From the most picturesque spots to those which have been rejuvenated through investment and voluntary action, here are ten you might like to visit...
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Ten of the best high streets in Scotland. Photo: Chris Jenner/ Iowsun/Shutterstock
. Kirkwall
Kirkwall in Orkney was last year named Scotland’s most beautiful high street after topping a public poll. The town was recognised for its historic centre and the efforts of local volunteers and public bodies to make it a great place to live, work and socialise. Photo: Chris Jenner
. Melrose
Melrose, in the Borders, is built around the ancient marketplace and cross and surrounded by important sites such as Melrose Abbey, the burial site of many Kings of Scotland. From the high street you can also see the Eildon Hills to the south and the Greenyards rugby pitches which stage the world’s oldest annual rugby sevens tournament. Photo: Antonel
. St Andrews
Market Street in St Andrews is known for its mix of shops and bars which cater for locals, tourists and students. It is connected to North and South Street on either side by more streets and lanes boasting an array of independent businesses and eateries. Photo: Natakorn Sapermsap
5. Linlithgow
In West Lothian there is Linlithgow, a favourite of the Stewart kings of the 15th and 16th centuries. The high street has a blend of old and new buildings packed with independent shops and cafes and the nearby Linlithgow Palace and Loch are a must visit. Pic: The nearby Linlithgow Palace and Loch. Photo: John Devlin
6. Ballater
In the North-East, Ballater is a quaint village separated by green spaces and Bridge Street offers a variety of pubs, restaurants and cafes along with a deli, butcher, outdoor store and a bookshop. The village is popular with tourists hoping to catch a glimpse of the Royals, given its close proximity to Balmoral. Photo: Jane Barlow
7. Broughty Ferry
Broughty Ferry is a bustling town on the eastern outskirts of Dundee and one of its main runs, Brook Street, boasts high street names like Costa, Greggs and Boots as well as an array of independent shops and a high concentration of bars and restaurants, such as Forgans, dotted around nearby. Pic: The nearby Broughty Ferry Castle. Photo: Ian Rutherford
8. Pitlochry
If you’re heading north up the A9, why not stop off at picturesque Pitlochry for a browse of the shops in Atholl Road. Photo: Iowsun