Discover the North-east of Scotland this Summer
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are made for summer exploring.
From dramatic clifftop castles and centuries-old watermills to open-air swimming and hands-on science, this is a region that rewards curiosity at every turn.
Whether you're planning a family day out, looking for your next great foodie experience, or want to step into the stories that shaped this corner of Scotland, here's your guide to making the most of the North-east this season.
Family days out
The North-east has no shortage of ways to keep you entertained, whatever the weather.
- Aberdeen Science Centre: This summer at Aberdeen Science Centre is bigger, bolder and more exciting than ever. June brings the Science of Sport, where visitors can explore how the human body moves and performs in fun, hands-on ways. July and August see the Summer Science Show arrive, full of flashes, bangs and jaw-dropping moments. Creative workshops, a daily immersive VR experience and a dedicated Under 6 zone with stories and make-and-take activities make this an unmissable season of discovery for families.
- Stonehaven Open Air Swimming Pool: One of Scotland's most beloved summer institutions, Stonehaven's heated open-air pool is a true North-east treasure. With a water chute, paddling pool, inflatable obstacle course, aqua Zumba classes, live music on Saturday afternoons and midnight swims on Wednesday evenings during peak season, there's something for everyone. No booking required - simply turn up and dive in.
- FastLane Indoor Raceway: When the weather calls for something indoors, Aberdeen's only indoor go-karting track delivers. FastLane's 400m circuit features tight hairpins, fast straights and technical chicanes, with a full timing system so you can track every lap. Unique dual karts allow a passenger aged 5 or above to ride alongside the driver, making it a brilliant, shared experience for parents and kids alike.
- Grampian Transport Museum: Based in Alford, this award-winning independent charity brings transport's evolving histories, nostalgic tales and quirkiest innovations to life across eras, countries and cultures. With climb-aboard exhibits, child-friendly trails, an outdoor play area and a tearoom with freshly prepared snacks, it's a day out that sparks conversation for all ages. Events, skills workshops and community days run throughout the year too.
Food and drink
From harbourside seafood to authentic Scottish dining, the North-east's food scene is one to savour.
- Tarragon: With two locations in Aberdeen, Tarragon has earned a loyal following for its authentic Scottish cuisine, drawing on the finest local produce to create menus that feel both rooted and refined. Whether you're stopping in for lunch or settling in for an evening meal, it's a genuine taste of the North-east on a plate.
- The Lobster Shop, Stonehaven: Head to the Fish Pier in Stonehaven and you'll find the Lobster Shop's food trailer serving up the freshest seafood in a setting that doesn't get more authentically North-east than this. A must for anyone visiting the coast this summer.
- Fettercairn Distillery: With 200 years of history and a deep commitment to local sourcing, Fettercairn is one of Scotland's most characterful distilleries to visit. Water drawn from the Cairngorm mountains, barley from local farmers and casks milled by a nearby sawmill all speak to a genuine connection with the land. Visitors can tour the distillery, hand-fill their own unique bottle and pick-up limited-edition expressions available nowhere else.
History and heritage
Scratch the surface of the North-east and you'll find layer upon layer of extraordinary history.
- Dunnottar Castle: Few sights in Scotland stop you in your tracks quite like Dunnottar. Perched dramatically on a clifftop above the North Sea, this ruined fortress has witnessed centuries of Scottish history and remains one of the most photographed and visited landmarks in the country. Full visitor information, opening times and ticket details are available on the website.
- Mill of Benholm: This working watermill, over 300 years old, sits within 14 acres of beautiful grounds taking in mill pond, streams, orchard, gardens and ancient woodland. A peaceful and special corner of the North-east, open Wednesdays to Sundays. The Café at the Mill, housed in the Miller's House dating from 1711, serves patisserie, cakes and light lunches, making it a lovely spot to round off your visit.
Where to stay
A summer of exploring deserves a great base to come back to.
- Norwood Hall: Set in its own grounds on the edge of Aberdeen, Norwood Hall offers a countryside feel without straying far from the city. This historic hotel is well placed for day trips to Royal Deeside, Banchory, Inverurie and Dundee, with complimentary parking on site. Timeless in character and relaxed in atmosphere, it's an ideal retreat between adventures.
From clifftop castles to open-air pools, distillery tours to karting tracks, the North-east this summer is full of unique experiences waiting to be discovered.
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