New research has revealed the 'best value' seaside destinations in Scotland ahead of the holiday season.
With the cold snap hopefully coming to an end sooner rather than later, it shouldn't be long before people's minds once again turn to how to spend their spring — and summer — days.
Scotland has many scenic spots that are perfect for a sunny day out, whether its a walk through a forest or up a mountain, but when the weather turns warmer there's nothing quite like heading to the beach.
According to the study from Independent Cottages, Portobello Beach in Edinburgh offers the best value coastal day out anywhere in Scotland, placing 23rd overall in the UK.
The other Scottish seaside destinations to appear on the list are Largs, Ayr, Helensburgh, Nairn, Oban, and Dunbar, placing at 25, 29, 46, 49, 52, and 58 respectively on the UK-wide ranking.
The researchers considered the average price of a fish and chips, the average price of a single scoop of ice cream, and the average cost of a rental property when making their ranking.
A staycation property near Portobollo's Seaside Award-winning beach was found to cost £120 per night on average, while the average price of a fish and chips and an ice cream were found to be £12.90 and £2.50 respectively.
Anyone who has visited the capital on a warm spring or summer day will know that locals and tourists alike flock to its two miles of sand to soak up the heat. On a clear day, it also offers gorgeous views across to the north side of the Firth of Forth and out to Inchkeith Island.
Dunbar, the lowest placing Scottish spot on the list, was found to charge £16.95 on average for a fish and chips, while a holiday rental costs £223 on average, though a scoop of ice cream was cheaper at £1.95.
Independent Cottages CEO Matt Fox commented: "The cost of living crisis is continuing to encourage people to tighten their pursestrings and many will be looking for where they can get the best value for money when it comes to holidays this year.
"Luckily, when it comes to the seaside, we really are spoilt for choice in Britain as it’s home to so many wonderful destinations that can offer a wonderful coastal getaway for every need and budget."
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