Aberdeen's Ancient Heritage and Folklore Tour

Departs: Sat at 09:00 (Bookings must be made in advance)

From: The Wallace Monument in front of His Majesty's Theatre on Rosemount Street.

Duration: 8 hours

We start our journey through history with a visit to Barry Hill fort. Hillfort structures that are dotted around Aberdeenshire and are built on higher ground, many would have included wooden or stone enclosures to create a settlement where people lived and worked. These early communities were found Scotland hundreds of years ago and formed the early Aberdeenshire towns and villages. There are several hill forts around the region, of which only foundations remain. But through archaeological studies, we are learning more every year about how the people of these communities lived. Many of the hill forts are challenging to access, but Barra is one of the few we can visit relatively easily.

During our visit, we will walk along the earthworks and foundations, and begin to get a sense of how these communities were formed and get a feel for what life would be like living on these hills.

*To visit the site, we will be walking through fields and off road paths.

We start with a short walk up a low hill, from where we see the ruins of Dunnideer Castle. The castle was a tower house located near the village of Insch. It was built c. 1260 partially from the remains of an existing vitrified hill fort in the same location. The hillfort is composed of at least five concentric rings of defences. The defences are easily visible from below and from atop the hill, as a series of high banks and ditches.

Standing a short distance away from from the Hillfort are the remaining stones of Dunnideer Stone Circle. They now add to the dramatic location and atmosphere of the surroundings.

The area around the village of Rhynie was a Pictish stronghold for the northeast of Scotland. The Tap O'Noth, has Scotland’s largest hillfort, the hilltop settlement that at its height, may have rivalled the largest known post-Roman settlements in Europe. Researchers believe to be a community with over 5,000 residents!

There is a collection of Pictish carved stones, and we will discover more about their symbols, carvings, and meanings of the stones. A lone standing stone, the Crawstane was once at the centre of a settlement which had trade across the Mediterranean and great wealth. We will learn about the King of the Scots and how he changed the cultural landscape of Scotland which ultimately led to the downfall of the Picts.

St. Mary's of Auchindoir is a historic church ruin located near Rhynie in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, dating back to the early 13th century. Known for its fine example of Norman architecture, the church is particularly admired for its intricate arched doorway, which features original carvings that have stood the test of time. Inside, you'll find remnants of medieval stonework and a unique sacrament house from the late 15th century. Although now roofless, St. Mary’s offers a peaceful atmosphere and a fascinating glimpse into the medieval ecclesiastical heritage of the region, set against the scenic beauty of rural Aberdeenshire.

We will stop at the village of Alford for some lunch and refreshments. Alford is a picturesque village in Aberdeenshire, known for its blend of rich history and scenic landscapes. Alford is also celebrated as the birthplace of the Aberdeen Angus cattle breed, making it a key spot for those interested in Scotland’s agricultural heritage.

Easter Aquhorthies Stone Circle, located near Inverurie in Aberdeenshire, is one of Scotland's best-preserved recumbent stone circles, dating back over 4,000 years to the late Neolithic or early Bronze Age. This ancient monument consists of a distinctive recumbent stone flanked by two tall standing stones, with a nearly perfect ring of smaller stones encircling them. The recumbent stone circles of Aberdeenshire are unique, believed to have held spiritual or ceremonial significance, possibly connected to lunar cycles or seasonal events. Easter Aquhorthies is easily accessible and surrounded by scenic countryside, offering a peaceful glimpse into Scotland’s ancient past.

The Dyce Symbol Stones are two remarkable Pictish stones located in the old churchyard of St. Fergus’ Chapel in Dyce, near Aberdeen. Dating back to around the 6th to 8th centuries, these stones feature intricate carvings that are characteristic of Pictish artistry, including symbols such as a mirror and comb, a double-disc, a crescent, and unique animal figures. One of the stones also displays a Christian cross, marking a fascinating blend of Pictish and early Christian symbolism. These stones are an important part of Scotland’s ancient heritage, offering a glimpse into the enigmatic culture of the Picts and their distinctive art and beliefs.