which buildings were photographed the most. See:These are the most popular interior design trends in the UK (opens in new tab) Chris King, head of home insurance at comparethemarket.com (opens in new tab), commented: ‘Great Britain is home to some of the world’s most stunning stately homes and castles, and a visit to one of these beautiful, historic homes makes for a great day out. ‘With lockdown easing here in the UK and guidelines on travelling abroad changing regularly, more people are opting for days out and ‘staycations’. Walking around the grounds of a stately manor is a great way to get outside and explore somewhere new, all while being able to distance yourself from big crowds. Just remember to check whether you need to book before you turn up, so you aren’t disappointed. ‘There’s so much history to delve into when visiting a castle or stately home, with centuries of royal figures having lived in these buildings. Our research shows that people are appreciating the beauty of these homes, as well as the stories behind them, with thousands of people taking to Instagram to share their best pictures from their visits.’

  1. BUCKINGHAM PALACE As the official London residence of the Queen, the palace is possibly the most famous home in the UK, attracting millions of visitors every year. Built: 1703.
  2. TOWER OF LONDON Famous for hosting notable prisoners such as Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth I, Guy Fawkes, the Princes in the Tower, and even the Kray twins. Built: 1078
  3. KENSINGTON PALACE As a royal residence, the palace has been home to many well-known royals, including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, William and Kate, who live there currently. Built: 1605 See: The most popular interiors on Homes & Gardens Instagram (opens in new tab)
  4. WINDSOR CASTLE The castle served as a refuge for the royal family during WWII when much of London was targeted in bombing campaigns. Today, it is often used by Elizabeth II as a weekend home. Built: 1070
  5. HAMPTON COURT PALACE First serving as a home for Henry VIII, it is now known for its gardens and grounds, which feature a maze as well as being home to the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. Built: 1515
  6. BLENHEIM PALACE This palace in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, is best known for being the birthplace and home of former Prime Minister, Winston Churchill. Built: 1705 See:The 10 best National Trust gardens for a picture-perfect day trip (opens in new tab)
  7. WARWICK CASTLE Originally built as a wooden fort by William the Conqueror, the castle was rebuilt in stone during the 12th century. Built: 1068
  8. CHATSWORTH HOUSE The stately home in Bakewell, Derbyshire, has featured in a number of films and TV shows, including Pride & Prejudice, The Crown, and Peaky Blinders. Built: 1687
  9. ST MICHAEL’S MOUNT The castle sits on a tidal island off the coast of Cornwall called Mount’s Bay, which is cut off from the mainland during high tide. Built: 12th century. See:This is the UK’s most Instagrammed National Trust house (opens in new tab)
  10. LEEDS CASTLE The castle served as a home for Catherine of Aragon, before acting as a prison and an arsenal during the English Civil War. Built: 1119