10 things to rediscover in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire
10 July 2020
It’s time to rediscover the fairy-tale castle grounds, majestic mountains, impressive coastlines and city sightseeing that are all on your doorstep! Here are 10 things you’ve got to rediscover in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire:
1. Visit fairy-tale castle grounds and gardens
Did you know that Dunnottar Castle was once the guardian of the Scottish crown jewels or that Craigievar Castle is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle? At Drum Castle a Jacobite soldier was hidden from the Redcoats and ghosts are said to wander at Crathes. Rediscover these enchanting fairy-tale castle gardens and grounds now.
2. Discover impressive coastline
Breathe in the salty sea air as you embark on the Aberdeenshire coastal trail. Explore picturesque fishing villages that hug the coastline overlooking the Moray Firth like Crovie, Gardenstown and Pennan. Or enjoy walks along golden beaches that stretch for miles!
3. See the city in a new light
Meander through the cobbled streets of Old Aberdeen and the colourful outhouses of Fittie* to be transported back in time. Rediscover sparkling architecture and keep your eyes peeled for the colourful Nuart Aberdeen street art decorating the centre of The Granite City. Unwind in the city centre with a trip to the beach or Johnston Garden where an oasis of tranquillity awaits.
*Please remember that Fittie is a small residential community. Please respect the privacy of residents when you visit.
4. Make a night of it
A staycation has never been so popular. Glamp under the stars at self-catering countryside retreats such as Glen Dye Cabins & Cottages or Boutique Farm Bothies. Or perhaps you prefer to be at one with nature with a touch of local luxury overlooking the mouth of the estuary where a colony of seals sunbath on the sands at Tahuna Bothies.
5. Sample world-class food and drink
It doesn’t get much fresher than this. Taste the freshest catch straight off the boat at The Seafood Bothy in Stonehaven. Or enjoy quality Aberdeen Angus Beef raised in the rolling countryside. Soak in the sunshine with some alfresco dining in the city centre beer gardens and for dessert check out Mackie’s 19.2.
6. Uncover local history
Unearth local heritage and develop a new understanding for the region as it appeared to your ancestors. Learn about the area’s close connection with the sea at Aberdeen Maritime Museum. Find yourself fascinated by the harrowing and heroic tales at Peterhead Prison Museum or follow in the footsteps of the Gordon Highlanders Regiment through the trenches.
7. Visit film famous locations
Stand in Fettercairn square where Chris and Ewan once stood in Sunset Song, visit the spectacular clifftop ruin where Victor Frankenstein once called home or visit the Queen Mother’s House in The Crown.
8. Go on a road trip
Remind yourself of the true majesty of our Royal Deeside, including popular staycation spots of Ballater and Braemar. For a fresh new take, hop on the North East 250 for a road trip around Royal Deeside, through the Cairngorms National Park and along our breath-taking coastline.
9. Experience the great outdoors
Take to the hills as you climb Bennachie, a favourite for many locals, or for the more adventurous among us try your hand at munro bagging. For those who prefer a leisurely stroll, embark on a portion of The Deeside Way.
10. Try something new
Take to the sea as you rediscover exhilarating and refreshing adventure activities. Watch the sunrise over the horizon on a paddleboard or feel the wind whip past you as you cruise down the hillside on your mountain bike.
For more information about rediscovering your Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire go to www.visitabdn.com/rediscover .