Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have brought some of Scotland's most picturesque streets and avenues to a global audience, yet new research indicates that owning property in these sought-after locations may not be as prohibitively expensive as anticipated.
A study by Lloyds and Bank of Scotland found that average homes on Pier Road in Luss, a village on Loch Lomond known for its scenic beauty, sell for under £159,000. This road ranked 19th in a list of the UK's top 20 prettiest residential spots. The village itself was previously featured on Scottish television as the fictional setting for the soap opera 'Take the High Road'.
Edinburgh also features prominently in the research, with several of its visually appealing streets having served as backdrops for films and television dramas. Victoria Street in the Old Town, which dates back to 1820, secured the 4th position in the UK's top 20. The street, known for its colorful shop fronts, is said to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films, as author J.K. Rowling spent time in nearby cafes. Victoria Street is particularly noted for its festive illuminations during Christmas.
Circus Lane in Edinburgh's Stockbridge neighborhood, with its charming cobblestones, was ranked ninth. However, its rising popularity on Instagram has led to concerns among some residents about "overtourism," with visitors sometimes peering into windows.
Isla Benzie, head of mortgages at Bank of Scotland, commented that Scotland's numerous photogenic locations reflect the country's character, history, and natural beauty. She added that while some of these popular spots are in high-demand urban areas, others demonstrate that acquiring property in picturesque surroundings can be more affordable than commonly believed.
"As more people are inspired to seek out new locations through social media, it’s also important that visitors help preserve what makes them special by being considerate of local residents and the communities that call these places home,” Benzie stated.
Nationally, Gold Hill in Shaftesbury, Dorset, a steep, cobbled path famously featured in a 1970s Hovis bread advertisement, ranked fifth. The top spot was awarded to Royal Crescent in Bath, Somerset, a Georgian architectural masterpiece built between 1767 and 1774. The crescent, comprising 30 terraced homes overlooking Victoria Park, is recognized by television audiences as the home of the Featherington family in the Netflix drama 'Bridgerton'.