48 Hours of Culture, Charm and Castle Tales in Northern Aberdeenshire

Step back in time as you walk through 125 years of turbulent history. Once Scotland’s toughest prison the museum highlights the work of the brave personnel that served between 1888-2013. You will walk the halls and grounds experiencing what life as an inmate was like with the help of visual and audio guides. This immersive and exciting museum is unique in its kind and is an experience for the whole family. Bringing young children? Why not ask the admissions team for a copy of their “Hunt the teddy bear” game. Finish your trip to the museum with a visit to the Refuge Cafe, enjoy an array of soups, sandwiches and toasties, as well as delicous teas and coffees to fuel for the rest of your day.

Said to be the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s infamous tale, Dracula, this beloved castle is a must visit. Found just off the coast of Cruden Bay, visitors can wander the ruins and remains of a once dramatic fortress. With stunning 360 ° vistas of Aberdeenshire’s coastline, it’s the perfect exploration. Visitors should be responsible when visiting as the castle is located close to cliff edges. Keep to the surrounding paths and don’t take any unnecessary risks.

For those seeking traditional charm, the Kilmarnock Arms Hotel in nearby Cruden Bay serves up seasonal, locally sourced dishes, from hearty steak pies to classic fish and chips, before you unwind with a nightcap in the lively Killie Bar, where good company is always on tap.

For a truly unique getaway, Buchanness Lighthouse Holidays offers beautifully renovated lighthouse keepers cottages nestled at the base of a working lighthouse. With four-star comfort, sweeping views of the endless coastline and the invigorating scent of fresh sea air, this hidden gem in Peterhead is the ideal place to rest your head and experience life by the light of the coast.

With delicious breakfast and brunch options Symposium Coffee House is the perfect place to start your day. From classic full Scottish breakfasts to the fluffiest of pancakes, savoury or sweet you are in for a real treat.

Situated just off the stunning Buchan coast, this 16th century castle was built by the Frasers of Philorth. in 1787, it was altered to contain the first lighthouse built by the Northern Lighthouse Board. Now home to the fascinating Museum of Scottish Lighthouses. Visitors can take tours of the castle to learn about its intriguing and unique transformation and heritage along with unique, immersive displays throughout the museum that bring the history to life.

Worked up an appetite with all your exploring? Head to its in-house cafe where delicious food and glorious views are guarenteed.

The dramatic ruins of Findlater Castle are perched on a tiny peninsula which sticks out into the North Sea, with a sheer drop of more than fifty feet to the rocks and sea below. With its picturesque setting and breathtaking surrounding areas it’s the perfect afternoon activity. However, take care when visiting due to its dangerous location.

End the day with a visit to The Captain’s Table, a family run seafood restaurant which brings its guests tantalising local seafood straight from the Fraserburgh fish market. From langoustine and lobster to haddock and halibut, its seasonal menus are the dream way to end a trip in Aberdeenshire.

After a busy day of exploring, it’s time to sit back and relax in tranquility at Seafront Cottages. Guests can choose from a range of unique accommodation options, including the luxury glamping eco pod, Door to the Shore, featured on Channel 4’s Britain’s Best Beach Huts 2023. With its modern design, outdoor seating and firepit, it’s the perfect spot to admire the sea views as the evening sets in.

Need more space? Stay in the 1600s fisherman’s cottage, Pew with a View, which sleeps four. With floor-to-ceiling windows and a decked garden area, visitors can unwind while listening to the soothing sounds of the crashing waves.

During your stay, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including mink whales and seals. If you’re really lucky, you might even catch a dazzling display of the Northern Lights, a magical end to your coastal adventure.