North Berwick is the best place to live in the UK in 2024, according to the Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide.
The East Lothian town is the first in Scotland to be named the winner since the newspaper began publishing the list 12 years ago.
Each year, an expert panel of judges visits locations across Britain to assess factors from schools to broadband speeds, and more abstract offerings such as access to green space and culture.
Topping the list of 72 locations, North Berwick’s busy high street and thriving independent shops impressed the judges, alongside the town’s connections to both city and country. The town’s overall way of life, which revolves around its two beaches, was also considered in addition to its schools and family-friendly houses.
Helen Davies, editorial projects director and Best Places to Live editor, said: “This guide is a celebration of towns, cities and villages that are each a fantastic place to live in 2024, from Dunkeld to Knutsford, Falmouth to Leeds. Wherever you are on the property ladder, there will be somewhere to suit you.”
Seven other places in Scotland have made this year’s list, including Dunkeld in Perthshire and the West End of Dundee, which was recognised as the area winner.
Including this year’s winner, here are the eight Scottish locations named in the 2024 Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide.
5. Falkland, Fife
A town which may be familiar to Outlander fans, Falkland is a former royal borough with narrow wynds, pretty cottages and an attractive main street. Despite feeling as though you have taken a step back in time when visiting, the judges appreciate the modern amenities such as coffee shops, organic farms and the community which has grown around the old. | Nicola - stock.adobe.com
6. Kerrera, Inner Hebrides
This tiny Scottish island perhaps isn’t what most would assume to be one of the Best Places to Live in the UK, but the Sunday Times’ judges found Kerrera charming and picturesque. Situated just ten minutes from the mainland, the Hebridean location is practical and fun. | swen_stroop - stock.adobe.com
7. Leith, Edinburgh
Having suffered years of disruptive tram works, the sunshine has returned to Leith. Judges praised the area for its enduring spirit, as areas such as Constitution Street bounce back to business after construction works. | Johannes Valkama - stock.adobe.com
8. Newlands, Glasgow
Newlands, a suburb on the south side of Glasgow, is the final Scottish location to be included in the 2024 Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide. Ongoing investment into the affluent area means the appeal of its blond stone homes, tree-line avenues and access to one of the city’s most beautiful parks only becomes stronger. | Google Maps