Expert judge visited all the locations and assessed factors ranging from the quality of schools and transport links to broadband speeds, culture, access to green spaces and the health of the high street.
Dunkeld in Perthshire has been named as the best place to live in Scotland according to The Sunday Times Best Places To Live guide.
The Sunday Times judges praised Dunkeld for its proximity to nature and pine forests, a top-notch food scene, connections to Edinburgh and Glasgow from nearby Perth, and a thriving village community.
“A winning combination of stunning Highland scenery and chic Scandi-style sophistication are what you get in Dunkeld. Top shops include Aran Bakery and Lon – possibly the hippest general store in Scotland – both run by ex-Great British Bake-off contestant Flora Shedden.
“You can get close to nature with countless walks, with the mighty Hermitage Forest a highlight, while community spirit comes to the fore at the Field, an inspiring community organic veg garden.”
Wadhurst in East Sussex has been named the overall best place to live in the UK in a Sunday Times guide.
Judges said the small market town offers “pretty much everything needed for modern life in miniature”.
Seven locations were named in The Sunday Times UK list however.
The Sunday Times judges praised Dunkeld for its proximity to nature and pine forests, a top-notch food scene, connections to Edinburgh and Glasgow from nearby Perth, and a thriving village community.
5. Newport-on-Tay, Fife:
The Times writes: "Spectacular sunsets and a grandstand view of the Tay Bridge are the most visible highlights of this buzzing suburb of Dundee. It also has a high street that's as good as it gets, a notably friendly community and fast, regular buses to the city." Photo: Newport-on-Tay, Fife:
6. Orkney
The list reads: "The wonderful wildlife and dramatic landscapes make living in this remote location worthwhile, but this collection of 70 islands is also notable for a lively population that displays an impressive entrepreneurial spirit and supports local businesses with gusto." Photo: Contributed
7. Tighnabruaich, Argyll and Bute
The Times writes: "Once a holiday-home hotspot for wealthy merchants, this tiny village is now worth celebrating for its outstanding natural beauty, but also for its thriving independent businesses and a busy community keen to get involved in activities from veg-growing, drama and art to sailing and shinty." Photo: Sam Shedden
8. East Sussex was named as the overall Best Place to Live in the UK
A general view of Wadhurst in East Sussex, which has been named as the overall best place to live in the UK in the annual Sunday Times Best Places to Live guide. Photo: Gareth Fuller