Two Scottish regions named on list of UK's best historical hotspots to visit

TWO regions in Scotland have been named among the top historical hotspots to visit in the UK.

Ayrshire and the Scottish Highlands were featured alongside places across the country, including Yorkshire and Cornwall.

All the places named were assessed and ranked based on the number of ancient ruins, castles, monuments and statues located within them.

When it comes to castles, Ayrshire was said to "reign supreme" with the greatest number being found here.

Ayrshire was named the castle capital of the UK (Image: PA) With 42 castles to choose from, the Scottish region is said to be a "history and culture lover's dream".

The researchers over at Park Holidays UK said: "Whether you’re there to study the historical significance of the building or to act out your own fairytale dreams, there’s something for everyone."

The Scottish Highlands was also praised as a hotspot for ancient ruins with 27 being located here.

Highlighting places to visit, the researchers recommended Clava Cairns and the Carrimony Chambered Cairn where there are "so many opportunities for you to explore the area's history."

See the top historical hotspots to visit in the UK

These are the top historical hotspots to visit in the UK, including Ayrshire and the Scottish Highlands.

The overall scores are out of 10.

1. Yorkshire - 10.0 
2. Ayrshire - 6.1 
3. Kent - 6.1 
4. Devon - 4.2 
5. Northumberland - 3.9 
6. Cornwall - 3.2 
7. Sussex - 3.0 
8. Lancashire - 2.3 
9. Scottish Highlands - 2.1 
10. Cumbria - 2.1 

The Scottish Highlands was praised for its many historical sites (Image: Getty Images)

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The best places for castles in the UK

Here are some of the best places in the UK for those who love seeing castles.  

1. Ayrshire - 42 
2. Yorkshire - 26 
3. Scottish Highlands - 21 
4. Cumbria - 18 
5. Kent - 16 
6. Devon - 15 
7. Sussex - 15 
8. Cornwall - 15
9. Moray - 12 
10. Northumberland - 12

The best places for ancient ruins in the UK

Here are some of the best places in the UK for those who love exploring ancient ruins.​

1. Scottish Highlands - 27 
2. Ayrshire - 23 
3. Northumberland - 23 
4. Cornwall - 21 
5. Yorkshire - 18 
6. Devon - 15 
7. Kent - 12 
8. Cumbria - 11 
9. Sussex - 10 
10. Essex - 8 

The Highlands and Ayrshire were the only Scottish regions named.