Tejal Somvanshi
North Berwick has once again claimed the prestigious title of “Best Place to Live in Scotland” according to The Sunday Times’ 2025 guide. After being crowned the UK’s overall winner last year, this East Lothian coastal gem continues to impress with its unique blend of natural beauty, strong community spirit, and excellent amenities.
What Makes North Berwick Special?
Located just a 30-minute train ride from Edinburgh, North Berwick offers what judges described as an “unbeatable combination of lovely beaches, quality schools and thriving independent businesses.” The seaside town is “wrapped in natural beauty,” making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
North Berwick Law, a 340-million-year-old volcanic plug that overlooks the town, provides spectacular views and is one of the first landmarks visitors see when exiting the train station. Various paths lead to the summit, with historical ruins to discover along the way.
The town’s character shines through its colorful homes, quirky shops, and beautiful buildings that line the historic streets. A strong outdoor culture pervades, with activities centered around the water including yachting, surfing, sea kayaking, paddleboarding, open-water swimming, and golf.
Community Spirit and Local Business
North Berwick boasts a thriving independent business scene. One notable example is “Why Not,” a unique shop that has supported dozens of local entrepreneurs over the past decade. Owner Adam Elder has helped 25 businesses that started in his shop go on to open their own stores, demonstrating the town’s supportive environment for small businesses.
The town also hosts cultural attractions like Fringe by the Sea, described as North Berwick’s “laid-back alternative” to the Edinburgh Fringe, adding to its appeal for residents and visitors alike.
Similar Posts
Other Top Scottish Locations
While North Berwick topped the list, The Sunday Times highlighted seven other Scottish locations that made it into their 2025 guide:
- Aberfeldy, Perth and Kinross: Described as an “adventure playground” for hikers, bikers, and climbers, with “soaring hills” and “honeyed” stone cottages. The community is working to become Scotland’s healthiest town through initiatives improving fitness and connection with nature.
- Cullen, Moray: A “postcard-pretty” fishing village on the northeast coast with numerous small businesses and water-based activities including paddleboarding, sailing, surfing, and fishing.
- East Neuk, Fife: Popular with holidaymakers for its historic fishing villages featuring “crow-stepped gabled houses,” beautiful beaches, and famous fish suppers.
- Milngavie, East Dunbartonshire: Known for “excellent” schools and great connections to Loch Lomond. The nearby Mugdock Country Park offers miles of gentle walking paths.
- Stockbridge, Edinburgh: An affluent “urban village” with “tall, blonde, sandstone Georgian buildings” and historic charm, just a 15-minute walk from Princes Street.
- Strathbungo, Glasgow: Praised for its “strong feeling of neighbourly togetherness” and community initiatives including the annual Bungo in the Back Lanes festival, Bungo at the Bells outdoor Hogmanay celebration, and Window Wanderland art trail.
- Tiree, Inner Hebrides: A “close-knit” island community with stunning beaches, blooming wildflowers, and “world-class” watersports. Its small airport with two daily flights to Glasgow gives it an advantage over neighboring islands.
How Places Were Selected
The Sunday Times guide, which features 72 locations across the UK, follows a rigorous selection process. Judges visit all locations personally and talk to locals to assess what life is really like in each place.
“What makes our guide unique is that we actually visit all the places we choose and talk to locals to find out what life is really like there,” said Helen Davies, editorial projects director and Best Places to Live editor.
The assessment criteria include schools, transport links, broadband speeds, mobile signal, culture, access to green spaces, and the health of the high street. Most importantly, judges look for “towns, villages and cities with strong communities who work hard to make the best of where they live, and play hard too.”
Visitor Perspective
Journalists who have visited North Berwick report being impressed by its charm and character. The town’s fresh sea air, beautiful beaches, and bustling harbor create an inviting atmosphere for both residents and day-trippers.
For Edinburgh residents, North Berwick’s proximity makes it an attractive option for a day out of the city, with the 30-minute train journey offering easy access to seaside relaxation and outdoor adventures.
