Its town centre was harshly criticised.
The town was also called “totally underwhelming”(Image: Coldupnorth, CC BY-SA 4.0)
All over Scotland, there are towns and villages that divide opinion. Some locals and visitors love them, while others have nothing but negative things to say.
Although everyone has their own viewpoint, there is one magazine that is infamous for handing out trophies to the ugliest settlements in Scotland. Urban Realm is a planning journal that known for its Plook on the Plinth Award that was recently scrapped due to backlash.
As reported by the Daily Record, Port Glasgow in Inverclyde was named the “most dismal” town in Scotland earlier this month by Urban Realm. However, a range of other towns across the country were also in the running for the controversial title.
One of these was Airdrie in North Lanarkshire, around 15 miles from Glasgow. It was criticised by Urban Realm for being “depressing”, with its town centre singled out in particular.
Airdrie is a former industrial hub that is today a popular commuting town. Home to a population of approximately 36,000 people, it is one of the largest towns in North Lanarkshire.
Urban Realm wrote: “The town centre is depressing, run down and totally underwhelming.”
Airdrie was described by Urban Realm as “depressing”(Image: Google Maps)
Although being the subject of harsh criticism from Urban Realm, Airdrie is a great destination whether you are looking for a staycation or a place to live. From its fascinating attractions to its thriving food scene, there is something for everyone.
Airdrie’s industrial peak was back in the 19th century, with among its major industries at the time being coal mining. It is also known for its major contributions to banking, engineering, and more.
Today, the town is home to a number of unique attractions that make it a great choice for a day out. These include the Excelsior Stadium football stadium, the Airdrie Leisure Centre, and its historic Town Hall.
The Excelsior Stadium is one of Airdrie’s top attractions(Image: Rob Atherton / Getty Images)
Meanwhile, despite being described by Urban Realm as “depressing” and “run down”, Airdrie’s town centre has lots going on. It is a top destination for shopping, home to everything from supermarkets to bakeries and other independent businesses.
Foodies will also find plenty to love about Airdrie. The large town is home to a huge selection of eateries, from cosy cafés to renowned restaurants.
One of the top food spots around town is Harty’s at the Fourways. The restaurant, which offers a traditional and varied menu, is a firm favourite amongst locals and visitors alike.
Elsewhere, The Tipsy Cow is a gastropub that serves up everything from coffee and brunch to cocktails and steaks. It also hosts regular live music every Friday night.
As reported by the Daily Record, Urban Realm announced earlier this week that the Plook on the Plinth Award will be scrapped for good. The news followed backlash from Port Glasgow officials and residents after the town received the 2025 prize.
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We also reported that Arbroath in Angus was shortlisted for the 2025 Plook on the Plinth Award. The former royal burgh was described as “the saddest” on Scotland’s east coast.
The full list of places in Scotland that were shortlisted for the Plook on the Plinth Award can be found on the Urban Realm website.