A PERTHSHIRE town has been named as the best place to live in Scotland.
The Sunday Times Best Places guide ranked Dunkeld as the Best Place to Live in Scotland in its annual list.
It cited its proximity to nature – and notably pine forests – as well a top-notch food scene and easy connections to Edinburgh and Glasgow as reasons why the town came out on the top spot.
The thriving community within the town was also applauded.
The judges said: “A winning combination of stunning Highland scenery and chic Scandi-style sophistication are what you get in Dunkeld.
“Top shops include Aran Bakery and Lon – possibly the hippest general store in Scotland – both run by ex-Great British Bake-off contestant Flora Shedden.
“You can get close to nature with countless walks, with the mighty Hermitage Forest a highlight, while community spirit comes to the fore at the Field, an inspiring community organic veg garden.”
The town of Wadhurst in East Sussex was named overall UK winner of Best Places to Live. However, six other Scottish locations were also featured in the ranking.
They include East Linton in East Lothian, Portobello in Edinburgh, Shawlands in Glasgow and Tighnabruaich in Argyll and Bute.
Helen Davies, the editor of Best Places to Live 2023, said: “When times are tough, where we live matters more than ever. Attractive surroundings, good neighbours and a comfortable home are the best defences when the stresses of modern life seem overwhelming.
“This guide is a celebration of towns, cities and villages that are each a fantastic place to live in 2023 from Orkney to Felixstowe, the Chew Valley to Manchester city centre.”
Dunkeld is also within walking distance of Loch of the Lowes nature reserve, whose pair of resident ospreys recently returned for the breeding season.
