In the last 10 years, the average price of a detached home in Scotland has increased by more than 50%. RoS figures for December of last year itself show the average house price grew by 3.3% compared to December 2022. And the growth continues, spilling over to 2024. As house prices across the nation are upward-bound, some places are gaining more attention than others. What makes these trending residential locations in Scotland garner interest? Let’s find out.
Blairgowrie
It is the gateway to Scotland’s most beautiful landscape. This traditional market town embodies the quintessential charm of Perthshire. Located on the fertile Strathmore Valley, bordered by the River Ericht, Blairgowrie sits at the foothills of the Grampian, close to the southern entrance to Glenshee. Less than 20 miles from Perth, it makes the perfect commuter town.
Lifestyle and neighbourhood
Blairgowrie’s characteristic charm extends to its community. Its social ties and support networks nurture a sense of belonging and positive social bonds for a healthy family life, relocation or retired life. Various community groups, clubs and groups enrich your interests, passions and lifestyle.
Amenities
The Blairgowrie Golf Club consistently features in Scotland’s top courses and hosts PGA and SGL events. Community gardens and allotments encourage green-fingered activity. There are various sports clubs, from rugby to BMX and dance clubs promoting country and Scottish dancing. Join the Quiz League or the Wine Circle to make friends. The Blairgowrie Town Hall is a popular venue for events and entertainment. It hosts pantos, dance shows, digital screenings, comedy shows and more.
Brands from Starbucks to Lidl, independent shops, restaurants and eateries provide a full range of services for life here. Live Active Blairgowrie offers a fully-equipped gym, swimming pool, sports hall and even facilities for kids’ birthday parties.
Commuting and transport
It’s only a 30-minute drive to Perth. Bus services to and from Blairgowrie with routes to Perth, Dundee, Alyth, Coupar Angus, Dunkeld, Aberfeldy, Kirkmichael and Glenshee and a circular town service operate regularly. The nearest railway stations are Perth and Dunkeld & Birnam. The nearest airport is Dundee.
Schools
The new Blairgowrie Community Campus in Elm Drive combines Newhill Primary and St Stephens RC Primary. Blairgowrie High School offers a good, all-round secondary education in the area. More school options are available in Rattray, on the other side of the river.
Essential services
Blairgowrie Community Hospital, managed by NHS Tayside, Perth Royal Infirmary, Murray Royal Hospital, Ninewells Hospital Dundee and Dundee Royal Infirmary, provide healthcare amenities for the residents. There are dentists, opticians, and a physiotherapy clinic in the town. Several high-quality care homes and qualified care providers also offer their services.
Methven
Located 6 miles west of Perth and 10 miles east of Crieff, a 15-minute drive from Perth and an hour’s drive from Edinburgh and Glasgow, Methven sits between the River Almond and Pow Water. Situated in the council of Perth and Kinross in Perthshire, it is a haven for a tranquil life.
Lifestyle and neighbourhood
The close-knit and spirited village community is always ready to reach out to one another. The safety and support empower families, downsizers and retirees who all value a quiet life in cohesive neighbourhoods. Methven Community Centre hosts a social calendar of events and activities everyone can participate in. From a bowling club to a parks committee, there are numerous community groups for like-minded individuals to come together and engage in recreational and charitable activities.
Amenities
Independent shops, farm shops and local businesses on the high street cater to various needs. The post office also has a grocery store for a quick shop. Find rustic to finessed gastronomic gems among its cafes, bistros, pubs and restaurants. There is also affordable housing designed for modern living by Scottish developers.
Commuting and transport
Directly accessible via A85, Methven offers convenient travel links. Buses from Perth take you into the city and back. The nearest railway station is Perth, and the nearest airport is Dundee, about 40 minutes away.
Schools
Methven Primary School at the heart of the village and the nearby outstanding Glenalmond College provide high-quality education.
Essential services
Hospitals and GP surgeries in Perth are easily accessible for Methven residents. Perth Royal Infirmary offers a wide range of healthcare facilities, including paediatric and geriatric care.
Stonehaven
The average coastal Scottish house price rose by 11% during 2022, outperforming the British average of 4%. Seaside towns with easy commutes and amenities are idyllic for family life and retired life.
Situated along the northeast coast of Scotland, 15 miles south of Aberdeen, is Stonehaven, a picturesque harbour town with family-friendly beaches and coves. The hills to the north and south shelter the town from westerly gusts and North Sea gales. The imposing ruins of Dunnottar Castle on the craggy cliffs are a dramatic reminder of its past. Aberdeen is only 20 minutes away, and Dundee is under an hour away, giving you the benefit of an easy commute as well as the joys of living in a pretty seaside town.
Lifestyle and neighbourhood
It is a friendly neighbourhood where people always stop to chat and wave. An engaged community brings residents together for various activities and causes. The town has a calm atmosphere with stunning coastal scenery and views. It is ideal for families, downsizers and retirees who love the quaint Scottish seaside charm without sacrificing modern comforts.
There’s a busy social calendar with everything from festivals to markets to celebrations. Stonehaven’s Hogmanay celebrations are perhaps the most famous.
The summer brings the merriment of Feein’ Market, Folk Festival and Midsummer Beer Happening to the town. Love vintage automobiles? You can look forward to the annual RW Thomson Memorial Rally.
Amenities
Independent shops, weekly farmer’s markets, local businesses and outstanding restaurants keep the town self-sufficient. Some noteworthy hangouts include the Tolbooth Restaurant at the Tolbooth Museum, The Bay Fish & Chips (No.1 fish & chip shop in Scotland 2012 & 2013), Aunty Betty’s ice cream parlour, The Ship Inn, The Carron Fish Bar (No.1 fish & chip shop Scotland 2020) and The Old Pier.
Stonehaven Heated Open Air Pool is Olympic size. Stonehaven Golf Club, overlooking the North Sea, is both panoramic and suitable for players of all abilities. There are also parks, green spaces, a recreational ground, and a bowling green. From playing tennis to sailing, there are plenty of opportunities and amenities for recreational activities.
Commuting and transport
The A90 bypasses the town and meets the A92 in Stonehaven. Stagecoach operates direct bus services to Stonehaven from Aberdeen and the surrounding area. Situated on the main East Coast railway, direct services from Edinburgh (2 hours), Glasgow (2.5 hours), and Aberdeen (25 minutes), with additional options on change at Dundee, are regular. A land train operates from the town square to the outdoor pool, Dunnottar Castle and the harbour.
Schools
A good selection of primary, secondary, and special education schools are available in the area. These include Croft Nurseries, Simpson Playhouse, Dunnottar Primary, Arduthie Primary School, Mill O’ Forest Primary School, Mackie Academy and Carronhill School.
The University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University are only minutes away from Stonehaven. Nearby Aberdeen College and Dundee and Angus College offer higher education and apprenticeship courses to students aged 16+.
Essential services
Kincardine Community Hospital and Stonehaven Medical Group provide NHS primary care services in the town. There are also several hospitals and healthcare facilities in nearby Aberdeen.
Crieff
Crieff is a historic Perthshire market town, offering natural beauty and well-being. Situated 18 miles west of Perth, on the slopes of the Grampian foothills with the River Earn in its southwest quadrant, it commands panoramic views over the Strathearn Valley. Favoured by families and downsizers, there are ample opportunities for nature pursuits, fishing, golfing, walks and hikes to no end.
Lifestyle and neighbourhood
The close-knit community provides safety and support. It is actively involved in various life-enriching experiences and causes. There are support groups, clubs, organisations and sporting teams. Whether you are looking for past-time activities with fellow seniors, children’s activities or youth programmes, Crieff finds a way for you to engage, share and enjoy.
Amenities
Crieff is well-provided for by various local & independent shops, supermarkets, farm shops, delis, art galleries, businesses, cafes, traditional pubs and fine-dining restaurants. Crieff Hydro offers numerous facilities, from spas to a country club. There are over 60 outdoor and indoor recreational activities available on the estate. The Glenturret Distillery keeps you replenished with fine Scottish whisky. Crieff Golf Club and Gleneagles Golf Resort provide first-class golfing.
Commuting and transport
You can be in Perth or Stirling within 30 minutes and access regular trains. There are frequent bus links from the town. Edinburgh and Glasgow are less than 1.5 hours away.
Schools
Adding to the appeal are its good local schools, including Crieff Primary, Crieff High School, Morrison’s Academy and Ardvreck School.
Essential services
There are various essential services such as dentists, GP surgeries and chemists. The Crieff Medical Centre and Crieff Community Hospital provide NHS healthcare. There is an ambulance station for emergencies and adult and home care services.
Inchture
Located between Dundee and Perth on the northern side of the Firth of Tay, within the Carse of Gowrie is Inchture. It is a thriving commuter village due to its bypass and flyover. Dundee is only 9 miles away, while Perth is just 13 miles away. It is popular with families, retirees and downsizers due to the convenience and new build developments.
Lifestyle and neighbourhood
Community engagement is ubiquitous, and the annual village fete is a highlight. The village hall hosts regular events, classes and kids’ clubs. Classes include various interests, from palates to yoga.
Amenities
Independent shops, a post office, a SPAR store, local eateries and a hotel provide basic amenities to the village. A redwood-lined avenue planted in 1853 is the first known example of redwood successfully cultivated outside North America. It also has a booming new build housing market. Developments designed for contemporary living have created well-planned neighbourhoods, enhancing the stature of the village.
Commuting and transport
Stagecoach East Scotland operates bus services to Dundee and Perth from Inchture. You can catch a train from one of the cities to easily access other parts of the country.
Schools
Inchture Primary School is the principal education provider in the village. Nearby Dundee and Perth offer a good collection of schools for all ages and abilities. Dundee and Perth both have universities and colleges for higher education.
Essential services
The nearby Perth Royal Infirmary, Royal Victoria Hospital Dundee and Ninewells Hospital provide healthcare to residents.
Buying your home with GS Brown
The Scottish landscape is varied, diverse and exceptional. Some towns are best-kept secrets. They offer natural beauty and well-being in satisfying proportions. Buying a property in one of these enviable locations is a lucrative investment with guaranteed higher returns.
GS Brown developments are unique and all-encompassing. We build our homes to the latest environmental standards, so they are highly energy efficient. Fitted with solar panels, they also provide renewable energy. Designed for versatility, natural illumination and safety, we bring higher specs and standards to every home we build.
