The former fishing port on the Moray Firth coast has been named one of the country’s best seaside destinations
Nairn has been named Scotland’s joint best seaside town, sharing top spot with St Andrews in a new survey(Image: Getty Images)
A Highland town often hailed as the driest place in Scotland has just been named the country’s joint best seaside destination.
Nairn, a former fishing port on the Moray Firth coast, topped the Scottish rankings in the annual Which? seaside survey, sharing the spotlight with St Andrews in Fife, the town world-famous as the Home of Golf. Both destinations scored an impressive 76 percent in the poll, placing them among the UK’s most loved coastal spots.
Ayr was the only other Scottish town to feature, but its modest score of 51 percent was based on limited feedback and fewer rating categories.
Located around 17 miles east of Inverness, Nairn has long been a favourite with holidaymakers looking for sea views, sandy beaches and a slower pace of life, Scottish Daily Express reports.
Just east of Inverness, Nairn offers sea views, and one of Scotland’s sunniest, driest climates(Image: Getty Images)
With three beaches and a sunny microclimate thanks to the surrounding hills forming a rain shadow, Nairn is often drier and brighter than other towns across Scotland. It’s even considered one of the sunniest spots in the country.
As well as top marks for scenery and tranquillity, Nairn earned four stars for its beach and seafront, and was praised for the abundance of parking.
Its reputation as a family-friendly destination is backed by VisitScotland, which highlights the area’s opportunities for walking, cycling and exploring the Highlands.
Nature lovers are drawn to nearby Culbin Forest and the Moray Firth, where dolphins, minke whales and seals are often spotted. The town’s birdlife is also a big draw.
While it may not be able to rival St Andrews’ global golfing fame, Nairn holds its own with two championship courses and a proud sporting history.
And if the weather does take a turn, visitors can take refuge in one of the town’s popular pubs or restaurants, such as CJ’s Cafe, Ozzy’s Fine Dining, Sun Dancer, Jackos Bar, The Classroom Bistro, Uncle Bob’s Bar or The Bandstand Hotel and its beer garden.
Just a short drive from the town centre, Cawdor Castle and Nairn Museum add to the area’s appeal with history and heritage.
This year’s Which? survey asked more than 3,800 people to rate their experiences of UK seaside destinations across several categories including beaches, scenery, food and drink, accommodation, attractions and value for money.
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Northumberland’s Bamburgh once again took the overall UK crown, topping the list for the fifth year in a row with five-star ratings for its beach, seafront, scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
Meanwhile, traditional resorts like Blackpool and Southend saw mixed results, and Bognor Regis received the lowest score overall.
Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel, said: “From beautiful coastlines to peaceful walks and charming traditional bucket and spade resorts, the UK seaside offers something for everyone – whatever the weather.
“While you may have your own favourite destination, as well as the top spots in Devon and Wales, our survey shows there are still plenty of beautiful hidden gems across the UK to explore. Some seaside resorts offer better value for money than others, so it is worth looking at surrounding areas of popular spots if you are looking for a cheaper overnight stay.”