Discover Aberdeenshire | A Visitor's Introduction to Aberdeenshire

Why is Aberdeenshire Worth a Visit?

Aberdeenshire is worth visiting for its stunning scenery, impressive historical sites, and vibrant cultural heritage. Known as "Scotland’s Castle Country," Aberdeenshire boasts over 260 castles, including iconic spots like Dunnottar Castle, Crathes Castle, and Balmoral Castle, each with its own unique story. The region is also home to the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail, offering spectacular views of cliffs, beaches, and ancient fishing villages. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Cairngorms National Park offers world-class hiking, skiing, and wildlife-watching opportunities. With its blend of history, nature, and whisky heritage, Aberdeenshire is a place that truly captures the magic of Scotland.

Aberdeenshire Highlights: Things to See and Do in Aberdeenshire

1. Dunnottar Castle

Perched dramatically on a rocky headland near Stonehaven, Dunnottar Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic castles. Dating back to the 14th century, this medieval fortress has a fascinating history, having once sheltered the Scottish Crown Jewels from Oliver Cromwell’s army. The castle ruins are surrounded by cliffs and offer stunning views over the North Sea. The coastal walk to Dunnottar from Stonehaven is highly recommended, as it offers beautiful scenery and a chance to fully appreciate the castle’s unique location.

2. Balmoral Castle

Balmoral Castle, the Scottish residence of the British Royal Family, is a must-visit for anyone interested in royalty and history. Set amidst the scenic Cairngorms, the castle is surrounded by woodlands and gardens and offers visitors the chance to explore both the grounds and the ballroom. The castle grounds are open to the public during certain months, typically from April to July. Balmoral’s setting within the Cairngorms also makes it a fantastic starting point for outdoor adventures in the surrounding forests and hills.

3. Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail

The Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail stretches along the northeast coast, offering a chance to explore some of Scotland’s most beautiful coastal landscapes. Highlights include the fishing village of Pennan, made famous by the film Local Hero, the sandy beaches of Balmedie, and the dramatic cliffs of Bullers of Buchan, home to puffins and other seabirds. Each town and village along the trail has its own charm, with picturesque harbours, colourful cottages, and excellent seafood, making this trail an ideal way to experience Aberdeenshire’s coastline.

4. Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park covers part of western Aberdeenshire and is the UK’s largest national park, offering an array of outdoor activities year-round. The park is a haven for hikers, with trails ranging from gentle forest walks to challenging mountain ascents. In winter, skiing and snowboarding are popular at the Glenshee Ski Centre. Wildlife lovers can spot red squirrels, deer, ospreys, and the rare Scottish wildcat within the park’s rich forests and moorlands. The Cairngorms is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Scotland’s natural beauty.

5. The Castle Trail

Aberdeenshire’s Castle Trail is a unique driving route that leads visitors through 19 of the area’s most impressive castles, from dramatic ruins to beautifully preserved stately homes. Highlights include Craigievar Castle, a fairytale-like pink castle said to have inspired Walt Disney, and Crathes Castle, known for its stunning gardens and 16th-century interiors. With its mix of historic fortresses and picturesque settings, the Castle Trail offers a fascinating journey into Scotland’s past and is a great way to explore Aberdeenshire’s unique heritage.

6. Glen Garioch Distillery

For whisky enthusiasts, a visit to Glen Garioch Distillery in Oldmeldrum offers a taste of one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, dating back to 1797. Known for its unique Highland single malts, Glen Garioch offers guided tours that include an in-depth look at the whisky-making process and tastings of its distinctive, rich-flavoured whiskies. The distillery’s cosy shop is stocked with whisky bottles and local souvenirs, making it a great stop for those interested in Scotland’s whisky culture.

7. Stonehaven and the Open Air Swimming Pool

Stonehaven, a coastal town with a charming harbour, is known for its scenic beauty, seafood, and annual fireball festival. One of Stonehaven’s unique attractions is its heated, saltwater open-air swimming pool, which has been a local favourite since the 1930s. The pool is open during the summer and offers a fun way to enjoy a swim while taking in the coastal views. Stonehaven’s seafood restaurants and traditional pubs offer excellent dining options, and the town’s location near Dunnottar Castle makes it an ideal stop on a tour of Aberdeenshire.

8. Pitmedden Garden

Pitmedden Garden, an elegant 17th-century walled garden, is a beautifully landscaped space filled with vibrant flowerbeds, manicured hedges, and topiary designs. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, the garden is particularly stunning in summer when the flowerbeds burst with colour. The site also has a small museum dedicated to farming history, along with woodland trails and an orchard, making it an enjoyable visit for garden enthusiasts and families alike.

9. Fraserburgh and the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses

Fraserburgh, a historic fishing town on Aberdeenshire’s northeast coast, is home to the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses. This unique museum is set within Kinnaird Head Lighthouse, Scotland’s first lighthouse, and offers guided tours exploring the lives of lighthouse keepers and the history of Scottish lighthouses. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views over the North Sea and learn about the role these lighthouses played in maritime safety along Scotland’s rugged coast.

10. Haddo House

Haddo House, a grand 18th-century mansion designed by William Adam, is a beautifully preserved estate surrounded by lovely parkland and gardens. Known for its striking Georgian-Palladian architecture, Haddo House is open for guided tours, where visitors can view the impressive art collection, antique furniture, and learn about the Gordon family, who lived there for over 400 years. The surrounding grounds offer walking paths, a lake, and plenty of spots for a quiet picnic, making Haddo House a delightful destination for history and nature lovers.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Aberdeenshire is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Aberdeen is the main hub, with Aberdeen International Airport offering flights from across the UK and Europe. From Aberdeen, you can drive or take trains and buses to towns and attractions throughout Aberdeenshire. The region is also accessible by car from Edinburgh and Glasgow, with scenic drives offering beautiful views along the way.

Getting Around

While major towns are connected by bus and train, having a car is the most convenient way to explore Aberdeenshire, particularly for accessing remote areas, scenic routes, and the Castle Trail. Car rentals are available from Aberdeen, and the driving routes are generally easy to navigate. Alternatively, several local companies offer guided tours of Aberdeenshire’s highlights.

Dining

Aberdeenshire’s dining scene is rich in local flavours, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, beef, and local produce. The Silver Darling in Aberdeen offers excellent seafood with views over the harbour, while The Tolbooth in Stonehaven is a renowned seafood restaurant with dishes inspired by Scottish waters. For a true taste of the Highlands, try Aberdeenshire’s venison, Angus beef, or fish and chips from a local chippie. Many distilleries, like Glen Garioch, also have visitor centres with whisky tastings and pairings to enhance your experience.

When to Visit

Aberdeenshire is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is during the late spring to early autumn months (May to September), when the weather is milder and gardens are in full bloom. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities and festivals, while autumn brings stunning colours to the countryside. Winters in Aberdeenshire can be cold and snowy, but this is also a wonderful time to enjoy the area’s cosy pubs, dramatic landscapes, and winter sports in the Cairngorms.

Local Events

Aberdeenshire hosts a range of local events and festivals, adding extra appeal to any visit. The Braemar Gathering, held each September, is one of Scotland’s oldest Highland Games, attracting visitors from around the world. The Ballater Victoria Week, also in August, is a lively event celebrating Queen Victoria’s connection to the town with parades, live music, and games. Whisky lovers will enjoy the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival in spring, held nearby in the Speyside region, offering tastings and events across local distilleries.

Exploring Beyond Aberdeenshire

Aberdeenshire is a great base for exploring northeast Scotland. Nearby destinations like Speyside, famous for its whisky trails, and the Moray Coast, known for its beaches and dolphin-watching, are well worth a day trip. The city of Aberdeen itself offers attractions like Marischal College, Aberdeen Art Gallery, and Union Street’s shops and restaurants. To the south, Royal Deeside provides access to Balmoral Castle, more hiking trails, and the historic villages of Ballater and Braemar.