If you could live anywhere in Scotland...?

[Fraudornot]

Inspired by the similar thread for England, if you could live anywhere in Scotland where would you live? We are currently in the north of England but I'm originally from Scotland and would love to move back when we retire. Absolutely love the West coast and spent a lot of holidays there. But where should we be considering? Don't mind being a bit remote as long as we are a drive away from a city.

Galloway, Galloway, Galloway.

I'm intending on moving there in the next 5 years.

@ApolloandDaphne I am jealous! I was at university there and it was the happiest time of my life. I often have dreams where I am trying to go to meet someone (with an office in the Swallowgate) but can never get there. Either that or I am trying to get to the Central but can never get there!!

I haven't been back in more than 20 years but I keep meaning to.

Ardrossan improved? Err no. Unless you like the smell of weed wafting up Glasgow street. Beats the smell of sewage in Saltcoats though.

Lovely views of Arran though.

Beautiful though the west coast is, I'd be staying east where it's less wet, preferably East Lothian or St Andrews. Further north the Black Isle, where I like Cromarty and Rosemarkie, and further north again, Dornoch, though it's more of a stretch to the cities.
I would also consider the Scottish Borders. Lots of nice places there and some not too far to Edinburgh.

Hasn't changed then 😂

We’re in Perthshire, it is beautiful and especially at this time of year. Half an hour outside Dundee, an hour to Aberdeen, just under two hours to either Glasgow or Edinburgh. We can be in the mountains or on the beach in under an hour, so something for everyone! Would consider moving to Broughty Ferry also. Toyed with
the idea of going west to Glasgow but not sure I’d cope with the rain. We moved up here from London and it’s been a huge adjustment to rural life, but you gain as much as you give up.

I don't think I would want to permanently live in Scotland again as for me it lacked cultural and professional diversity and choice

I don't recognise this description of Scotland at all and find it surprising from someone who has lived in Edinburgh and Glasgow but ok.

I loved the cafe culture in the West End but we wanted more space for the growing family. Tried Stirling but hated it. We have family in England and Scotland and hope to find the ideal place someday... scenary, space for the donkeys and country walks, but all the perks of the West End would be perfect.

DH and I met at St Andrews and we moved back as we approach retirement. It's still as lovely as it was during our student days.

@ApolloandDaphne that's lovely

@LadyMonicaBaddingham

Ardrossan or Brodick.

I think those of us familiar with Ardrossan are wondering on its inclusion here....can you enlighten us, please!

Largs for me! Lots of happy holiday memories there!

@Fraudornot aww it's bliss, I'm just outside Alloway, it's beautiful yes. We frequent greenan beach mostly as the people are very friendly, even the tourists 😆
Here's a couple of pics to make you want to move xx

Lismore. The most beautiful place on earth.

Totally agree, beautiful isolated beaches, benefits from the warm Gulf Stream air, loads and loads of history and culture. Kirkcudbright is the artists town where the Glasgow Boys frequently stayed.
Also very easy to get to Glasgow, Edinburgh and beyond, or across to the English North or south via the M6.

We’re in the New Town of Edinburgh and we’re staying put! I love it here, no desire to move.

If I had lots of money and didn’t think it a bit immoral I’d buy a holiday home in Kintyre. I love it there, but couldn’t hack it full time - the quietness is perfect for a break but not full time (for me).

I’m laughing at the votes for Dalgety Bay. It’s not for me at all! I had a friend from there and she used to call it Dulgety Bay. Pretty views and very practical but a bit sterile.

I’m actually going to be more specific - I want to live here - in this house. https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/133470743#/media?id=media0&channel=RES_BUY

it’s very close to the station so easy to get into Edinburgh in 30 mins, beach front, amazing views, close to town, lovely kitchen, view, beach front, roomy, lots of bathrooms, view, …. I want it. Does anyone have a couple of million you could lend me?

I'll be looking for hints on who is a Mumsnetter at the Rideout or Gala Day in a couple of weeks. 😁
We have big family ties to the area (former Cornet, Gala Queen, and New Year Bonfire Lighter in the immediate family), but I think I would go mad if I actually lived in Biggar..... (sorry)
Edinburgh for me.

I'd happily live on the Isle of Arran if the road surfaces were better.

Oh I'm really not a particular fan of East Lothian but that is very nice!

https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/134511632

This is one I have my eye on but only for holidays.

I have visited many times and winter is my favourite time to go. Not everyone is shy of that kind of weather/light!

I live on one of the smaller islands in the Hebrides (naming it would be too outing) and it is an incredible place to live and raise children. You just can’t find this kind of freedom on the mainland. The sense of community, freedom, beautiful crystal clear sea, beaches, wildlife, sunsets and water sports are what we love. Logistics can be a pain, especially in winter but it’s a beautifully simple life!

This is exactly my situation too. In E Lothian in our dream location. Just wish we could have afforded a bigger house. It's perfect for us... 20 min drive into Edinburgh or 10 mins to the lovely beaches we have here.

I'd love Edinburgh ❤️

Great holidays to be had there!