These are the UK's 10 most popular stately homes

From castles and palaces to country manors, the UK has plenty of famous homes that people love to visit and photograph. But which are the most popular stately homes in Britain?

To find out Britain’s best-loved homes, comparethemarket.com analysed Instagram hashtag data to reveal which buildings were photographed the most.

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Chris King, head of home insurance at comparethemarket.com, 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

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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

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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.

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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