A new report has revealed the places on Scotland’s dramatic coastline where property prices are rising fastest.
The Bank of Scotland Coastal Homes Review tracks house price movements in coastal locations across Britain and this year has seen St Andrews crowned as the priciest spot north of the border - while Rothsay was the cheapest.
Those looking to purchase a home by the sea in Scotland will find that, on average, properties cost £184,224, up 1 per cent during 2023 and outperforming the average across Britain which saw a decline (-4 per cent).
When looking over the last decade, the cost of Scottish coastal homes rose by almost a third (+31 per cent) on average between 2013 and 2023.
Properties in Cockenzie (+72 per cent) and Anstruther (+70 per cent) have seen the biggest gains in the last decade.
Graham Blair, Mortgages Director, Bank of Scotland, said: “Scotland’s stunning coastline and breathtaking scenery make it a wonderful place for many to call home. For buyers looking to live by the sea, Scotland offers real value in comparison to coastal areas in other parts of Britain.
“In fact, for those who are keen for a peaceful and tranquil life and a more remote way of living, Rothesay on the Isle of Bute is the most affordable place to live by the sea in all of Britain. Coastal properties here are £100,000 on average.
“At the other end of the scale, St Andrews is now the most expensive coastal location in Scotland. Well-known for its famous golf courses and home to the nation’s oldest university, average property prices in the area are now more than £423,000. Scenic North Berwick isn’t far behind with properties there fetching a similar price tag.”
Here are the 10 locations by the sea which saw property prices rise the most between 2022 and 2023.
5. Greenock
The second of three Scottish coastal towns that have seen property prices rise by 10 per cent between 2022 and 2023 is Greenock. The average home in the Inverclyde town has increased from £97,608 to £107,111. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Prestwick
The South Ayrshire town of Prestwick is the last to enjoy a double digit rise in average property prices - from £195,649 to £214,384, | Canva/Getty Images
7. Thurso
Four Scottish coastal towns saw a even per cent increase in average property prices. First up is Thurso, in Caithness, which saw prices rocket from £126,716 to £136,088. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Alness
The Highland town of Alness has seen average propery prices rise from £157,669 in 2022 to £169,068 in 2023. That's a seven per cent increase. | Google Maps