North East Coast of Scotland: An expert view on where to buy
From traditional harbourside villages to elegant inland market towns, the North East Coast of Scotland presents an enticing prospect for discerning homebuyers.
With dramatic seascapes, a choice of amazing property types, and unspoilt countryside, the region is ideal for those seeking a refined lifestyle away from urban sprawl.
There are also excellent schools across the region, and most areas are within 1 to 1.5 hours’ drive of Aberdeen International Airport or Inverness Airport.
Here we explore some of the most desirable places to live, both coastal and inland, along this exceptional stretch of Scotland.
Living on the North East Coast of Scotland
Scotland’s North East coastline offers a spectacular blend of unspoilt natural beauty and time-honoured communities, with harbours, beaches, and elegant properties dotted along its length.
The North East Coast of Scotland offers a sought-after lifestyle and appealing location for many homebuyers.
Nairn
Known for its expansive sandy beaches and sunny microclimate, Nairn is often regarded as one of the Highlands’ most appealing coastal areas.
This lovely market town offers refined coastal living paired with a strong cultural and sporting scene. It is home to two championship golf courses, a marina, and a vibrant arts community.
There are a wide range of properties in Nairn, ranging from grand Victorian villas to stylish new build homes and coastal apartments, with more secluded countryside estates available on the outskirts.
Nairn’s railway station has direct links to Inverness and Aberdeen. Families benefit from highly regarded local schooling through Nairn Academy, while independent options are available in nearby Inverness.
Portknockie
Best known for its iconic Bow Fiddle Rock (a natural sea arch), Portknockie combines coastal drama with Victorian elegance. It offers solid stone-built homes and generous garden plots, many with spectacular sea views.
Portknockie has a well-regarded primary school and is around 20 minutes by road from the historic town of Elgin, with strong access to both Aberdeen and Inverness.
Findochty
Findochty is a traditional fishing village on the Moray Firth that oozes charm. It is peaceful, with a quiet marina and sheltered beach.
Homes here range from historic dwellings with colourful facades and fisherman’s cottages to detached sea-view villas. The village sits just off the A98 and has a primary school, with secondary students typically travelling to Buckie.
Cullen
A jewel of the Moray Firth, the village of Cullen offers one of the region’s most visually appealing townscapes, thanks to its sandstone viaduct, charming seafront, and historic buildings.
Property includes stone and slate houses and compact cottages, as well as imposing period homes.
Cullen Primary School is located on the outskirts of the village, and the prestigious Gordonstoun is within easy reach for independent education.
Portsoy
A town steeped in maritime tradition, Portsoy is centred around a historic harbour that hosts the internationally recognised Scottish Traditional Boat Festival.
Homes include cosy, period seafront cottages, terraced houses, and grander family properties.
The town has one primary school, with secondary options available at the nearby Banff Academy.
Banff
Distinguished by its Georgian architecture and beautiful seafront setting, the stunningly scenic town of Banff offers stately homes, modern developments, and elegant villas.
Banff has good road connections and offers both primary and secondary education, with private schools accessible in the wider region.
Macduff
Just across the estuary of the River Deveron from Banff, Macduff combines working harbour energy with residential charm.
Properties in and around Macduff include a wonderful mix of substantial granite houses, terraced homes, and newer coastal developments.
Macduff Primary and Banff Academy support local families, and the town’s aquarium, beautiful beach, and walkability add lifestyle appeal.
Buckie
An extraordinarily pretty harbour town, Buckie benefits from strong community roots and serves as a hub for the surrounding villages.
Buckie property types include granite-built homes, large, detached properties with land, sea-facing terraces, and modern, suburban developments.
Education is provided through local primary schools and Buckie High School.
Pennan
Renowned for its dramatic cliffside setting and famous red phone box (made famous by the 1980s film Local Hero), Pennan is one of the coast’s most iconic locations.
A village with a small harbour, property here is limited but desirable, with cosy, whitewashed fishermen’s cottages.
There are schooling options requiring travel to nearby communities, and private education is accessible further south.
Lossiemouth
With its sweeping sandy beaches and a pretty marina, Lossiemouth is the kind of place that’s easy to fall in love with. It offers a relaxed seaside lifestyle that still feels connected.
Homes here range from elegant Victorian villas full of character to sleek seafront apartments and well-designed modern builds.
Lossiemouth is a popular choice for RAF families, thanks to the nearby base. It also appeals to many homebuyers looking for coastal living with a sense of community.
Families benefit from Lossiemouth High School, which is widely praised locally and has recently been rebuilt to a high standard. Additionally, the esteemed Gordonstoun School is just a short drive away.
Rosehearty
If your idea of the good life involves sea views, a friendly village feel, and a slower pace, then Rosehearty could be just the place.
Tucked along the coast west of Fraserburgh, it’s a peaceful spot with long stretches of beach, a scenic golf course, and a strong sense of heritage.
Homes here range from traditional fisherman’s cottages full of charm to modern properties designed to make the most of those incredible views.
There’s a local primary school in the village, and for older children, Fraserburgh Academy is nearby.
Inland towns
While the dramatic coastline of the North East Coast of Scotland may catch the eye first, a little inland, many towns and villages have their own distinct appeal.
The North East’s rolling countryside, supportive communities, excellent schools, and easy access to the coast and larger towns make the region’s inland towns highly desirable among homebuyers.
For families or anyone seeking a quieter lifestyle without losing out on convenience, there are a number of excellent options. Here we look at a few:
Elgin
Elgin offers a seamless blend of old-world charm and contemporary convenience. From graceful Georgian townhouses and distinguished sandstone villas to tranquil rural retreats on its outskirts, the town caters to a variety of tastes and lifestyles.
Elgin has excellent rail connections and is close to the renowned Gordonstoun School. State options include Elgin Academy and several well-rated primaries.
Fochabers
Set on the River Spey, Fochabers was founded in the 18th century. This fine example of a planned village became popular during the era of the Scottish Enlightenment.
It blends scenic surroundings with period architecture and strong community life. Buyers will find Georgian terraces, Victorian homes, bungalows with land, and newer family houses.
Just off the A96, the town is ideally placed between Elgin and Keith. Milne’s High and Primary Schools serve the area, with private options within driving distance.
Forres
A Royal Burgh west of Elgin, Forres is known for its cultural events, ancient woodland walks and award-winning floral displays.
Housing includes Victorian homes, stone cottages, and larger country properties, as well as aesthetically appealing new builds.
With rail links and access to the A96, Forres is well situated for travel.
Forres Academy provides secondary education, while Drumduan School offers a respected independent Steiner-Waldorf approach.
Banchory
Situated along the River Dee in Aberdeenshire, Banchory is a much sought-after, thriving inland town. It is known for its natural beauty, large stone-built homes, riverside properties, and access to elite schooling.
It’s popular among professionals commuting to Aberdeen. Residents benefit from an attractive high street, and country walks. There are excellent schools, including Banchory Academy, and access to top private institutions in the city.
Looking to move to the North East Coast of Scotland?
At Garrington Property Finders, we help discerning buyers find exceptional homes across the North East Coast of Scotland, including properties that never reach the open market.
With our extensive local knowledge, strong professional networks, and a bespoke approach tailored to your requirements, finding the right home on the North East Coast of Scotland is made simple, seamless, and rewarding.
If you’d welcome some guidance in finding your ideal property in Scotland, we’d be delighted to assist. Please do get in touch for a no-obligation conversation about your requirements.
