FOR… SCOTTISH HISTORY

Banff, Aberdeenshire

On the east coast of Scotland, an hour north of Aberdeen, Banff is described as ‘a miniature Edinburgh’ – one of Scotland’s best-preserved historic towns, famed for its salmon fishing, fine beaches and Georgian architecture (including some gorgeous period houses). There’s lots to do here, too: sailing out of the harbour marina, hiking in the Cairngorms National Park, or surfing the waves at beautiful Inverboyndie beach – yet prices here are more than £100,000 below the national average. A six-bedroom, Grade B listed townhouse with sea views is on the market at £295,000 (roughly the cost of a one-bed flat in central Edinburgh). On the other side of the Deveron Estuary’s seven-arch bridge, the fishing port of Macduff is even cheaper.

• Average house price: £154,211.