YORK Minster is one of the top 20 UK destinations people have never visited - but desperately want to, according to research.

The historic cathedral features in a list of destinations people still want to see following research commissioned by York-based London North Eastern Railway (LNER).

Loch Ness is the top UK destination in the 'bucket list' tourist attractions, followed by the Scottish Highlands and the environmentally focused Eden Project in Cornwall.

The iconic White Cliffs of Dover in Kent, the picturesque Scottish Coastline and London’s Kew Gardens, were also popular ‘wish list’ destinations.

York Press: York MinsterYork Minster

The Minster features at number 19 in the list.

The poll, of 2,000 Brits, revealed 11 per cent are stuck in a holiday rut, as 60 per cent like familiarity, but a 18 per cent are unsure of where to go.

And 13 per cent are ‘afraid to risk trying somewhere new’.

As a result, nearly a third (31 per cent) of Southerners have never been to Scotland, with 29 per cent of Northern residents never venturing as far south as Devon or Cornwall.

York Press: Loch Ness topped the listLoch Ness topped the list

The research was commissioned by LNER which has teamed up with Visit Kent, Southeastern, St. Pancras International and the King’s Cross Neighbourhood, to launch an extended fourth version of its popular LNER Green Guide series.

The latest version of the guide features environmentally friendly traveller tips for people looking to discover the best of the south and east Coasts of England and Scotland with the guide focusing on Leeds, Aberdeen, Canterbury, Folkestone, and the King’s Cross St. Pancras area - all ‘underdiscovered’ gems.

York Press: Durdle Door on the Jurassic Coast. Picture: SWNSDurdle Door on the Jurassic Coast. Picture: SWNS

David Horne, managing director for LNER, said: “In spite of the fact that three quarters of us want a staycation this year and millions of us want to do that as part of a wider sustainability commitment, it’s clear that we just don’t know where to start.

“We’re visiting destinations on repeat, yet there are so many gems just waiting to be explored.”

The research, conducted via OnePoll, also found 21 per cent have simply passed through England’s capital, without taking the time to enjoy the rich nature, culture and gastro opportunities London has to offer.

York Press: StonehengeStonehenge

Mr Horne added: “This autumn, we’re delighted to partner with other leading travel and tourism partners - to bring green travel inspiration to millions dreaming of staycations.

“We’re lucky to live in a country with vibrant, diverse, and beautiful locations all within easy reach by the most sustainable form of transport.

“Whether you’re looking to explore sweeping scenery, historic landmarks or cities buzzing with life, the possibilities are endless.”

TOP 20 UK DESTINATIONS ON PEOPLE'S WISH LISTS:

1. Loch Ness, Drumnadrochit

2. The Scottish Highlands

3. Eden Project, Cornwall

4. Lake District, Cumbria

5. Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh

6. Roman Baths, Bath

7. Jurassic Coast, Dorset

8. Stonehenge, Salisbury

9. Ben Nevis, Fort William

10. Land’s End, Cornwall

11. Scottish Coastline

12. Hadrian’s Wall, Cumbria

13. Kew Gardens, London

14. Windsor Castle, Berkshire

15. Mount Snowdon, Gwynedd

16. Buckingham Palace, London

17. The Needles, Isle of Wight

18. The Peak District, Derbyshire

19. York Minster, York

20. White Cliffs of Dover, Kent