Heres Why This Town Has Just Been Named The Best Place To Live In Scotland

And the award winner for the Best Place to Live in Scotland is…Melrose! As pretty as can be, the town of Melrose is Scotland’s answer to the Cotswolds, yet it still stands out as a jewel in its own right. This charming place, nestled deep in the heart of the Scottish Borders, is a historical mosaic famed for its age-old abbey ruins. A golden nugget in terms of independent bespoke shops and scenic splendour, it’s also the birthplace of the rugby sevens.

In order to find the best places to live, the distinguished Sunday Times guide considered a vast array of factors from culture and community spirit to broadband speed, schools and more.

Standing proudly in the heart of town, Melrose Abbey is unspeakably beautiful as far as ruins go. As one of Scotland’s most famous historic sites, the Abbey was founded in 1136 for the Cistercian Order by David I.

From sculptures of hobgoblins and a bagpipe-playing pig (no joke) to cooks holding ladles, the surviving parts are from the 15th century. Beating beneath these breathtaking ruins is said to be the heart of Robert the Bruce, which is acknowledged with a commemorative stone plaque.

Just a stone’s throw from Melrose is Abbotsford House, the former home of legendary Scots writer Sir Walter Scott. This architectural wonder, which Scott himself referred to as ‘romance in stone and mortar’, plays host to countless objects and artefacts that provide insight into his captivating mind.

The Three Hills Roman Heritage Centre at the Market Square is a museum that pays homage to Trimontium, the nearby 370-acre Roman Fort at Newstead. Trimontium means ‘the place of the three hills’ and refers to the majestic Eildon Hills that paint the town’s backdrop. Guided tours to the site operate between April and October.

Aside from the dapper town square, Melrose is set amidst a smorgasbord of verdant scenery awash with multiple shades of green, while the Eildon Hills are a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. When in full bloom, a wander around Harmony Garden is just the ticket. This striking place is home to the annual Borders Book Festival – an event woven into the fabric of society.

A town’s character is often reflected in the local businesses. And Melrose is brimming with bespoke spots. From the wine shop and the deli to the two butchers, bakery, sweetie shop, bookshop, boutiques and magical flower shops, there’s enough fun to entertain all kinds.

As the birthplace of the rugby sevens, Melrose and rugby go way back. It started in 1883 after a local suggested a shortened version of the popular game where seven players play seven-minute halves. This celebrated annual event has been going strong at the Greenyards ever since, and it welcomes teams from all over the world.

Like the rest of Scotland, Melrose takes advantage of the local larder with its surprisingly sizeable array of eateries. A culinary icon, the ever-so-stylish Hoebridge is a family-run haven with the seasonal menu of champions.

The Tweedbank stop along the famous and wonderfully scenic Borders Railway line is a mere 20-minute walk from Melrose, while the 4 Abbeys Circular Cycle Route is a firm favourite for those on wheels.

From the captivating history to its rugby heritage, and the breathtaking countryside, Melrose holds the key to the hearts of many and not just Robert the Bruce!

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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