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Scotland’s 15 best places to live from buzzy neighbourhoods to seaside villages

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5 months ago

June 27, 2024

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Scotland’s 15 best places to live from buzzy neighbourhoods to seaside villages

The Daily Record has put together a list of the 15 best places in Scotland to live for 2024.

Choosing where to settle down can be an overwhelming decision. Scotland having so many amazing cities, towns, and villages to choose from certainly doesn’t help narrow down the options either.

Whether you want to be near the hustle and bustle, or far removed from the noise of modern living, there are simply too many destinations. That is why we have narrowed down all of the amazing places in Scotland to a list of just 15 of the very best — in our opinion.

From buzzy city neighbourhoods to quiet seaside villages, there is bound to be at least one spot here that has you contemplating a move. Even if you aren’t looking to relocate, they are all amazing places to head for a day trip too.

In no particular order, read on for the Daily Record’s top 15 places to live in Scotland for 2024.

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First up, we have the peaceful little spot of Anstruther along the north shore of the Firth of Forth. This charming fishing town features stunning views out over the firth, as well as a wealth of things to check out that include the likes of a fishing museum and a Cold War bunker that has been converted into a tourist attraction. It is also home to the Anstruther Fish Bar, which has previously been crowned one of the best fish and chip shops in Scotland. That alone is surely enough of a reason to move.

(Image: StephenBridger / Getty Images)

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Moving into the heart of the Scottish Borders, we find the idyllic town of Peebles. Nestled along the banks of the River Tweed, Peebles is popular amongst both locals and tourists for its contemporary and traditional art galleries, Eastgate Theatre, and abundance of delectable cafés and takeaways — as well as its easy access to Edinburgh. If you are a keen mountain biker, then having the iconic Glentress venue on your doorstep certainly helps too.

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From the variety of lovely shops, cafés, and bakeries dotting its town centre to the unique ‘Jougs’ building at its heart and the historic Rowallan Castle, Kilmaurs is a true hidden gem of East Ayrshire. What really sets the town apart, though, is actually one of its pubs. The Weston is perfect place to head whether you are craving a refreshing drink or a steak pie, and was even recognised as the top pub in Scotland at the esteemed Scottish Entertainment and Hospitality Awards earlier this year.

(Image: jimmcdowall / Getty Images)

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Everyone has their own list of priorities when deciding where to settle down, and if good food is high on yours then you should definitely consider Torridon in the Northwest Highlands. Surrounded by the jaw-dropping Torridon Hills that dominate the landscape, this quiet little village has a surprising amount of tasty food spots. Highlights of the area include the Bo & Muc Brasserie and the charming Wee Whistle Stop Cafe.

(Image: Dennis Barnes / Getty Images)

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Nestled along the North Sea coast in East Lothian, Dunbar is a favourite amongst both residents and travellers for its incredible beach, treasure trove of shops to get lost in, and weather that seems sunnier than anywhere else in the country. It is also famous for being the birthplace of John Muir, with a statue dedicated to the beloved naturalist (pictured) in its centre and the John Muir Country Park. The latter is the perfect spot to head if you’re keen for a scenic walk or spotting some wildlife. Dunbar also has some amazing restaurants and cafés to offer, such as the mouthwatering seafood spot The Creel.

(Image: Richard Baker / In Pictures via Getty Images Images)

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Scotland’s own ‘Riviera of the North’ is quite the lofty title, but Lossiemouth in Moray more than lives up to it. Also affectionately known by locals as ‘the jewel of the Moray Firth’, this gorgeous little coastal town features a tranquil harbour and the picturesque East Beach — easily one of the most beautiful in Scotland. Whether you are a keen surfer or just always loved the idea of living by the coast, Lossiemouth could be just what you’ve been dreaming of.

(Image: Flavio Vallenari / Getty Images)

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It is no secret that Skye is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland, if not the world. There are plenty of secluded villages all over the island perfect for a true retreat from the noise of modern life. In our opinion, though, Skye’s capital town of Portree offers the perfect balance of amenities, culture, and atmosphere. Of course, we can’t not mention restaurants such as The Lower Deck and Scorrybreac that serve up delightful seafood and local produce.

(Image: Eric Yeamans / Getty Images)

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Found along the shore on the outskirts of Edinburgh, South Queensferry is dominated by the legendary Forth Bridges. Many tourists journey to the picturesque coastal town just to snap some photos of the historic structures and then leave, having no idea what they’re missing out on not sticking around. From the breathtaking Dundas Castle to the magnificent Dalmeny House and Hopetoun House stately homes, South Queensferry offers far more than just views of the Forth Bride. There are also plenty of bustling cosy pubs that will no doubt quickly become firm favourites, including The Hawes Inn and The Ferry Tap.

(Image: joe daniel price / Getty Images)

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The pretty town and former burgh of Forres is definitely one for the garden and park lovers. There are almost too many beauty spots in and near Forres to mention, but Castle Bridge and Findhorn Bay are a great place to start. Elsewhere, there are also plenty of independent shops and galleries all over town — and regular cultural events such as the carnival-style Culture Day and the Findhorn Bay Arts Festival. As a bonus for the whisky aficionados, the family-owned Benromach Distillery right outside of the town offers regular tours and tasting experiences that start from just £10.

(Image: Dennis Barnes / Getty Images)

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This is one for the book fanatics, since Wigtown is commonly known as ‘Scotland’s Book Town’. With a name like that, you won’t be surprised to learn that there is all kinds of lovely and historic book shops to get lost in around town. As if that wasn’t enough, this quiet little destination comes alive every September for the yearly Wigtown Book Festival. The amazing event brings authors far and wide to Wigtown for a jam-packed programme of panels, workshops, and various other activities.

(Image: Mercy_C_M_H / Getty Images)

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Tucked along on the northern bank of the River Tay in the heart of Perth and Kinross, Dunkeld is a little slice of paradise. It has everything you could want out of a place to live, from fascinating historic attractions like the awe-inspiring Dunkeld Cathedral to a wealth of charming local shops. The town has become something of a magnet for new businesses and young creatives, which fit right in alongside longtime staples such as The Scottish Deli that dates all the way back to 1809.

(Image: lucentius / Getty Images)

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Leith has earned quite the reputation in the past few years as being one of Scotland’s buzziest neighbourhoods — and with good reason. While many areas of Edinburgh are focused on tradition and heritage above all else, Leith sets itself apart by embracing change. With many artists and other creative types calling Leith home, it is the place to be if you love perusing galleries and watching live music. There are also more yummy bakeries and stylish cafés and restaurants than you could shake a stick at.

(Image: Alicia Fdez / Getty Images)

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Moving from Edinburgh to Glasgow, the market town of Strathaven is around just 30 minutes out of Scotland’s biggest city. Close enough to enjoy all the amenities of city living, while still having its own peaceful charm, Strathaven includes a treasure trove of fabulous green spaces to explore. Meanwhile, lying at the heart of the town is its historic market square that to this day is a bustling hub of shops that sell everything from baked goodies to fashionable clothes.

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There is something so romantic and just fundamentally Scottish about the idea of living on the edge of a loch, and Kinlochleven is the perfect spot to live out that fantasy. As expected, the surroundings are the star of the show here — with the dramatic Mamores mountains and of course the breathtaking Loch Leven being the standouts. There is also plenty of opportunity for climbing and ice sports, but at the end of the day you will no doubt spend most of your time in the comfy little Tailrace Inn or Bothy Bar pubs.

(Image: WhitcombeRD / Getty Images)

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The cute little village of Sanquhar along the River Nith in Dumfries and Galloway has rather a unique claim to fame. It is most famous for its tiny post office, which dates all the way back to 1712 and is considered to be the oldest working post office in the world. That alone isn’t enough to want to move somewhere, of course, unless you are really into your history. Luckily, Sanquhar has lots more to offer. The fascinating Tolbooth Museum (pictured) is probably the next most interesting and historic site in town, but there is also a variety of shops, bakeries, and businesses to get to know as well.