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Your Northern Nights escape awaits
Experience the magic of the North-east
When winter settles over Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, the region transforms into a place of beauty, with dark starry skies, crackling firesides and unforgettable experiences. This year’s Northern Nights campaign invites you to escape the ordinary and discover a winter break where nature, culture, food and adventure come together in one breathtaking corner of Scotland.
Whether you're planning a family getaway, a couples’ retreat or a solo escape, the North-east welcomes you with open arms and endless ways to make winter truly wonderful.
Experience our dark skies
Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire offer some of Scotland’s best spots for stargazing, from rugged coastlines to quiet countryside retreats. With luck, you may even catch the Northern Lights!
Top dark-sky spots include:
- Banff - big open skies and coastal viewpoints perfect for stargazing.
- Balmedie beach - sweeping sands and minimal light pollution for crisp, clear nights.
- Torry Battery and Greyhope Bay - a stunning vantage point over the North Sea
Wrap up warm, bring a thermos and let the night sky do the rest, for more top spots to catch the Northern Lights read this latest blog.
Cosy family-friendly winter experiences
Winter adventures in the North-east aren’t just about the stars. Families will find countless ways to fill their days with laughter, exploration and festive spirit.
Must-do winter experiences:
- Warm up with indoor attractions across Aberdeen, from the Maritime Museum and Aberdeen Art Gallery to interactive fun at Aberdeen Science Centre.
- Visit local festive trails and winter gardens, from the twinkling David Welch Winter Gardens in Aberdeen to the enchanting Crathes Castle trails, perfect for exploring with the whole family
- Discover castles dusted with frost from Drum Castle to the iconic Dunnottar, winter brings a fairytale charm to every turret and stone wall.
- Explore sandy beaches and forest walks peaceful, scenic and perfect for little adventurers with energy to spare.
Local food and drink to warm the soul
Winter in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire is a season of flavour, from award-winning restaurants to rustic pubs and farm-to-table gems, the region’s food scene shines at this time of year.
Treat yourself to:
- Freshly-caught seafood from the North Sea, served in stylish bistros or harbour-side eateries.
- Craft beer and local gin, brewed and distilled right here in the region.
- Hearty, seasonal menus that celebrate local produce, think warming soups, venison, root veg and indulgent desserts.
- Artisan cafés and bakeries, the perfect stop after a bracing beach walk.
Explore all food and drink options across the region.
Escape to cosy stays across the region
From countryside lodges with log fires to coastal hotels with sweeping sea views, winter is the perfect time to book a break in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
Choose from:
- Luxury spa hotels for the ultimate restorative escape
- Charming inns and boutique hotels full of character
- Family-friendly stays close to attractions and walking routes
- Remote cabins and countryside retreats ideal for stargazing and switching off
Wherever you stay, you’ll be perfectly placed to explore the region’s Northern Nights magic.
Winter adventures waiting for you
Looking for more ways to make the most of your break?
- Wildlife watching from seals to red deer and soaring birds of prey
- Coastal road trips dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and sweeping sandy beaches
- Shopping in Aberdeen from independent makers to festive markets
- Festive events and winter attractions throughout December and beyond
Your Northern Nights winter awaits
This winter, lose yourself in the beauty, warmth and wonder of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. With unforgettable experiences for the whole family, incredible food and drink and some of the darkest skies in the UK, there's no better time to plan your winter escape.
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