Some of my favourite places to visit.

“I was born and brought up in Aberdeen and have returned to my roots after many fulfilling and adventure-filled years working elsewere at home and abroad.  I know what it feels like to be in a new place and to benefit from the advice and suggestions, and above of the friendship, of local people.  It’s my hope that you get the most from your experience in Aberdeen and the surrounds and, for that reason, I would like to mention a few of my favourite spots.  Whether you rely on public transport or have a car, whether you’re on a tight budget or otherwise, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”

Castles

Aberdeenshire is home to the famous ‘Castle Trail’ – essentially a group of National Trust-owned castles set in beautiful grounds.  My favourite of all of these castles would have to be Crathes Castle between Drumoak and Banchory.  The forested grounds are a popular walking spot and the castle itself is well worth a visit. 

You cannot visit the North-East of Scotland without a visit to Dunnottar Castle – a majestic ruin which sits on a rocky perch off the coast of Stonehaven.  I like to park in Stonehaven and walk up to the castle, enjoying it from afar as well as close-up.  It’s truly a beautiful and impressive sight – worth saving for a sunny day!  Afterwards, head back to Stonehaven for fish and chips at The Bay and ice cream at Aunty Bettys (both Beach Road).

Walking Spots

I’m a big fan of the outdoors and love spending time walking in Royal Deeside.  It’s a beautiful area, home to Balmoral Castle, magnificent rolling hills and the River Dee.  If you prefer short walks, I would recommend Scolty Hill (Banchory) or Loch Kinord / Burn O’Vat (just outside Aboyne).  If longer walks are more to your liking, I would suggest Loch Muick or the Glen Tanar Estate.  For those who prefer to stay local, the Old Railway Line (extending from Duthie Park all the way to Ballater) is well worth trying.  It’s very popular with walkers and cyclists alike and affords beautiful views and picnic stops.

Royal Deeside

For those who are keen to explore further afield, I’d recommend a drive up Royal Deeside through Aboyne, Ballater and finishing in Braemar.  The scenery is beautiful and each little town has a number of coffee shops and eateries. Braemar is a personal favourite of mine as it feels like another world compared to Aberdeen city centre. Definitely worth the drive!

Coffee Shops

If, like me, you’re a coffee fan, I have a number of suggestions both in and outside the city.  City dwellers may like to consider ‘Café Cognito’ which does great coffee and homemade cakes and scones.  You can even sit outside which is a rare thing in a coffee shop in Aberdeen!  For those who are venturing outside the city, I’d heartily recommend The Mains of Drum (near Drumoak) and Banchory Lodge Hotel which not only offers great food and drink but is also perfectly located on the banks of the River Dee.

Running Events

I enjoy running and, along with many other fellow runners, use the The Old Railway Line – it’s fairly flat and sheltered and offers some beautiful views of the Dee Valley.  For those keen to participate in running events, I’d highly recommend Run Balmoral which has been called ‘Scotland’s most scenic 5K’.  Both the 5K and 10K courses take runners through the Royal Estate and past Balmoral Castle on the way to the finish line.  It’s certainly the most beautiful location I have run in and worth the hour’s journey from Aberdeen.

St Andrews

A day trip to St Andrews – beautiful seaside town home to Scotland’s oldest university and the world-famous Old Course

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

A weekend exploring the delights of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs – lochs, hills and all things quintessentially Scottish!