TOURISTS from across the globe have named Durham Cathedral as the UK’s number one landmark.

The 900-year-old World Heritage Site triumphed in the inaugural Travellers’ Choice Attractions awards, organised by Trip Advisor – the world’s largest travel website.

Durham’s vast Norman shrine beat off competition from countless other attractions and destinations to clinch UK top spot following a poll bringing together millions of reviews and opinions from travellers around the world.

York Minster was third, behind Edinburgh’s Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, which offers stunning views of the Scottish capital’s skyline.

The Shambles, York’s timber-framed street, was placed tenth.

Durham Cathedral, which attracts 600,000 visitors a year, was placed 20th in the Europe-wide landmark list, with the Great Cathedral and Mosque, in Cordoba, Spain, top of the list.

The Inca settlement of Machu Picchu, in Peru, took first place in the worldwide poll.

Ruth Robson, head of marketing and events at Durham Cathedral, said: “We at the cathedral are delighted that it is hailed as the UK’s number one landmark building.

“We do follow what visitors say on Trip Advisor and appreciate comments good or bad as we strive to be a place of welcome to all who come.”

Yorkshire also enjoyed success in the UK’s top ten museums list, with York’s National Railway Museum fifth. Edinburgh’s National Museum of Scotland topped the chart.

Scarborough’s Peasholm Park came sixth in the UK’s top ten parks category, which was won by London’s St James’ Park.

There were no representatives from the North-East or North Yorkshire in the top ten water and amusement parks, won by Paultons Park, Home of Peppa Pig World, in The New Forest, Hampshire.

Angus Struthers, from Trip Advisor, said: “These awards honour the world’s best attractions as decided by those who matter most – travellers themselves.

“With schools about to break for the summer holidays in a matter of weeks, these Travellers’ Choice Attractions winners are sure to be on the to do list.”

To see the full lists, go to tripadvisor.co.uk/TravellersChoice-Attractions