(Image: Jamie Simpson)
Inverurie has been named Scotland’s Town of the Year in recognition of its thriving high street, strong community spirit and support for local businesses.
The Aberdeenshire market town received the title at the Scotland Loves Local Awards, organised by Scotland’s Towns Partnership.
Inverurie has been named Scotland’s Town of the Year. (Image: Jamie Simpson)
Judges praised Inverurie’s high retail occupancy rates, mix of established family businesses and independent shops, and its ability to retain four major high street banks.
The town’s collaborative approach has brought together businesses, community groups, volunteers, residents and the public sector to support the local economy and develop community events.
Inverurie wins Scotland’s Town of the Year 2026. (Image: Jamie Simpson)
These efforts have contributed to a 10% increase in footfall in the year to January, alongside a growing calendar of events attracting thousands of visitors.
Highlights include the launch of the Garioch Pipe Band Championships at Kellands Park, which attracted around 9,000 visitors, and the annual Christmas lights switch-on, which draws approximately 8,000 people.
Inverurie wins Scotland’s Town of the Year 2026. (Image: Jamie Simpson)
Inverurie’s monthly farmers’ market has also doubled in size since 2024, with 34 stalls now operating in Market Square.
Inverurie was shortlisted for Town of the Year alongside East Kilbride, Falkirk, Fort William and Kirkwall.
It is the third town to receive the title, following previous wins by Paisley and Oban.
Read more
Councillor Judy Whyte, provost of Aberdeenshire, said: “I couldn’t be prouder for Inverurie to be Scotland’s Town of the Year.
“We have so much to offer here, for visitors, as well as people who choose to live and work here.
“It’s a great place.”
Derek Ritchie, manager of We Are Inverurie BID, said: “The most important prize to me is town of the year, but I am delighted.
“Both awards are testament to the hard work that takes place across the town.
“Inverurie has a great community feel for quite a small town."
Inverurie has been named Scotland’s Town of the Year. (Image: Jamie Simpson)
Neil Mellis, chair of Inverurie Events, said: “We’ve always had a bustling High Street.
“We’re very lucky to have the Market Square with the memorial garden and the Town Hall.
“We’ve always had a real heart to the community, with great local shops, bars and restaurants.
“But in recent years it’s really flourished, with more people coming into town and seeing what we’re all about.”