Formartine & Buchan
Jump to another place...
Jump to another place...
Explore Formartine and Buchan
From rolling farmland and historic market towns to peaceful riverside paths and rural landscapes, the Formartine and Buchan region offers a rich and varied countryside experience in the heart of Aberdeenshire.
Explore welcoming towns such as Turriff, Fyvie, Oldmeldrum, Ellon, Mintlaw and Maud, each with their own character, history and local stories to discover. From fairytale castles and whisky heritage to country parks, scenic walks and local food and drink, this is an area made for relaxed exploration and authentic rural experiences.
Things to do and attractions
Formartine and Buchan offers a wide range of attractions, from historic estates and gardens to coastal experiences, family-friendly activities and countryside adventures.
Ellon
Ellon is a lively riverside town on the banks of the River Ythan, offering a great mix of outdoor experiences and independent food and drink. Explore the beautiful Pitmedden Garden, wander nearby Collieston Beach, or experience rural life up close with Aberdeenshire Sheepdogs. Just a short drive away, Haddo House & Country Park offers grand estate walks and heritage, while Dogtap Ellon provides a relaxed, social space to eat and unwind.
For food and drink, Ellon is home to independent favourites including Murly Tuck, Coffee Apothecary, and The Chocolate Bar, each offering a strong local flavour and welcoming atmosphere.
Turriff
Turriff is a traditional market town with deep agricultural roots and a strong sense of heritage. Visit nearby Fyvie Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic baronial castles, or explore countryside experiences at Deveronside Fishings and Waulkmill Menagerie, a family-friendly animal attraction.
Close by, Delgatie Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, along with its well-known homemade scones served in a charming historic setting.
Oldmeldrum
Oldmeldrum blends whisky heritage with outdoor adventure and rural hospitality. Discover Glen Garioch Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest working distilleries, or enjoy family fun at Lochter Activity Centre, offering a range of outdoor activities.
For a countryside stay or dining experience, Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course provides a luxurious rural retreat, while nearby Barra Berries offers seasonal fruit picking and family-friendly experiences.
Mintlaw and Maud
Mintlaw and Maud are surrounded by farmland, heritage and countryside attractions. Explore Aden Country Park, home to woodland walks, a museum and family activities, or discover local history at the Aberdeenshire Farming Museum and Maud Railway Museum.
For guided experiences, A Path Less Known offers walking tours that reveal hidden stories and landscapes across the area.
Food and drink options in the area include local cafés and rural stops ideal for refuelling while exploring the countryside.
Events In Formartine & Buchan
Start Date
End Date
- Countryside
- |
- Arts & Culture
Formartine Youth Panto Presents: Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs! - Fyvie Primary School
Date(s): 10 Dec - 12 Dec 2026
- Countryside
- |
- Arts & Culture
Northern Passions: Schumann & Grieg - Chamber Meets Concerto - Haddo House
Date(s): 19th Sept 2026
- Countryside
- |
- Arts & Culture
The Three Musketeers at Ellon Castle Gardens - Ellon Castle Gardens
Date(s): 25th Aug 2026
- Countryside
- |
- Arts & Culture
Scottish Country Dance at Haddo House Hall - Haddo House
Date(s): 23rd Aug 2026
Businesses In Formartine & Buchan
- Countryside
- |
- Family Friendly
Aden Country Park
- Countryside
- |
- Arts & Culture
Aberdeenshire Farming Museum
- Countryside
- |
- Family Friendly
Clochforbie Yurts
- Countryside
- |
- Family Friendly
Buchan Hotel
- Countryside
- |
- History & Heritage
A Path Less Known
- Countryside
- |
- Eat & Drink
Station Hotel Maud
- Countryside
- |
- Family Friendly
Aberdeenshire Sheepdogs
- Countryside
- |
- History & Heritage
Aikey Brae Stone Circle
Frequently asked questions
- Is Formartine & Buchan worth visiting?
Yes, it offers a great mix of castles, countryside, market towns, family attractions and outdoor experiences across rural Aberdeenshire.
- What can you do in Formartine & Buchan?
Visitors can explore castles, country parks, walking and cycling routes, wildlife spots, distilleries and a range of rural attractions.
- Is Formartine & Buchan family friendly?
Yes, there are plenty of family-friendly activities including country parks, animal attractions, farm experiences, museums and outdoor adventures.
- Is Formartine & Buchan dog friendly?
Yes, many outdoor spaces, walking routes, beaches nearby and country parks are dog friendly. Some attractions may have restrictions, so it’s best to check in advance
- Is Formartine & Buchan accessible?
Some attractions and countryside sites offer accessible paths and facilities, including country parks and visitor centres. Accessibility varies by location, so checking ahead is recommended.
- Are there castles in Formartine & Buchan?
Yes, highlights include Fyvie Castle and Delgatie Castle, along with several historic estates and heritage sites.
- Can you walk or cycle in Formartine & Buchan?
Yes, there are many walking and cycling routes, including the Formartine & Buchan Way and trails through countryside, river valleys and country parks.
Subscribe for insider tips
Sign up for travel inspiration, upcoming events, and insider tips from the region’s official tourism organisation.
