Best Place to Live in Scotland 2023

Dunkeld, Perthshire, has been named the best place to live in Scotland by the Sunday Times’ annual Best Places to Live guide. And it's easy to see why.

But a big shout-out to the other popular locations, which you’ll find here.

OK, time to take a closer look at the winner and two other favourites we know very well.

My heart is in the Highlands. Ah, beautiful Dunkeld village. It’s a winning combination of stunning Perthshire scenery and chic Scandi-style.

Dunkeld's high street has top-notch shops and restaurants, including Aran Bakery and Lon – possibly the coolest general store in Scotland. And if you're looking to get close to nature, there are countless walks to choose from, with the mighty Hermitage Forest being a highlight.

But it's not just about fashion and fir trees.

Dunkeld also has a wonderful community spirit.

Redwood Wines, a bar, shop and restaurant opened in 2021 by Roseanna Preston-Jones and her husband Morgwn, is a testament to this.

The Field, an inspiring community organic veg garden, is another example of everything that’s fresh about Dunkeld.

The other Scottish locations mentioned in the list include Portobello, Edinburgh and Shawlands, Glasgow.

Have you been to ‘Porty’ recently? The capital’s seaside suburb has had a serious makeover and is now the hot address for artists, authors, foodies and cool young families.

Its Georgian and Victorian buildings made it ripe for development, and what happened next defied all expectations.

Now, it's the location of choice for those seeking an interesting bookshop, artisan baker, or even a branch of Bross Bagels. And with its sweeping beach, it's no wonder that Portobello is so popular.

And so over to Glasgow.

Shawlands is far more multicultural, connected and even caffeinated than that traditional hipster hangout, Finnieston.

There's an unbeatable coffee culture in this creative, multicultural corner of the Southside, and much more besides.

There’s also a strong network of independent businesses - especially at the busy Park Lane market – arty pop-ups, good sports facilities, and rapid rail links to central Glasgow.

All three of these locations have been recognised by The Sunday Times for their range of plus points.

Including schools, transport, broadband, culture, green spaces, and the health of the high street.

The annual Best Places to Live guide is a helpful resource for anyone looking to relocate or find a new place to call home.

It's important to consider all aspects of an area before making a decision, and the guide's comprehensive approach can help with that.

At Aberdein Considine, we have branches in all three hotspots. Plus, our local knowledge is second to none.

Our job is to help our clients find their dream homes. And with so many fantastic options in Scotland, it can be difficult to know where to start.

These three outstanding areas could just be it.

If you’re ready to take the next step to your perfect place, don't hesitate to get in touch.