Which areas are in the running to be Scotland's town of the year?

Five areas are in the running to be named as Scotland’s Town of the Year.

Towns across the country have been put forward as part of the 2026 Scotland Loves Local Awards, with a handful shortlisted after nominations.

Last year, Paisley was crowned town of the year, with the inaugural honour being presented to Oban.

Organised by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), the awards aim to recognise all that’s great about the nation’s towns and neighbourhoods.

This is the third year in which the town of the year has been presented as part of the wider awards, and the winners will be announced next month.

The five towns shortlisted are East Kilbride, Falkirk, Fort William, Inverurie, and Kirkwall.

Kimberley Guthrie, STP’s chief officer, said: “The Scotland Loves Local Awards are one of the highlights of our year.

“Well done to each of the places and projects shortlisted – and to all of the people involved. Each of them is a fantastic example of innovation, determination and local action improving lives in communities.”

Spearheaded by STP and supported by the Scottish Government, Scotland Loves Local is the campaign which encourages people to create a better future for their community by choosing local.