Inside 'cleanest town in Scotland' that's home to beautiful beaches and whale watching

Scotland is battling a significant litter issue, reportedly worsened by the Covid-19 pandemic. Urban areas have been hit hardest, with Dundee and Glasgow topping the list of Scotland's most littered cities, as per a recent report from Keep Scotland Beautiful featured in The Herald.

However, other parts of Scotland are being praised for their cleanliness. Shetland has earned the title of Scotland's cleanest place. The new data reveals that an impressive 98.7% of public spaces on the archipelago are predominantly free of litter - the highest percentage in the country.

This honour allows Lerwick, Shetland's main port, to boast the title of Scotland's cleanest town.

As the largest settlement on the island group, housing around 7,000 residents, it serves as the perfect starting point to discover this remote part of Scotland.

Situated almost halfway between Bergen in Norway and Aberdeen, Lerwick offers a unique culture.

Its quaint lanes and laid-back atmosphere make it an ideal holiday destination - with top attractions including the Iron Age broch of Clickimin and the Shetland Museum, reports the Daily Record.

Visitors can also enjoy orca watching in the nearby seas or stay on land to explore the captivating marine life around the islands. Lerwick even boasts its own beach, Bain's, just a stone's throw from the town centre.

If you fancy a bit of solitude, there are plenty of beaches scattered around the Shetland Mainland.

Sumburgh, situated at the southernmost point of the island and just a half-hour drive away, is famed for its breathtaking white sands.

Also nestled in the southern region of the island is Spiggie Beach. Its pristine waters have been likened to those of a Greek island, albeit with a cooler climate.

After a day of adventuring, unwind with some grub or a drink at one of Lerwick's pubs or restaurants.

The Lounge Bar, which holds the top spot on TripAdvisor, provides live music for its guests.

For a bite to eat, No 88 Kitchen and Bar comes highly recommended. This local gem dishes up an intriguing blend of Scottish, British and Philippine cuisine.