Dunnottar Castle
Aberdeenshire
Located on the north-east coast of Scotland, Aberdeenshire is the area around Aberdeen city. It stretches from the Banffshire coast in the north all the way around to St Cyrus National Nature Reserve in the east, featuring beautiful coastlines, pretty seaside towns, rugged cliffs and sandy bays. It also has some incredible mountains and farmland as it runs towards the Cairngorms National Park.
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Craigievar Castle
Craigievar Castle Re-opens
Craigievar Castle re-opens its doors after renovation. The castle that's said to have inspired Walt Disney has had its famous pink colour restored to its full glory. Admire the riot of turrets, gargoyles and high corbelling work of this iconic Scottish castle, and enjoy the fine grounds and waymarked trails surrounding it.
Things to do in Aberdeenshire
Aberdeenshire has some great activities and attractions including castles, walks, mountain biking and more.
Great outdoors
From scaling the heights of Ben Macdui to paddle-boarding off the coast or an e-bike ride in the valley, you’re spoiled for choice in Aberdeenshire.
History & Heritage
Find ancient sites and symbols, mysterious standing stones, towering granite walls and legendary castles in Aberdeenshire.
Adventure activities
From mountain bike trails and Munro Bagging, to paddleboarding and skiing, find your outdoor adventure in Aberdeenshire.
Inspiration for Aberdeenshire breaks
Glen Dye Cabins and Cottages
© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale
Places to stay
Enjoy a self-catering break out in the countryside, or book a B&B by the coast. Search for unusual accommodation such as a courtyard cottage or bothy, or relax in a 5-star hotel amongst the trees.
The Watchers at Corgarff
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Tours, Routes & Trails
Hire an electric car for a slow road trip of Aberdeenshire, taking in the castles, distilleries and Royal attractions. Or book a tour to uncover the wildlife and incredible scenery.
Slains Castle
© VisitAberdeenshire
What is Aberdeenshire known for?
Aberdeenshire boasts no fewer than 300 castles, ruins and stately homes, more than 50 classic, unspoilt golf courses, and a large number of whisky distilleries.
You'll also hear the dialect of Doric while in this area - learn some words and phrases before you go.
Unique Experiences
Aberdeenshire hosts one of the most famous Highland games in the world. It's also home to part of the UK’s largest National Park and one of the best places to spot dolphins.
Braemar Gathering
Don't miss the Braemar Gathering, one of the most famous games in the world and is attended each year by members of the Royal family.
Cairngorms National Park
The Cairngorms National Park has more mountains, forests, rivers, lochs, wildlife, friendly villages and distilleries than you can possibly imagine.
Spotting wildlife in Aberdeenshire
Aberdeenshire creates the perfect spot for catching a glimpse of wildlife in its natural habitat.
What's on in Aberdeenshire
Duff House
© North East 250 / Damian Shields
Events
From amazing musical shows and spectacular festivals to fascinating exhibitions and virtual readings, there is always lots of things to do in Aberdeenshire.
Places to eat in Aberdeenshire
The Davron Hotel
© Discover Fraserburgh / Damian Shields
Food & Drink
Enjoy local food and drink experiences in Aberdeenshire, including Aberdeen Angus Beef, fresh seafood, famous whisky and more.
A tip from your local expert
Aberdeen Maritime Museum exterior photograph
Best Coffee Shops to Try in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire
Discover some of the best coffee shops in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire as recommended by a local!
Dreamy Goat
Dreamy Goat Coffee Co. in Inverurie serve up coffee from the UK’s best roasteries alongside a fully vegetarian all-day brunch menu.
Tàrmachan
With a focus on delicious artisan coffee and local produce, this coffee shop in Crathie is tucked away in the Cairngorms, right off the A93.
The Coffee Apothecary
In the more secluded areas of Aberdeenshire, you’ll find The Coffee Apothecary, offering fresh bakes and hearty meals alongside their artisan coffee.
Cairn Coffee Hut
Located at Aberdeen Beach in a little black horse-box, it’s not quite a coffee shop but it's perfectly positioned for a little mid-beach walk pause.
Foodstory
A vegetarian eatery with several locations across Aberdeen that serves up speciality coffee, food and the best cinnamon buns in town!
Cult of Coffee
Cult of Coffee in Aberdeen don't just serve the best speciality coffee and delicious baking, they also have the best dark hot chocolate in the city.
Aberdeen Art Gallery and War Memorial, Aberdeen
© Visit Aberdeenshire / Damian Shields
Accessible Holidays in Aberdeenshire
Aberdeenshire offer a wide range of accessible holidays with wheelchair-friendly accommodation, attractions and facilities. We’ve teamed up with AccessAble to create a handy accessible guide to help plan your holiday to Scotland, so it’s easy to check if it suits your needs.
