IT'S official! Salisbury has been voted the UK's seventh favourite city.

Coming seven places higher than last year, the city has topped its south-west rival, Bath, in the Observer and Guardian readers' travel awards.

Salisbury was the highest-placed city in southern England, with only Newcastle, York and Durham rated higher in England.

Salisbury district council tourism manager Mary Pocock said: "This is a wonderful achievement for Salisbury, especially considering we do not have the same kind of high profile as many other cities that featured in the top 20.

"I think in many ways Salisbury is still an undiscovered gem.

"Many people come here not knowing what to expect and are very pleasantly surprised when they get here."

More than 22,000 people voted in the travel awards and were asked to rate the quality of service they received in different areas of tourism.

They were also asked to vote for their favourite international destination, airline, tour operator and hotel.

Council deputy portfolio holder for planning and economic development Margaret Peach said: "I'm not at all surprised that Salisbury has come out so highly in this poll of favourite UK cities.

"We have a city steeped in history and heritage, surrounded by five beautiful rivers and countryside and, of course, Salisbury Cathedral.

"Salisbury has an excellent range of shops, restaurants, hotels and bed and breakfasts, offering visitors the perfect city break.

"Those of us who live in the district are very privileged indeed."

The top 10 were: 1, Edinburgh; 2, Glasgow; 3, Newcastle; 4, York; 5, Belfast; 6, Durham; 7, Salisbury; 8, Bath; 9, Lincoln; 10, Chester.