Aberdeenshire

Aberdeenshire stretches from the misty peaks of the Cairngorms to the busy North Sea Coast and the city of Aberdeen. With everything from lush countryside and sandy beaches to impressive castles and whisky distilleries, this is the ideal region to experience Scotland at its very best. Discover the ‘Granite City’ of Aberdeen, a destination steeped in medieval and Victorian history revitalised by the North Sea oil and gas industry. Hop on to Scotland’s ‘Castle Trail’ and see a selection of Aberdeenshire's many castles. Visit dramatic clifftop ruins and elegant Highland estates and be transported to a lost age of aristocratic splendour and military intrigue. Aberdeenshire is also the perfect place to play a round of golf. With over 50 courses in the region, including Royal Aberdeen, the sixth oldest golf club in the world, travellers are spoilt for choice.

Aberdeenshire Landmarks

For a royal treat pay a visit to Balmoral Castle, the Scottish home of the Royal Family since the middle of the 19th century. Situated in gorgeous countryside in the Royal Deeside area, this Category A listed building is a wonderful sight. Discover the truly spectacular Dunnottar Castle standing on a clifftop at the edge of Aberdeenshire coast. Used in the filming of several big budget movies this landmark will have you reaching for your camera. Golfers will enjoy working their way down Aberdeen’s golf coast playing courses like Royal Aberdeen, Fraserburgh, Stonehaven and the Trump International Golf Links. Head for The Cairngorms National Park to experience one of the UK’s best loved natural spectacles.

Aberdeenshire Museums and Galleries

Aberdeenshire has some fabulous museums and galleries - many of which document the region’s enduring relationship with the land and sea. The Aberdeenshire Farming Museum near Peterhead tells the story of Aberdeenshire’s famous farming past. Find out the story behind the world famous Aberdeen Angus and see the reconstructed interiors of traditional farming buildings. Take a trip to the Aberdeen Maritime Museum in Aberdeen where visitors have access to a fascinating programme of exhibitions and displays; learn about traditional fishing techniques as well as how to park your ship in the harbour.

Aberdeenshire Shopping, Restaurants and Nightlife

Shopping in Aberdeenshire is full of variety. For big name brands and designer luxuries visit the renowned shopping centres of Aberdeen: Bon Accord, Union Square and Trinity Shopping Centre. For quirkier buys and unique souvenirs explore the small coastal towns of Aberdeenshire where you’ll find independent shops selling everything from antiques and jewellery to homemade biscuits and sweets. For an unforgettable meal head for the coast where fresh seafood is always on the menu. If you’re partial to a steak don’t forget to order a prime cut of delicious Aberdeen Angus Beef. Nightlife in Aberdeenshire ranges from intimate rural pubs to the busy nightclubs and live music venues of Aberdeen.

The Gordon Highlanders Museum

One of Aberdeenshire's most popular attractions, this museum in the west end of Aberdeen tells the story of one of the British Army’s most illustrious regiments. Winston Churchill called them the ‘finest regiment in the world’ and their incredible 200 year story will delight Scottish history enthusiasts.