THINGS TO DO

Aberdeenshire offers an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences—from the rugged mountains of the Cairngorm National Park to 165 miles of unspoilt coastline. It’s a region rich in heritage, beauty, and adventure. A great starting point for planning your trip is www.visitabdn.com

With 263 castles in the region, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Don’t miss the dramatic Dunnottar Castle at Stonehaven—said to have inspired Hamlet—or the romantic Tolquhon Castle near Tarves. Huntly Castle once sheltered our own King Robert the Bruce, while Slains Castle fired Bram Stoker’s imagination for Dracula. Crathes Castle is home to the legendary ghost of the Green Lady, and of course, no list would be complete without Balmoral Castle, the summer residence of the Royal Family—truly the jewel in Aberdeenshire’s crown.

Treat yourself to a Balmoral Safari Tour, where you’ll explore the glens, rivers, wildlife and flora in a Land Rover with an expert guide. Availability is very limited, so book early! Alternatively, take the scenic North East 250 drive, winding through coastal villages, hamlets, and ever-changing landscapes.

Aberdeenshire is packed with events for all ages. Experience the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival at Portsoy celebrating the region’s fishing heritage, or take in history at Fraserburgh Castle & Lighthouse and the hauntingly atmospheric Victorian Peterhead Prison.

From June to September, you’ll find 14 Highland Games across the region. The Braemar Gathering is the most famous, often attended by the Royal Family, but you can also enjoy events in Aberdeen, Ballater, Stonehaven, and at Drumtochty Castle.

If you love classic cars, don’t miss the Crathes Classic Car Event, the Grampian Transport Museum and racetrack in Alford, or the spectacular Glamis Car Extravaganza—a personal favourite!

Just 9.5 miles from the farmhouse is the beautiful Bennachie Centre, a perfect starting point for walks. Explore the 41-mile Deeside Way on foot or by bike, or take on thrilling enduro trails at Hill of Fare, Pitfichie, and Drumtochty. Enjoy nature’s drama at Balmedie Beach, Bullers of Buchan, and Cruden Bay.

There’s plenty to keep the little ones happy, including Hoodles at Oldmeldrum, Wynford Farm at Westhill, and all the fun of swings and roundabouts at Hazlehead Park. Don’t miss the “wee zoo” and magic of The Den & The Glen in Maryculter.

For a slower pace, enjoy peaceful walks through the Duthie Park Winter Gardens or the beautiful Johnston Gardens. You might also enjoy a boat trip to spot dolphins in Aberdeen Harbour, or a visit to the newly renovated Aberdeen Art Gallery and the Maritime Museum, where you can dive into the rich history of the North Sea.

With 55 golf courses across Aberdeenshire, you’re never far from a game. Fantastic local courses include Cruden Bay GC, Balbithan GC, Kemnay GC, Hawkshill at Newmachar, Stonehaven GC, and Duff House Royal GC. There’s something for every level of golfer.

No trip to Aberdeenshire is complete without a taste of whisky. The region is home to six distilleries, each offering unique flavours. Standouts include Glen Garioch, GlenDronach, and Royal Lochnagar, right next door to Balmoral Castle. For a premium experience, a visit to the iconic Macallan Distillery in Speyside is an absolute must.