Edinburgh crowned UK's friendliest city in travel poll

Summarised from 2 outlets · 4 reports · Updated 9 Oct, 12:44 · Archive

Edinburgh has been named the UK's friendliest city in Condé Nast Traveller's 2026 Readers' Choice Awards, unseating Glasgow which had held the top spot for two consecutive years. The capital scored 93.47 out of 100 and was previously ranked third. Edinburgh had previously been named one of the UK's five 'brainiest' cities in another study.

Condé Nast Traveller described Edinburgh as 'good-humoured, open-minded, and pulsing with creative energy', noting that 'widespread patriotism means that all are eager to provide superb standards of hospitality'. The publication highlighted attractions including the Fringe festival and the city's cobbled streets where 'residents and visitors unite to celebrate remarkably experimental performers'.

Glasgow's drop from first to fourth place has provoked friendly rivalry among its residents. Some Glaswegians have objected to the results on social media, with comments such as 'Glasgow is' and references to the city's appeal despite 'big city problems'. However, numerous visitor reviews have praised Edinburgh for its warm and welcoming nature.

How it is being reported

• Edinburgh beats out Scottish rival to be crowned UK's friendliest cityEdinburgh has been named the UK's friendliest city for 2026, dethroning Glasgow, which had held the top spot for the past two years before dropping to fourth placeEdinburgh Live · 9 Oct, 12:20
• Hooded thugs threaten city’s good name - Miles BriggsEdinburgh has always enjoyed the claim of being one of the UK’s safer cities. Our reputation of note-0a generally civilised atmosphere makes it attractive for visitors and residents alike.Edinburgh Evening News · 9 Oct, 09:41
• Edinburgh named friendliest UK city as Glasgow loses crown in new travel pollEdinburgh has taken the top spot for friendliness in Condé Nast Traveller's 2026 Readers’ Choice AwardsEdinburgh Evening News · 7 Oct, 17:01
• Edinburgh named one of the UK’s five ‘brainiest’ cities, study findsEdinburgh has been named one of the UK’s five ‘brainiest’ cities, according to a new study.Edinburgh Evening News · 7 Oct, 13:01

In this story: Edinburgh · Glasgow · Condé Nast Traveller

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem