Scotland's Most Beautiful Town

Everyone has a town or village that holds a special place in their heart, and when we asked our readers to vote for the most beautiful town in Scotland, more than 40,000 votes came in. Millport, on the island of Great Cumbrae, came out on top. These are the towns and villages that made the top ten.

Millport is the only town on Great Cumbrae, a small island in the Firth of Clyde off the North Ayrshire coast, and it makes a lovely day out for families. The town is home to Britain’s smallest cathedral, and there are bikes to hire, a harbour, plenty of places to eat and even a rock on the shore painted to look like a crocodile.

Mull’s main town is a pretty fishing port with brightly painted houses set around a sheltered harbour. There are good places to eat, welcoming pubs and a choice of places to stay along the harbour front.

This Orkney port has cobbled streets and narrow lanes that run down to the waterfront between tall stone houses. Much of its character dates from the 18th century, when it grew into a busy port, and it is a lovely place to wander.

Oban is a waterfront town set around a sweeping bay, with wide views across the water. It’s calm in winter, while in summer the town is busy with holidaymakers. Find a table at one of its seafood restaurants and watch the sun go down over the bay.

Stonehaven grew up as a fishing village around its High Street, and today it is a friendly town with a harbour and striking views over the water. The ruins of Dunnottar Castle stand on the cliffs just south of town, and they are one of the most dramatic sights on the east coast.

Known as “the Jewel of the Highlands”, Plockton is a beautiful village on a sheltered bay, with lovely views in every direction. It’s a good place for a slow walk along the seafront.

Portree is Skye’s main town and a popular base for exploring the island. There are boat trips from the harbour, shops to browse and places to stay for every budget, from hotels and guest houses to B&Bs, self-catering and hostels.

Portnahaven, at the southern tip of Islay, is an old fishing village and a good place to spend a little time watching the seals in the harbour.

Lanark is a small town in the Central Belt. Its name is thought to come from the Cumbric word lanerc, meaning “clear space” or “glade”. Visit Lanark Loch, the Falls of Clyde and Corehouse Nature Reserve.

Broughty Ferry has a sandy beach and a castle on the shore, along with lively pubs, cafés, restaurants and independent shops.