Travel experts at WorldAtlas have released a list of Scotland's best places to live in 2026, featuring nine destinations ranging from bustling cities to tranquil islands. The list, published on July 7, includes North Berwick in East Lothian, a seaside town and former royal burgh known for its beaches and golf courses.
North Berwick: Coastal Charm and Independent Shops
North Berwick sits on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth, offering picturesque beaches like West Beach, a long stretch of soft sand with views of Craigleith and Bass Rock. The beach is popular with families, sunbathers, and birdwatchers, and features a summer putting green. WorldAtlas praised the town's independent shops on High Street, including Paper Flower, Whynot? delicatessen, All About Countrywear, and The Sugar Mountain. The town also has a well-regarded secondary school, North Berwick High, and a direct train to Edinburgh in about 30 minutes. Golfers will recognize North Berwick Golf Club, founded in 1832, which is the 13th-oldest golf club in the world.
Linlithgow: Historic Palace and High Property Prices
Linlithgow in West Lothian, about 20 miles from Edinburgh, is known for Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. WorldAtlas highlighted its strong schools, including Linlithgow Academy, but noted high property prices averaging £315,000—well above the Scotland-wide average of £190,000.
Isle of Arran: Scotland in Miniature
The Isle of Arran, the only island on the list, is the largest in the Firth of Clyde and Scotland's seventh-largest island. Often called 'Scotland in Miniature' for its mix of Highland and Lowland scenery, Arran boasts friendly locals, dramatic mountains, and the 875-metre-high Goat Fell.
Cities and Other Locations
Edinburgh was praised for its tram and bus network, while Glasgow was noted for cultural attractions like Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Riverside Museum, and Barrowland Ballroom. The list also includes Perth, Inverness, Stirling, and Dundee. The full list of nine best places to live in Scotland in 2026 according to WorldAtlas is: Linlithgow, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Perth, Inverness, North Berwick, Stirling, Dundee, and Isle of Arran.
