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Top cities between Nairn and Stonehaven
Best stops along Nairn to Stonehaven drive
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32 Best Stops Between Nairn and Stonehaven

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedApr 7, 2023

How long is the drive from Nairn to Stonehaven?

The direct drive from Nairn to Stonehaven is 98.8 mi (159 km), and should have a drive time of 2 hrs 10 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Nairn to Stonehaven, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Aberdeen and Elgin, as well as top places to visit like RSPB Scotland Loch Garten Nature Centre and Loch Morlich, or the ever-popular Morayvia.

Visiting Nairn or Stonehaven? See our Nairn Trip Planner and our Stonehaven Trip Planner.
98.8 mi
Total Distance
2 hrs 10 mins
Drive Time
32 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top cities between Nairn and Stonehaven

The top cities between Nairn and Stonehaven are Aberdeen and Elgin. Aberdeen is the most popular city on the route. It's 2 hours from Nairn and less than an hour from Stonehaven.
1

Elgin

Elgin, a historic town in Moray, Scotland, is known for its rich heritage and scenic beauty. Situated on the North Coast of Scotland, Elgin serves as the administrative and commercial hub of Moray. The town's origins date back to the early medieval period and it has been a bustling center for centuries. Visitors can explore remnants of its history at sites like the long-gone castle and the majestic Elgin Cathedral, which dates back to 1224.
17% as popular as Aberdeen
0 minutes off the main route, 24% of way to Stonehaven
2

Aberdeen

Aberdeen, also known as the Granite City, is a vibrant port city in northeast Scotland. It's famous for its connection to the offshore petroleum industry and boasts a diverse international population. The city's architecture is characterized by enduring grey-stone buildings, such as the monumental Victorian landmark Marischal College. Aberdeen offers a perfect blend of cosmopolitan vibes, stunning coastlines, and rich culture.
Most popular city on this route
7 minutes off the main route, 86% of way to Stonehaven

Best stops along Nairn to Stonehaven drive

The top stops along the way from Nairn to Stonehaven (with short detours) are Dunnottar Castle, Glenfiddich Distillery, and Aberdeen Maritime Museum. Other popular stops include Cairngorm Herd, Elgin Cathedral, and Peterhead Prison Museum.
1

Morayvia

Mentioned on 
2 lists 
Temporarily Closed
Museum
Visitor center
Morayvia, located in Kinloss, is a captivating museum dedicated to the aviation history of Moray. The museum boasts an impressive collection of exhibits, including a Nimrod and a Sea King helicopter. What sets Morayvia apart is the knowledgeable and friendly staff who share firsthand experiences and stories with visitors. Guests can climb into cockpits for an immersive experience and explore various aircraft, simulators, engines, and equipment displays.
Out grandkids and I recently had a fantastic time at this hidden gem! It's clear that the entire operation is run by passionate volunteers, and their dedication shines through. For only £8, you get incredible access, with the opportunity to go aboard almost all the aircraft. The wealth of information available is truly impressive, making it a great educational experience for all ages. If you find yourself in the Forres/Kinloss area, please make a point to visit. These volunteers deserve our support, and it's a truly memorable day out. They already want to go back and it's only been 2 days since we visited! Yes that good.
Andy E — Google review
What a wonderful place! The staff are so knowledgeable and helpful and it is so good to be able to climb in to the many cockpits and aircraft on display. I grew up when these aircraft were in service, which was an added bonus. I was pleasantly surprised that my wife, who only came along for the ride, showed and interest and also really enjoyed the day.
Steve W — Google review
Fantastic aerospace museum in Kinloss. Lots of interesting exhibits and aircraft, as well as a fun planetarium, but what really stands out is the enthusiasm of the volunteers. We actually ran out of time to getvround everything, as we spent so long talking to the volunteers, each of whom had great stories to tell. We'll definitely go back again
Matt B — Google review
We took our young grandsons for a visit. We thoroughly enjoyed it. The boys loved it because you can actually get inside some of the aircraft and can meet some very knowledgeable gentleman who actually flew some of the jets. It is in my opinion a wee gem of a place. The boys chatted all day about it. Will definitely visit again.
Joyce E — Google review
It was a surprisingly good experience to visit this wee gem in the Highlands. They have quite a large aviation collection and the staff are super friendly and happy to share their broad knowledge and interesting stories. The best bit is that you can actually get into most planes and helicopters and have a shot of being in the pilots seat.
Matt P — Google review
This place was an absolutely wonderful surprise for me! So many aerial machines in one place. Woow! Plus you can really explore the machines up close and that kept our kids very entertained. To sit in the cockpit of an airplane was a problem they had an unforgettable experience. Thanks for this place.
Zdeněk F — Google review
Great little museum, lots of friendly and informative veterans on hand to discuss and inform visitors. A number of the veterans i spoke to had experience flying / servicing / maintaining the aircraft in the museum.
Craig ( — Google review
I came here on a visit expecting to be disappointed by the lack of exhibits. I COULDN'T HAVE BEEN MORE WRONG. This is a fantastic hidden gem of the Highlands and should be publicised more. I was stunned by the amount of rare aircraft they had in their collection, especially the Valiant, which got to climb inside( this was the highlight of my visit). The volunteers were excellent, and all my questions were answered. They really do know their stuff. I would recommend Morayvia to anyone visiting Scotland
Dylan T — Google review
4.9
(461)
•
5.0
(403)
North Rd, Kinloss, Forres IV36 3YA, United Kingdom
https://www.morayvia.org.uk/
+44 1309 691916
2

RSPB Scotland Loch Garten Nature Centre

Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Excellent place managed to see both male & female Ospreys in the nest. The male brought the female a tasty headless fish to impress her! The staff at the centre were very friendly and knowledgeable. It is well worth a visit at only £5 per person. All walks are free.
Carole H — Google review
Went a couple of times during our holiday. Firstly the welcome from all the staff was exceptional. All the facilities were clean. We overall left feeling slightly disappointed, it felt more like a country park than a nature reserve. Countless people walking dogs off their leads even though there are signs asking you not to. One owner was even allowing their dog to chase the birds. We arrived around 6am one day and there wasn’t a person in sight and the forest was alive with life. We were both shocked by the lack of bird hides, that for us is what this place needs urgently. All in all we had a nice time but it just needs some investment.
Chris B — Google review
There is efficient centre with camera directed as a nest of ospreys. On the way to get there you will see the small birds in the forest. Friendly volunteers giving a lot of information. Wheelchair accessible. At the other side of the centre, there are great walks near the loch.
Steven M — Google review
What a brilliant morning - if you think this is just about ospreys you are missing out! Amazing other birds, brilliant staff who are so enthusiastic and knowledgeable about lots of other topics. We got lucky and found a fungi expert who was brilliant with our mushroom enthusiast 8 year old and showed him loads of amazing fungi (and a dog vomit slime- very unusual and cooler than it sounds!). Really sparked his interest and then we found dozens of cool fungi in the forest. If your kids have any interest in the natural world this is a must.
Ali M — Google review
Lovely place to visit. Highly recommended, Very reasonably priced. The forest walks are lovely. You can park up and do walks at no cost. Entrance fee only payable when visiting rspb centre which I would recommend. Very helpful and knowledgable staff.
Lillian L — Google review
Beautiful lake and forest with different path options depending on the difficulty. The paths and the place in general is really well maintened. 100% recommended
Antonio C — Google review
Excellent place for viewing nesting osprey. They have multiple scopes trained on the nest. All the scopes are set at different heights - there are some at kid height, too. Costs 5 GBP per person to get in. We didn't see any osprey except the one in the picture, but I'm glad we stopped here.
Margaret R — Google review
What a fabulous place. More pics to follow. Just revelling in the nature for now. The two Loch trail (Garten & Mallachie) is a lovely walk (trail)
Mike L — Google review
4.7
(667)
•
4.5
(654)
Loch Garten Nature Centre, Nethy Bridge, PH25 3HA, United Kingdom
https://www.rspb.org.uk/days-out/reserves/loch-garten-abernethy
+44 1479 831476
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3

Loch Morlich

Mentioned on 
15 lists 
Lake
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
Nestled at the base of the Cairngorm Mountains, Loch Morlich is a picturesque freshwater lake renowned for its sandy beaches and scenic trails. The award-winning beach, situated 300m above sea level, offers stunning views and a range of activities including water sports and dining options. Surrounded by the pine forests of Glenmore, this non-tidal lake provides an ideal setting for swimming and outdoor recreation.
Beautiful loch saw the northern lights while there nice sandy beach to. Dense forest that you can explore for days
Ry — Google review
It’s such an amazing view with sandy beaches on the loch edge. Plenty of parking, water sports and fantastic views. Worth a stop for the scenery
Scott W — Google review
A beautiful loch with breathtaking scenery, fresh water and sand. This loch is one of the cleanest and most respected. Its simply Gorgeous 😍. If you visit Loch Morlich please Respect it this is unique you won't be disappointed.
The 6 — Google review
Loch Morlich is a beautiful spot in the Cairngorms with a rare sandy beach, clear waters, and stunning mountain views. Great for kayaking, paddleboarding, walking, or just relaxing. Good facilities nearby and easy parking. A must-visit if you're in the Highlands
Danielle S — Google review
Amazing place! Photographers dream. Doesn’t matter if it is summer or winter, beautiful view. We were walking around the lake. Instagrammable place. Summer time busy. If you are there bring some feed for a ducks.
Barbara O — Google review
This is the highest natural sandy beach in the UK and the water here is absolutely clean and perfect. The water and the loch bed are so clean that it takes any colour of the sky, and so it is crucial coming here on a beautiful day. When the sky is clear, the loch is the bluest blue you'll ever see, it is so surreal. The scenery is to die for and the walk around the loch is enjoyable and memorable with many spots for perfect photographs. At night, it is so dark around the loch you can see all the constellations so clearly. Plenty of parking spots nearby. My most favourite loch in Scotland.
Mohamed A — Google review
We spend most of the day on the trails and then passed Loch Morlich on a way back to Inverness. I am happy we made a stop there. The lake was gorgeous with clean water and sandy beaches. There is a cafe and you can borrow a watersports equipment if you want. Parking was a bit of an issue. We didn't have change so after running around the lake a bit we got a signal reception and could pay it online.
Michal K — Google review
Sandy beach, shallow water (great for little kids). Views of the mountains. What else do you need!
Ian M — Google review
4.8
(258)
•
4.8
(680)
Aviemore, PH22 1QU, UK, USA
4

Cairngorm Herd

Mentioned on 
4 lists 
Nature & Parks
Nature preserve
Nature & Wildlife Areas
The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, located in the Scottish Highlands, is a unique and enchanting experience for nature enthusiasts and families. It is home to Britain's only free-ranging herd of reindeer. Visitors can join daily guided hill trips to interact with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The tour takes you on a scenic journey into the Cairngorm Mountains where you can feed and pet the friendly reindeer.
Second time visiting. It's a wonderful experience. The walk up the hill is short and beautiful, with a bridge crossing quite a big stream. The enthusiasm of the staff is heart warming. Best of all is getting to feed the reindeer where you can feel just how soft their noses are. Definitely book if you are in the area.
Autekre 2 — Google review
Simply amazing. The hike wasn’t that long or hard, and the scenery was stunning. We got to be up close and personal with a ton of reindeer. My whole group enjoyed feeding them and taking a TON of pictures. Kate and Lottie were informative and answered all of the questions we had about the reindeer. I definitely recommend booking a hill tour hike in advance for your group. It’s an absolute must for a trip through the Cairngorms!
Kirstin C — Google review
We had a fantastic few hours with the herd, such a brilliant experience. The three herders we had were so informative and answered all of our questions without hesitation. The walk to the herd was fantastic in itself, beautiful scenery, and the 30 second shower of rain we had made the most glorious rainbow. Worth every penny
Vicky D — Google review
An amazing experience seeing the reindeer up close and feeding them. It's a bit of an uphill walk to get to them but well worth it. If you're bringing a campervan, park on the road when you get to the reindeer centre as the car park has a really sharp turn on the exit. You're only at the centre for a short time before driving to another car park to begin the walk up to the herd. Absolutely recommend this reindeer experience!
Heather H — Google review
We had a wonderful morning with the reindeer. The check-in process was quick and easy and the walk up to the reindeer was through some beautiful scenery. We got to spend a good amount of time right in with the herd while learning all about them and having the opportunity to hand feed them too. Our guides were great too. Both informative and friendly. Definitely worth a visit if in the area.
Eden C — Google review
Wonderful experience, the reindeer nose is so soft and docile. I am sure the kids will be thrilled with the encounters, no need to travel to Scandinavian country to experience. There are multiple sessions each day from 11am, website advised pre-booking is essential. A short walk to the free ranging area. Also if you take the fork, there is a nice short trail, don't miss it since you are here.
Khin — Google review
We did not do the tour to see the reindeer in their natural habitat because the guide and signs everywhere warn how difficult the trek is. But, they do bring the deer down on a rotating basis for people who can't make the trip to see. I bought some beautiful original art here to support this center and their cause to protect these lovely creatures.
Sharon C — Google review
Just a fantastic experience! We purchased our tickets in advance. My spouse is the one who really wanted to do this when we were up within the Cairngorms, and boy was it worth it. The hill hike maybe 20 minutes hike from the Sugar Bowl Car Park, and there are several climbs with stone steps along it. Once you reach the fenced area you will walk on a wooden walkway to reach the herd. We had light rain the day we went, and one of our guides, Lotti was wearing red rain gear. She fed the reindeer cattle feed from a green sack, and during this process she slung the sack over her shoulder…and for a moment I thought she could had been Santa Claus🤣 Every one has an opportunity to hand feed the reindeer and afterwards you can stay with the herd as long as you like.
Mark E — Google review
4.7
(2096)
•
4.5
(1035)
Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, Glenmore, Aviemore PH22 1QU, United Kingdom
http://www.cairngormreindeer.co.uk/
+44 1479 861228
5

Elgin Cathedral

Mentioned on 
+36 other lists 
Cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
Elgin Cathedral, a picturesque 13th-century ruin, boasts two intact towers and vaulted archways adorned with stone carvings. The cathedral has a tumultuous history, having endured fires, attacks, storms, and the Scottish Reformation. Despite this, it remains an enchanting site filled with medieval charm. Visitors can climb the West Front tower and the Chapter House tower to enjoy breathtaking views of Elgin and its surrounding landmarks.
Had a lovely couple of hours here. A surprising gem with much more to offer than initially meets the eye. Two accessible high towers with narrow spiral staircases are not for the faint hearted but absolutely worth the effort with excellent views from the top platform and multiple rooms with exhibitions on the way up. Some fantastic carved stone examples and lots of great photo opportunities. Staff were very helpful and happy to chat about the history. There is parking on the roads nearby which is free.
Vicky R — Google review
Very nice ruin. Well maintained. Very nice staff at main entrance who gave us a snippet of what to see and expect. Lovely view of Elgin from the top. The stairs up were well maintained, not too narrow, not a hard climb either. I do recommend. We used explorer pass to enter.
Yashoda S — Google review
Signed up for annual Historic Scotland pass. Visited the cathedral while touring the Moray Firth area. Found the site to be well kept with loads of informative information on it's history. Staff were great and answered my questions. Recommend
Russ L — Google review
remarkable abbey ruin ...would've been amazing to see in its day as what's left is looks pretty amazing ...lots carvings as well. . Even as a ruin, the cathedral shines out as one of Scotland's most ambitious and beautiful medieval buildings. Begun in 1224, Elgin was the principal church of the bishops of Moray. It lost its roof shortly after the Protestant Reformation of 1560, and later its central tower fell.
Warren B — Google review
We visited Elgin Cathedral today and absolutely loved our experience. The staff were incredibly kind and welcoming, and to our delight, we were even allowed to bring our dogs with us onto the beautiful grounds. That made the visit extra special and unforgettable for us. We are so grateful for this wonderful experience!
Laura M — Google review
Hauntingly evocative ruins in stone. Curated exhibitions in the surviving snd partially restored towers add to appreciation of the time and place when Elgin was an active cathedral. The decorative stone sculptures are unique surviving treasures; some are whimsical and others are quite skillfully made. There is a nearby parking lot for easy access.
Hannah P — Google review
This cathedral ruin was awesome, I really enjoyed walking around this place, reading all the information boards, seeing all the old stone work, and fragments. You have a great view over the entire area from the top of the tower. There are steep spiral stairs, but well worth the climb. £11 entry per adult.
Matthew T — Google review
Absolutely fantastic place to visit, with so much history and so much of the building to see, you could literally stay an entire day. Also home to Scotlands tallest gravestone, at over 5 meters long!
Ollie C — Google review
4.5
(2590)
•
4.5
(876)
King St, Elgin, IV30 1HU, United Kingdom
https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/elgin-cathedral/
+44 1343 547171
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6

Cardhu Distillery

Mentioned on 
13 lists 
Distillery
Food & Drink
Cardhu Distillery, established in 1811 by Helen Cumming as an illegal operation and later licensed in 1824, is the first distillery to be officially supported by a woman. The distillery offers guided tours detailing the whisky-making process and has a visitor centre where visitors can choose from a range of tours available. A visit to Cardhu Distillery provides insight into its intriguing back story that may surprise even regular consumers of their products.
The tour of CARDHU Distillery was not only extremely informative but fun and very enjoyable too. Zoe, our guide, took us through the history from its early days of Helen Cummings hiding her stills from the tax man, right up-to-date. The aromas and sights within the distillery were a wonderful experience for the senses. Everywhere was impeccably presented - obviously a big company can afford to furnish the tour area to a high standard - but even so, we felt like we were getting real five star service. The tour finished with a wonderful tasting experience. It actually felt like a private dining room in a swanky hotel, very plush and we felt extremely special. I was driving so I could only sniff and have a very small taste of the whiskeys, however there was a non-alcoholic cocktail for me to try. Also the distillery provided dinky little driver packs to take away so that I could decant my whiskey tots into small bottles which were labelled so that I know which is which when I get back home. From the beginning to the end of our visit everything was absolutely perfect and Zoe went over and above to make everybody feel welcome. She’s an excellent ambassador for the brand.
Paul R — Google review
Historical & fabulous Whisky & Tour Cardhu has ALWAYS been my favorite whisky. Even whilst living abroad (Switzerland, France, etc), I would always drink Cardhu. Not sure if it is the bottle, the colour of the whisky the taste & smell, but this was always clearly my favorite (since the end of the 90's probably). Therefore obviously visiting Scotland, this was a must stop for me. We visiting the Distillery with my family and really enjoyed it. The kids too thought it was really interesting. The tour is super informative but also fun. To be noted you end with a little tasting then you can also sample the shop, which is beautiful and one of the nicest I have seen for a distillery shop. This is a highly recommended tour by me!
Paul V — Google review
Really enjoyed our tour of Cardhu. Very informative, interesting and very well presented y Alicia. I am not usually a whiskey drinker but would highly recommend doing this tour. We felt very welcome from the minute we walked through the doors. Lovely setting too. Great tour thanks so much!
Linda R — Google review
Before visiting Scotland, my boyfriend and I weren’t familiar with Cardhu. We actually got the tip to visit Cardhu Distillery from an associate at the Johnny Walker Experience in Edinburgh. We booked ahead of time and had the pleasure of taking a tour with Erin. We ended up being the only ones who signed up for our tour time, which ended up being fantastic as we had a lot of questions! Erin is very kind and has a strong knowledge of whisky and we learned a lot about the whisky process. We truly enjoyed our visit to Cardhu Distillery thanks to Erin’s excellent tour.
Erikka L — Google review
Raise the red flag of Cardhu and many thanks to Kirsten for a fantastic tour and tasting! Perhaps the most compelling and enduring story of 2 women leaders, one a founder (Helen Cumming). Started as an illicit distillery (13 years) around 1811, before becoming legal and then combining forces as Johnny Walker’s supplier. Don’t miss the golden statues of Helen & Johnny walking into the bright future together!
B G — Google review
Our guide was exceptionally knowledgeable and passionated by the handcrafting of Cadhu whisky. Very detailed and friendly presentation of all the steps of distillation. The place is absolutely beautiful, lost in the middle of the Speyside. Worth a visit if you’re around the region.
Xavier B — Google review
Absolutely lovely guided tour. I strongly recommend it! If you drive, do not worry, they will provide for free small nice bottle kit for you to carry away after the tasting.
Patrick R — Google review
My first experience at a distillery and Allison made me feel welcome and comfortable. Fantastic tour and would recommend to any anyone
Branka B — Google review
4.7
(367)
•
4.5
(935)
Knockando, Charlestown of Aberlour, Aberlour, AB38 7RY, United Kingdom
http://www.cardhudistillery.com/
+44 1479 874635
7

The Glenlivet Distillery

Mentioned on 
17 lists 
Distillery
Food & Drink
The Glenlivet Distillery, established in 1824, is a renowned destination for whisky enthusiasts. Located in the picturesque Moray Speyside region of Scotland, it offers tours and tastings that provide insight into the distillation process and its rich history. Nestled in a remote glen with a dramatic past, the distillery captures the spirit of its surroundings in every bottle of whisky produced.
We are not whisky drinkers, but we really enjoyed the tour at Glenlivet Distillery. It was a very interesting and informative tour, and we left with a deeper appreciation of the science and art behind a great single malt Scotch Whisky. Our tour was conducted by Amber, and she did a fantastic job in explaining all the details clearly. A special mention too for Emma, who kindly allowed us to join the tour even when we were late to arrive.
Kim-Yuan K — Google review
A Fantastic Experience at The Glenlivet! Our visit to The Glenlivet was absolutely wonderful! The distillery itself is stunning — surrounded by breathtaking scenery and beautifully maintained inside and out. Our tour guide, Caitlynn, made the experience even better. She was fun, friendly, and incredibly informative, sharing the history and process behind The Glenlivet with great enthusiasm. It was the perfect balance of education and enjoyment. Highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Speyside!
Fiona B — Google review
My wife and I visited The Glenlivet Distillery in last November and absolutely loved it. This is one of my favorite Scotch brands, so getting to see the original distillery was really special. The area is beautiful, even in winter, and the views around the distillery are worth the trip on their own. The tour was excellent. Our guide was friendly and very knowledgeable, sharing the history of The Glenlivet and the story behind the brand in a way that kept us engaged. We finished with a tasting of several different expressions, which was a highlight. I even got the chance to fill my own bottle of cask strength Glenlivet, which made the experience unforgettable. If you enjoy Scotch or just want to learn more about whisky in a stunning setting, I highly recommend visiting.
Deepak K — Google review
Wow, what a beautiful distillery and tasting room. We came in to the distillery while we were out hiking the Drumin Castle Circuit, which is the same hike as the George Smith Smugglers Trail, except for the starting point as the Smugglers Trail starts at the distillery. We had tastings, and my hen and I also had margaritas made with the Caribbean Reserve. Our tasting consisted of very generous pours of the Captain's Reserve, Caribbean Reserve and 15 years of age single malt scotch whisky. Honestly we were not too keen on any of them. I would say we may had needed to push on and try some more until we found the one to our liking, but we needed to finish our hike. If we had drank anymore I sure we would had crawled instead of walk the rest of the trail 😂 We did very much enjoyed the margaritas, but I think we will just keep using tequila instead of the Caribbean Reserve, as it cost £30 for a 70 cl bottle. We would like to thank the Glenlivet Estate and The Glenlivet Distillery staff for their wonderful hospitality as we had a grand time!
Mark E — Google review
Wonderful tour, our tour guide (Jamie) has been wonderful. The tour itself it is a combination of a beautifully made visual experience, walk through the distillery, and whisky tasting. All in all a very nice way to get to know the Glenlivet even better.
Anne M — Google review
Had an awesome time at The Glenlivet Distillery! The tour isn’t as pricey as some others, but it’s packed with history and fun facts about both the brand and Scotch whisky in general. You get to try three whiskies at the end — the 12, 14, and 16-year-old — which is a nice change from the usual 12, 15, and 18. They also give you a 10% discount voucher for any whisky purchase, and you can sample more before you buy. Great whisky, great value, and a really enjoyable.
Andreas — Google review
Although we didn’t get to join the tour, we were totally impressed by the place! The bar was exceptionally nice, and the staff were so sweet and welcoming. We picked up a few souvenirs on our way out and hopefully, we’ll get to try the tour next time!
Mugsey — Google review
During my visit to Scotland I wanted to have a whiskey tasting experience and I was thrilled to see the Glenlivet distillery was couple ours away from the place I stayed as Glenlivet is one of my favorite whiskeys. The day I had booked I was running late and called them and asked can they accommodate me and my friends for a later tour. Even it was clearly said they would not be able to reschedule for later time, in the booking details, they told me they will try their best to include me in a later tour as I mentioned I was visiting all the way from New York. Now for the tour I should mention, Amber was really welcoming, knowledgeable and very pleasant the way she interact with guests. Thanks Amber. The Distillery itself sits in a nice estate with beautiful surroundings. Inside the building is modern with a nice waiting area a bar and a store. Although they could improve the variety of merch they have in the store, they have decent offerings.
Gayan W — Google review
4.6
(733)
•
4.5
(869)
Glenlivet, Ballindalloch, AB37 9DB, United Kingdom
http://www.maltwhiskydistilleries.com/theglenlivet
+44 1340 821720
8

Aberlour Distillery

Mentioned on 
+13 other lists 
Distillery
Food & Drink
Nestled at the meeting point of Rivers Lour and Spey, Aberlour Distillery is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes with Ben Rinnes towering nearby. Visitors can enjoy relaxed tours to witness the whisky-making process and indulge in tutored tastings. The distillery offers a range of malts with rich velvety notes, and special tastings are available in the luxurious Fleming Rooms.
This was my first whisky tasting, so I can't make comparisons. I appreciated the information provided, and the instructor was great. I was pleased to taste a bit, and take the majority of the whiskey home in individual vials - which allowed me to safely drive. Unfortunately no tour was available. Coming from Canada, it was great to see the home of my favourite whisky !!
Shane T — Google review
Even with construction, the visitor's center and tastings were available (July 2025). My two friends and I stopped in as Aberlour is one of our favorites. First, Allison is amazing. Her knowledge of current and older releases and the process to make each expression was impressive but her congeniality and communication were what sets this experience apart. She was friendly, funny, and responsive. The tasting room is small but beautiful and sufficient since there are no large tour groups finishing there.
Joshua W — Google review
Great tasting experience (Deconstructed Scotch Tasting). Distillery is undergoing massive reservations so no tours. Still, the tasting was a lot of fun with Allison, our tasting guide, taking us through a flight of five different Abelour scotches. All of them were incredible and 45 minutes wasn’t nearly enough time to cover everything (we went a tad over). Loved it so much, ended up purchasing a bottle of their award winning 18 year old Double Sherry Cask finished scotch. Definitely a great experience and more personable (to me) vs. nearby big distillery tours. Thanks Allison and Abelour!!
J. C — Google review
What a brilliant experience. It was fascinating to learn about the history of the Arbelour distillery and the process of making one of my all time favourite malt whisky’s. Lindsay (my host) was very good at both the history and the process and clearly has her roots in making premium malt whisky and answered all of my questions despite some being in the stupid category. The absence of not being able to have a tour of the distillery didn’t reduce the overall experience. The tasting session is highly recommended
Andy I — Google review
Attended the tasting room for the Aberlour Deconstructed Tasting. Enjoyed a really good session with an excellent guide and some fantastic drams.
Mark.K — Google review
Exceptionally Charming Experience with rare editions of Aberlour Expressions. Hostess was very knowledgeable and it was interesting to learn about their next generation plans regarding the distillery.
Zinzu B — Google review
Yesterday I visited the Aberlour Distillery for a whisky tasting with two friends — and it was absolutely top-notch! Everything was so well organized and thoughtfully presented. What stood out the most was the incredible attention to detail in the storytelling — we were completely immersed in the history and craft behind each expression. The presentation was beautiful, full of character and small touches that made the experience feel truly special. A lovely surprise was the Walkers shortbread, a delicious and elegant little bonus that added a true taste of Scotland. Also appreciated the exclusive discount in their shop — a great opportunity to take home a bottle (or two!) at a better price. Highly recommended to any whisky lover or curious traveler in the area! Valeriia
Valeriia K — Google review
We booked the Aberlour Uncovered experience. This was the more humble experience we had as was the only one of the eight distilleries we visited that did not include a visit to the facilities. They said that it is because of safety reasons. Despite that the staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. The Whisky selection was also great.
Roberto F — Google review
4.6
(474)
•
4.5
(570)
Banffshire, A95, Aberlour AB38 9PJ, United Kingdom
https://www.maltwhiskydistilleries.com/aberlour
+44 1340 881249
9

Glenshee Ski Centre

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Ski resort
Outdoor Activities
Glenshee Ski Centre, located near Braemar, offers a diverse natural terrain suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With 22 lifts and 36 runs, it provides ample opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. The area also features the easy Munro peaks of The Cairnwell, Carn Aosda, and Carn a Gheoidh, which can be summitted in one day with minimal ascent.
Friendly staff and super helpful. If there is no skiing there are some lovely walks and also sledging for the kids. Vegan and vegetarian options in the cafe including a delicious vegan hot chocolate. Great area to stay the night if you have a campervan too. Remember to look out at the stars at night if it's clear, you won't be disappointed!
Mike S — Google review
June 2022, nice location for a coffee and bite, great roads to its destination, great scenery, food choice is limited but overall it’s worth a stop
Mukesh P — Google review
My son and I spent Friday 31 January 2025 practicing our recently learned basic snowboarding skills on the slopes of Glenshee. What an absolutely beautiful day. No wind, some sunshine and lovely snow. We first went to the training area for a bit of a warm-up and an introduction to the poma lift (a new experience for us). Then off to the bigger slopes with longer and faster poma lifts. All of the Glenshee team were great. Our thanks to Ben (equipment hire) for getting our kit sorted and a huge thank you to Colin who was manning the Claybokie lift. Colin, you made my day by helping me get to grips with the lift. Thank you. We will definitely be heading back for more at Glenshee.
Ian C — Google review
Brilliant run on my bike to Glenshee. Nice to visit in the summer, great cup of tea and biscuits. Usually visit in the winter for the last 30 odd years brilliant skiing on the tiger 🐅 and over the back of sunnyside. Maybe next year xx
Peter M — Google review
Great place to learn to ski and improve. Despite there not being any heavy snowfall, the centre makes sure to make snow for the two beginner slopes and a blue run. The cafe is clean and warm with reasonably priced food and drinks available. The cafe has free WiFi, is dog friendly and provides food options for Gluten Free and Vegetarian upon request. We camped with our roof tent on one of the electric hook up spaces the centre has. Great price, but a lack of facilities (no showers or water tap) but staff will fill water containers in the cafe for you upon request. But just something to be aware of if you're planning on staying for more than a night or two. Also worth noting that if you're staying with a roof tent to check the wind speeds and gusts as they can get very high. All the staff we encountered during our stay were amazing! Friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. This especially goes for the staff in the ski hire, who are able to help find the right equipment for you, and providing enthusiasm needed for a nervous beginner. Overall we had a fantastic stay and time here.
Ellesha C — Google review
I used to make a point of stopping off here for coffee & cake, not because I particularly wanted to but to support the company & ski industry. But last winter, I arrived for a walk in the snow, I also had my ski touring kit. The snow was awful & only 2 lifts were open. On the opposite side of the road to the open lifts, I thought a I saw a possible line of ascent with ski touring gear. So I went up for an hour or so. The snow cover was poor & very thin. I met a maintenance guy, Angus, son of the owner. Had a pleasant chat with him, he explained that to “ski” on this land within the ski area boundary, I needed a £25 ski tourer pass. So I said I’d buy one at the bottom. Once I’d descended, I got hassled by an older guy, who was less pleasant and told me to get a ski pass. I told him that’s what I was doing & I’d spoken to Angus earlier. He just wouldn’t let it go. So I just walked off & bought said pass. So, in summary, I paid for coffee, cake, parking & a ski pass, for a couple of hours padding about on crappy snow, didn’t even use the lifts. I haven’t stopped there since and probably never will. I live in Perth & drive past fairly regularly. So that’s 1 customer lost forever.
Christopher B — Google review
I love Glenshee. Staff are decent people and facilities are good for what it is. Yes you may have some small queues for ski hire and restaurant at lunch time but if you take your own gear and packed lunch that avoids the hassles! There’s loads of rental places from the south side (after Blairgowrie) of the ski centre if you need to rent and they’re cheaper. I consider myself a fairly rubbish boarder to be honest but I found I had plenty of space and time do dart about at my own pace. Staff are good on the pomas too so I didn’t feel too rushed. Guys do a good job or trying to keep runs open and covering bare/icy spots where possible. I saw a few staff on skis so I felt super safe too. I hope the weather is kind to these guys and they get loads of good seasons in the future. And the views. WOW! This is the longest review I’ve left ! Haha. Recommended.
Martyn R — Google review
Stopped by while visiting Scotland, bought a sled for my little boy to have his first ever go at sledding and we had a great time. We didn’t get to sample the cafe as the cue was out the door but that says it all a very popular place. Plenty of toilet facilities, great when you have a health condition like myself so felt comfortable there. Car park was a mix of snow ice and flooded in areas so not for a none confident driver. Overall a lovely time spent exploring Glenshee Ski Centre and would love to return.
Kera R — Google review
4.4
(589)
•
4.0
(259)
Old Military Rd, Ballater, AB35 5XU, United Kingdom
https://www.ski-glenshee.co.uk/
+44 1339 741320
10

WDC Scottish Dolphin Centre

Mentioned on 
+7 other lists 
Tours
Cafe
The WDC Scottish Dolphin Centre is an educational facility situated at the confluence of River Spey and the sea, offering wildlife enthusiasts a chance to witness local fauna up close through live web cams, film screenings and a collection of whale bones. Visitors can also take guided tours of the historic Icehouse and learn about Spey Bays fishing heritage. The admission to the centre is free, making it an affordable destination for families with kids.
Was a great day so had a great view and was fairly busy which is always a good sign. The sea is great, their are river walks and the cafe/shop was good, the sandwiches were tasty and of good quality. Parking available at the centre, and easy access to the river and sea front.
Scott W — Google review
Good little cafe and exhibition. Easy access to the shingle banks. Guided tours of the ice house available. Great walk around the nature reserve too. Managed to see an osprey too as an added bonus.
Andrew M — Google review
This is a beautiful centre, with a lovely cafe, where you can learn, explore and see dolphins enjoying their natural habitat. We were lucky enough to enjoy other wildlife on our visit such as ospreys, lizards and kingfishers. The staff are incredible, they shared so much knowledge and insight with us. You must listen to the informative talk about bones and join the Ice House tour for a real insight into our history. James and Hope were exceptional. A must do and see if you are in the area!
Laura P — Google review
We didn't see any Dolphins but they don't guarantee that you will. Lovely walk on the beach, it is all pebbles so thick soled shoes/boots are advisable. Food and hot drinks available in cafe. Small gift shop.
Janette E — Google review
Lovely place to visit lots of wildlife if you're lucky dolphins passing great for a walk with the dog there's toilets shop coffee
Brian C — Google review
Really nice little cafe & Shop X the exhibition on the dolphins is full of useful information X lovely setting, and views X we were fortunate enough to be able to watch the Osprey hunting while we were there, he flew right over our heads & gave us both (separately) a 10/15 minute display x unfortunately didn't see any 🐬 dolphins but they hadn't been recorded for 2 days so clearly tides & winds weren't right X would recommend it to anyone x
Jenny N — Google review
Amazing place, amazing people, an absolutely amazing cause. Cafe is also excellent, very nice fresh food served with very little wait (as its all freshly prepared) they don't like waste and nor do we. Its also very very environmentally friendly both cafe and shop. Amazing products, supporting local artists as well as their own clothing which is all recycled 100% cotton, also supporting so many people with their citizen science programme. I can't say enough about how amazing this place is. Their is also a bird reserve just by as its at the mouth of the river Spey. Dolphins, porpoise seen nearly daily.
Jill — Google review
Wonderful place to visit. Be prepared to climb over rocks and the pebble beach to look for the Dolphins, although we did not see any the visitor centre was well worth a visit and cafe serves lovely food
Steve W — Google review
4.4
(2146)
•
4.5
(314)
Spey Bay, Fochabers, IV32 7PJ, United Kingdom
https://dolphincentre.whales.org/
+44 1343 820339
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11

Glenfiddich Distillery

Mentioned on 
+46 other lists 
Distillery
Museums
Glenfiddich Distillery, located in the picturesque village that is an essential stop on Speyside's Malt Whisky Trail, offers traditional Victorian distillery tours. The area is not only renowned for its whisky but also for being home to one of the best salmon rivers. Visitors can explore the surrounding countryside with its vibrant colors and visit classic distilleries like Glenfiddich, Macallan, Aberlour, and Glenlivet.
I had a great time touring this rightfully famous distillery in Dufftown! The distillery is beautiful, sitting in a scenic valley, they just recently added a beautiful new still house. The tour is a great value: in 1h30 you get to learn about the history of this family distillery, visit the facility with a step-by-step of the whisky making process, and get to try 4 different drams, including a special edition. They take away kits for drivers, but I would recommend leaving the car home and coupling this visit with a ride on the Keith-Dufftown heritage railway for a full-day experience!
Daniel S — Google review
Beautiful & Legendary Distillery We decided to visit Glenfiddich Distillery in Dufftown, as we were visiting the nearby Balvenie castle. We really enjoyed it and thought this place was great. It looks the part, a bit Victorian a bit Scottish, it is really nice & well maintained. I have know this Whisky my whole life, even living in Switzerland, somehow it was always in the bars, clubs I was going to. I imagined it would of been a larger and more industrial place. I was happy to see it was more normal, smaller, etc. This is somewhat in the heart of Speyside's whisky region do visit if you can! The tour (like most of them in Scotland explains the production and making process, of whisky. Really worth your time and highly recommended from us. Note they also have a great shop and bar.
Paul V — Google review
Had my first-ever distillery tour at Glenfiddich! Our guide was hilarious! super engaging and very informative 😂 The place itself is absolutely stunning and filled with history. The whisky tasting was alright, but it was still really fun to learn the story behind the drinks. Such an interesting and memorable experience!
Mugsey — Google review
Our tour guide was super knowledgeable, friendly, always stopped to ask us if we had any questions, and took his time with us and didn’t rush things along. The tasting room was super nice, very exclusive feeling, and there were only a handful of us on the tour together, so it felt very personal. 100% recommend.
Will V — Google review
Unforgettable Tasting Experience The Glenfiddich 1990 and 1992 Sherry Oak casks are hands down the best whiskies I’ve ever tasted, truly exceptional! Deep, rich, and perfectly balanced. A standout moment in an already fantastic tasting.
Jesper C — Google review
We were passing the Glenfiddich Distillery when we met a very friendly security guard. He invited us to have a look around so we did. All the tours were booked up. We chatted with various people and visited the shop which was very busy. Next time we visit we might book a tour and that would give a better understanding of this very popular industry.
Allan M — Google review
Best touring experience ever! We paid for the "milestones" tour, don't hesitate on the price - it is MORE than worth it, just in the whiskey you get to sample!! If you get Brian consider yourself lucky and enjoy your time tremendously with him !! Will be back and will recommend again and again !!!
Joshua S — Google review
Visiting the iconic Glenfiddich Distillery near Dufftown, the heart of Speyside's whisky region, is a must. The tour offers a fascinating glimpse into their whisky-making process, from mashing to maturation. Tasting their renowned single malts is a highlight. While it can be busy, the chance to experience this Speyside icon and learn about their family history and innovative techniques is well worth it for any whisky lover in the area. The visitor center and shop are excellent too.
Freddy L — Google review
4.6
(925)
•
4.5
(2060)
Dufftown, Keith, AB55 4DH, United Kingdom
https://www.glenfiddich.com/
+44 1340 820373
12

Huntly Castle

Mentioned on 
+8 other lists 
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Huntly Castle is a historic site located near the border of Aberdeenshire, boasting ruins dating back to the 12th century. Originally built by the Earl of Fife, it has undergone numerous modifications over time. The castle features impressive architecture including stately palaces and towering structures. Having served as a residence and stronghold for five centuries, it has endured multiple attacks and displays visible scars from its tumultuous past.
What a wonderful find! Huntly Castle is open in the off season, and offers free parking right next to the entrance. This is a really neat site. I loved that you could climb up to the top of the tower. Also has a very interesting history...
Katherine M — Google review
A car park big enough for over 6 vehicles. Short walk to entrance building with small shop selling gifts and treats. Entrance fee payable. The castle is big and an outhouse also exists to explore. The main castle has some restrictions to access and intricate details have been protected from the weather. Still an impressive size with prison, cellars, great hall, kitchen, bedrooms etc. Outside is a building with a bakery and a brew house. Part of the original medieval road exists just outside.
Joseph K — Google review
The castle ruins is incredible. The size is quite impressive, between the cellars, the prison, the living rooms and the different rooms you will spent 1h . All the explanations are really good, the story of it is fascinant. Highly recommanded.
Laurent G — Google review
Went first thing it opened, the older gentleman we chated with inside the castle was super happy to be there, he felt like a personal tour guide and you could tell he loved what he was doing.
ScottyDoesTV — Google review
this is a wonderful castle ruins and so definitely worth a visit...the site is home to a number of castles during its history ...a medieval road lays next to the current ruin as well ...Once a magnificent, sumptuous and ornate building, Huntly Castle is a large and ruinous old stronghold and palace in a pretty wooded location, long the seat of the powerful Gordon Earls and Marquises of Huntly and with a long and violent history, just north of the Aberdeenshire town of Huntly.
Warren B — Google review
Huntly castle is a must see castle whilst visiting aberdeenshire for all its a ruin there is still allot to see and you can use your imagination to fill in the blanks. There is a well stocked shop that sells everything from books to souvenirs to fridge magnets the people who run the site are very friendly and welcoming and happy to answer any question that you might have. There is decent parking next to the castle so no issues there also toilets are avaliable. The views from on top of Huntly castle are well worth the effort. 10/10
Mark N — Google review
A very beautiful Castle, I spent hours exploring and there are beautiful walks and praks in the surrounding area. A fantastic day out. 🤩🤩
Christine C — Google review
Enjoyed a lovely family day out. Admission was reasonably priced. Walked around the ruins had inside and outdoor areas. Some pebbled areas, steps to climb and different levels to negotiate but not to much for the young children in the party aged between (3 and 6) Disabled access is limited to the surrounds as climbing stairs inside the towers may present difficulties. There was parking facilities outside and a nice park with play area and picnic area close to the river which was very picturesque.
Rachel W — Google review
4.6
(960)
•
4.5
(238)
Castle St, Huntly, AB54 4SH, United Kingdom
https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/huntly-castle/
+44 1466 793191
13

Portsoy Ice Cream

Mentioned on 
4 lists 
$$$$affordable
Ice cream shop
Nestled along the picturesque Moray coastline, Portsoy is a charming fishing village that offers more than just stunning views and rich maritime history. Among its many delights, Portsoy Ice Cream stands out as a must-visit destination for ice cream lovers. Known for an impressive array of flavors, this delightful shop has something to satisfy every palate—from traditional favorites to unique alternatives that are sure to surprise and delight.
Unreal - Definitely worth the stop on the A98. Staff were friendly and attentive! Ice cream was super smooth, full of flavour. Loads to choose from! Dont think about stopping - ABSOLUTELY STOP!
Lewis P — Google review
Firt class ice cream shop / sit in. An amazing choice of Ice cream and desserts tucked away on the lovely village of Portsoy. An incredible array of flavours and toppings. Bubble waffle seems to be a popular choice in my family. I total recommend a visit , I will be returning.
Martin R — Google review
Really nice place. Large variety of ice cream ,waffles etc. Good coffee. Friendly staff. Clean.
C L — Google review
Great ice cream shop on the main street opposite the bakers and the church, which has a low wall and handy benches to sit on when eating your ice cream. Just watch out for the gulls! Make sure you head down to the Quay side, it is a very lovely location.
Matt H — Google review
Never miss this place if you are in Portsoy.Best icecreams and sorbet bowls. Tried 3 scoops bowl of lotus biscoff, strawberry and cookies andcream. And a sorbet bowl with nuts and coconut bits and banana and raspberry with hot milk chocolates sauce. If sugar wasn't that diabetic I could eat this everyday 😍
B L — Google review
Delicious ice cream with all the delights! We also bought a souvenir made from local driftwood to bring home.
Michael M — Google review
Very busy. Queues likely to be long. The options and quality are amazing. It’s worth the wait, you’re not rushed. The area around is amazing too, close to a park so the kids can enjoy after all that ice cream! There is also plenty of free parking around the area.
Rana M — Google review
Travelled a long way for this. Has been highly recommended. Great choices and was absolutely buzzing. Was very popular. Good value and tasty ice cream. Would recommend trying the cinnamon bun with ice cream in the middle 👌
Nic — Google review
4.8
(1589)
•
4.5
(330)
24 Seafield St, Portsoy, Banff AB45 2QT, United Kingdom
https://portsoyicecream.co.uk/
+44 1261 842279
14

Craigievar

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Sights & Landmarks
Castles
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Alford, Craigievar Castle stands out with its enchanting pink facade that harmonizes perfectly with the lush green hills surrounding it. This stunning structure is not just a feast for the eyes; it's also rumored to have inspired Walt Disney's iconic Cinderella Castle, adding a touch of fairy tale magic to your visit. Exploring Craigievar offers a delightful glimpse into Scotland's rich history and architectural beauty, making it a must-see destination for any traveler seeking charm and wonder.
4.5
(465)
Alford, AB33 8JP, UK
15

Grampian Transport Museum

Mentioned on 
+7 other lists 
Temporarily Closed
Museum
Cafe
Grampian Transport Museum, located in Aberdeen, is a family-friendly museum with seasonal opening hours. It features an extensive collection of vehicles from the 19th century to the present, including traveling chariots and high-speed cars. The museum is housed in a historic building that was once home to artist Sir George Reid PRSA and also showcases a large collection of medals, including several Victoria Crosses.
What a wonderful little museum! Full of unexpected delights such as original "cars" modified and driven by the Top Gear team. Also plenty of other classic exhibits ranging from an Austin 1100 to a William Hay and Sons lemonade lorry. If you're in Alford, pay a visit, you won't regret it
Steve W — Google review
Had a great couple of hours looking around the museum. We especially enjoyed viewing the Top Gear and Guy Martin exhibitions - Guy's world record bicycle and the crazy (smashed up) go kart are particular highlights. There's a lovely cafe with a good selection of gluten free lunches. It's all dog friendly and the staff were super friendly, even giving the dogs a gravy bone on arrival. It's well worth the fee to enter.
Vicky R — Google review
This is a lovely old school museum. Incredibly friendly staff, plenty to see and the Top Gear exhibition is well worth the lengthy drive from almost anywhere else in the country! It's totally accessible and set in a lovely part of the world. Gift shop and cafe are great and well priced too.
Fraser C — Google review
My partner and I visited the Grampian transport museum and was thoroughly impressed by its excellent presentation. It's a must see attraction for any car enthusiast, Top Gear or Guy Martin fan. It almost goes without saying but it's the Top Gear cars that brought me to the museum. I had only found out about it just days prior to my trip when Drivetribe (a popular YouTube channel) had released a video on the indestructible Toyota Hilux that Grampian are now the proud owners of. However, it doesn't stop at just the Hilux, they own many of the iconic TV cars such as the Rambulance, the P45 and even the amphibious vehicles that the legendary trio of Clarkson, Hammond and May tried crossing the English Channel in. Explaining the history of each vehicle was a passionate volunteer Finlay McHardy who really made the day for us. Listening to him talk about the episodes each vehicle was featured in and sharing knowledge not found on the information boards. He even shared some details about what the future may hold for the vehicles... Meaning, if you're thinking they might try and start the Hilux. You may be right. The team at Grampian are sent on courses and trained to try and preserve the exhibits they have on display. The Hilux being no exception. If the pickup truck does indeed still run after time has been added to the concoction of death it's had to endure then it'll be because of the amazing team at Grampian and not the Smallest Cog as many suspect. Moving away from the Top Gear exhibit the museum also features trams, bikes in both push and motorised varieties as well as historic 'transportation of the future' such as the Sinclair C5 a vehicle that I believe was ahead of its time. The museum really is a treasure trove of information with the sheer diversity it has to offer and with plenty to read for those that wish to do so. It's very clear a lot of care has gone into making the exhibits as enjoyable and informative as possible. If all of this sounds tiring or perhaps you're not as passionate as a partner, child or any other acquaintance that you may be travelling with is. Then not to worry there is a lovely café located inside the museum called Motorbites which I feel is a worthy pun. It offers a great range of food and drink at what I found to be a very reasonable price, making it the perfect spot for lunch or just a break! The only negative I can draw from my visit is the behaviour of a school group. The children seemed to treat the museum like a playground, running around without much supervision or respect for the exhibits. While this didn't entirely detract from my experience, it was a minor disruption. However, this is not Grampian's fault and more so the lack of supervision from the responsible adults of the school trip. Overall I had a great time. So much so that if you look hard enough you may find my name, Finlay's name or many others dotted around the exhibits as the museum offer a vehicle adoption scheme for a one of fee of £25. This goes towards running the museum and the upkeep of the exhibits as Grampian is owned and operated by a registered charity of which I was more than happy to support. So on that bombshell, it's a 5/5 from me
Matthew M — Google review
As someone who has watched endless Topgear, it was great to see some of the special episode cars here. The staff were all friendly, small cafe on side. Would recommend. Slight inconvenience we turned up at 3:30pm and were told they shut at 4pm despite it saying 5pm on the website. Came back in the morning though
Mark M — Google review
Delightful small museum which I’ve visited several times over the years but never taken my granddaughter so decided to go yesterday & support local. Some new items since last time there. Top gear really good as you remember it from seeing it on tv & good to see their creations in real life. Sadly what let’s the place down is the cafe as my granddaughter wanted the kids lunch box which is a sandwich, juice, etc. they couldn’t do a tuna sandwich at 2.12pm ?? However said we could have egg /bacon? how difficult would it have been to make a wee tuna sandwich ?? So we didn’t have lunch. I mentioned this at desk on way out as a suggestion to do sandwiches at any time of the day but he didn’t seem very interested to hear what I had to say. Outdoor play area is disappointing- not kept well not clean. They used to have a super bit for kids to go round small circuit in cars in the play area but that’s not there anymore. So all in all they happy to charge £27 for 2 adults 1 child but clearly doesn’t go into maintaining the kids area.
Alice W — Google review
The visit was great, there was lots to see while the top gear exhibit was on, it was like meeting my childhood heros 🤣
Regi J — Google review
Great museum with information boards across all different cars, bikes and carriages. The top gear cars are brilliant for anyone who is a fan.
Adam M — Google review
4.7
(1052)
•
4.6
(417)
Montgarrie Rd, Alford, AB33 8AE, United Kingdom
http://www.gtm.org.uk/
+44 1975 562292
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16

Duff House

Mentioned on 
+8 other lists 
Sights & Landmarks
Architectural Buildings
Nestled in the charming town of Banff, Duff House stands as a stunning example of Georgian architecture and is an integral part of Scotland's cultural landscape. This historic estate, designed by the renowned architect William Adam, serves as a vibrant art gallery showcasing an impressive collection of Scottish and European masterpieces, including works by celebrated artists like Raeburn and Gainsborough.
Certainly a big house! I'll not bore you with the history or the styles or the artwork. It certainly has all of those in bags. But what stood out for me was the attentive staff. There were members of staff everywhere with answers to questions almost before I asked them. Happy to show you how something would of worked or tell you some additional information around their exhibits and to just have a chat about the fantastic artwork on display. Did not have enough time to see it all, but saw enough to be content with my visit.
Kev D — Google review
Lovely house steeped in History. Lovely staff. There are a lot of stairs, but there is a lift. It looks like they have a wee cafe on site. But sadly it was closed.
Erika W — Google review
Fabulous house restored to contain wonderful art from the national collection. Glorious 2 floors telling the story of how not to deal with your architect even if it is William Adam! Top floor is exhibition space currently recounting story of Polish war time residents. Staff fabulous and keen to share passion for an amazing site. Closed over lunch and no cafe but sustenance is available in Banff walking distance away
Derek Z — Google review
This place is super cute for a quick walk. If you want to go inside, mornings are best. It's less crowded then, so you can really enjoy it. I highly recommend checking it out! Just make sure to go early if you want to head indoors.
Cloud S — Google review
Highly recommend a visit to Duff House. Staff are highly knowledge and happy to have a good chat. The artwork inside is stunning, floor to ceiling paintings from many famous artists.
Louise H — Google review
Loved this place . Very helpful, welcoming and informative staff. Thank you for making our visit enjoyable and accommodating with access for my daughter as she is unable to walk up stairs they helped with the use of the lift. Highly recommended x Morag
Morag P — Google review
This was good, however I felt cheated knowing most of the paintings and furniture are on loan from National Gallery etc, and there isn’t much to do with Duff House. However I do understand that it may be difficult finding original items, it felt off. Also the staff are nice but do follow you around, ready to pounce with facts and talking when you just want to look at areas. Although this may be informative to some people, I just wanted to look at everything in peace.
Eviye G — Google review
Absolutely stunning! Visited in the pouring rain, staff welcomed us and was very informative throughout our visit.
Laurie S — Google review
4.6
(485)
•
4.5
(327)
Banff, AB45 3SX, United Kingdom
https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/duff-house/
+44 1261 818181
17

Macduff Marine Aquarium

Mentioned on 
+8 other lists 
Temporarily Closed
Aquarium
Nature & Parks
Macduff Marine Aquarium is a charming small-scale attraction that offers an intimate and well-designed experience for visitors. The highlight of the aquarium is its 400,000L open-air tank featuring a kelp-coated reef and wave machine, providing a captivating glimpse into marine life. Visitors can observe marine oddities and living shark eggs up close while learning about human impact on marine ecosystems. The friendly and passionate staff enhance the experience, offering insights during activities such as jellyfish feeding shows.
A great place to visit what ever the weather. The staff were so friendly and the welcome was so warm. As we did out tour there's plenty to see!! Even an area you can interact with the starfish, we made it for the 3pm talk at the interactive pools very informative and inclusive. Great selection of fish and even some baby sharks !! We will be back again soon.
Leigh Y — Google review
Superb aquarium. Weather was looking iffy so we looked for something to do indoors. One of our teens chose this so off we went. Friendly staff and a large variety of fish. What made this especially interesting was that all the species were Scottish. Staff were excellent and the presentations informative but also child friendly: the staff obviously knew their stuff. We spent two hours here but would happily have spent longer.
Memento M — Google review
This is one of the best aquariums I have ever visited. It may not be the biggest, but you'll see a lot in the space that is there! Very friendly and knowledgeable staff- we caught the jellyfish feed, and the feeder, Hannah, was very knowledgeable and was happy to answer questions. The Price Is super reasonable, and there's definitely something for everyone to enjoy- a great attraction!
Owen G — Google review
Not been in some time but was brilliant. Not the biggest but it’s focus is our waters and they have done an absolutely tremendous job. A great catalogue of local marina. Was a good day out and the wee man had a smashing time. The staff are all so friendly and helpful and the feeding times were nice, get to learn more about the fish etc. will be back sooner this time.
Nairnmonster — Google review
Brilliant high quality family experience. Accessible for all. Packed with wonderful sealife viewing areas, informative displays and interactive features. We were very lucky and had opportunity for a hands-on experience with the starfish, crabs and anemones. A memory that will be with us forever. Thank you. Super scientific information and equipment such as digital magnifier and microscopes to use. Fun checklist sheet to do whilst going round. Challenged the adults too! Best of all, the most welcoming, knowledgeable and friendliest of staff! A thoroughly great afternoon out.
Amber H — Google review
Spent a great time here yesterday with the visiting family. Friendly and informative staff on hand. Interesting and well set out aquarium with lots to see and lots to read. Came away with many lovely photographs and five grandchildren were kept completely entertained for the duration of our visit. Thanks very much :)
Carlos F — Google review
Fantastic aquarium, great value and very enjoyable. Kids loved it and the feeding and diving sessions were fun to watch! Staff were knowledgeable and friendly.
Charlotte A — Google review
Still a hit with the kids, lots of different species to see. Some new bits and bobs since we were here a couple of years ago, as well. Managed to catch the show this time, too, good for kids and adults.
Graeme A — Google review
4.6
(1495)
•
4.5
(278)
11 High Shore, Macduff, AB44 1SL, United Kingdom
http://www.macduff-aquarium.org.uk/
+44 1261 455775
18

Fyvie Castle, Garden & Estate (National Trust for Scotland)

Mentioned on 
+18 other lists 
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Fyvie Castle, a stunning architectural gem nestled in Aberdeenshire, dates back to the 13th century and showcases the grandeur of Scottish Baronial Style. Originally constructed as a fortified stronghold, it has evolved into an exquisite family residence over the centuries. The castle boasts lavish Edwardian interiors and is home to an impressive collection of portraits, original arms, and armor that reflect its rich history.
Skillfully maintained and incredibly impressive vegetable garden. Building exterior is ungainly, but it has a diverse history and plenty of interesting furniture and stuff inside. Plus a brilliant little improvisation at the grand peck in the music room by the talented Edinburgh composition student who was the volunteer running the tour!
Tim J — Google review
Wonderful Castle! Very unique castle in comparison to many we had toured. Our guide was very knowledgeable and answered any questions we had. The walled garden was enjoyable to walk thru despite the rain. The fruit we purchased in the garden hut was very delicious after our tea!
Brittiany M — Google review
Great time had, while they went inside for the guided tour, myself and the dog enjoyed the outdoors. The guided tour took about 2 hours, while we sat outdoors on picnic benches at the cafe. They loved the tour and the guide knew her stuff. Very impressive castle inside and out. Disabled parking right at entrance or your in the main car park 5-10 mins walk down a hill
A M — Google review
I wasn't sure about our tour guide at first, honestly. But wow, they were amazing! The whole tour was hilarious thanks to their sarcastic and charming personality. Definitely made the experience 100% better. Beautiful castle inside and out.
Cloud S — Google review
Amazing place. Great tour of the castle. Tours run every 45mins. Nice cafe and shop. The gardens are nice to walk around.
Ryan S — Google review
What a beautiful castle! And the guided tour was amazing! It was totally worth it and I definitely recommend a visit!
Sónia R — Google review
Great place to visit you can only go round the inside of the castle as part of a guided tour witch we didn't mind because you get to understand the history of the place instead of just walking around looking at things our guide was very knowledgeable and great at telling us all about the castle through the years I definitely recommend a visit
Val T — Google review
Beautiful grounds to walk around. The tours are guided but worth it as it was very informative. Would recommend a visit.
Clare M — Google review
4.7
(1610)
•
4.5
(301)
Fyvie, Turriff, AB53 8JS, United Kingdom
http://www.nts.org.uk/Fyvie-Castle
+44 1651 891266
19

The Falls of Feugh Restaurant

Mentioned on 
+26 other lists 
$$$$affordable
Restaurant
The Falls of Feugh Restaurant offers a stylish and riverside dining experience, serving British and eclectic cuisine made from Scottish produce. The menu features dishes like burger, lambs liver, and steak & haggis pie. In addition to the delicious food, they also offer afternoon tea. The restaurant provides a great selection of beverages including beers, wine, Diet Coke, and cappuccinos. Guests can also indulge in delightful desserts such as brownies and sundaes.
We have been before and their food is amazing. This time we only stopped for a take away coffee. No Dogs but we sat outside and had our coffee. Really nice coffee well worth it just for that. Just be aware of the road outside as it’s a busy junction and people are not paying attention!
Matt H — Google review
Have visited twice now. Once for coffee & cake and once on a Sunday for food. Cool place with a relaxed vibe and great views. Food was great too. All home made stuff. Dog friendly.
L. F — Google review
Amazing food at the Falls of Feugh Restaurant. I only went to have the highly recommended Cullen Skink, which is truly amazing. This then led onto the Venison Stew and the Strawberry and Lime Cheese Cake to finish. Summer body can wait until next summer. 😆
Paul E — Google review
We had a beautiful lunch. The weather was sunny and cool, the flowers were blooming, the ambiance was relaxing and refined, service was wonderful, and lunch was delicious. I'm so glad we made a reservation here.
Katie A — Google review
We chose the Falls of Feugh as our wedding venue and had the most wonderful day. The food was absolutely incredible—so many of our guests commented on how delicious everything was. The team were great and went out of their way to accommodate our requests. On the day itself, the staff went above and beyond to make everything run smoothly. We’re so grateful for their kindness and professionalism. Thank you for making our day so special.
F H — Google review
Fantastic real Scottish dishes. The best Cullen skink I've ever had, followed by perfectly-cooked venison loin served with beef stovies potato and seasonal vegetables.
George C — Google review
Impromptu visit on a Sunday to get out and enjoy the warm mild weather, we turnt up just before they closed but they were still very happy to serve us tea and cakes, a beautiful calm spot, well sheltered and scenic. The staffs were very friendly and the food was delicious. We had tea and a couple of tray bake slices and shared a scone, everything was lovely. We will be coming back for a proper meal here soon. Prices were very reasonable. Parking onsite or just across the road. Dog friendly outside.
Wizzit1st — Google review
Lovely staff. It was my birthday and they were very kind and made it very special. I also have a nut and peanut allergy and they were very reassuring. We didn’t have any cash and couldn’t tip with card machine unfortunately but we will remember next time! Recommend!
Christy L — Google review
4.6
(563)
•
4.2
(344)
Bridge of Feugh, Banchory, AB31 6NL, United Kingdom
http://www.thefallsoffeugh.com/
+44 1330 824171
20

Crathes Castle, Garden & Estate (National Trust for Scotland)

Mentioned on 
+30 other lists 
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Crathes Castle is a 16th-century castle adorned with turrets, gargoyles, and painted ceilings. The estate features ancient yew hedges and a croquet court, along with stunning walled gardens influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement. Visitors can explore the castle's interior to see historical artifacts such as the Horn of Leys, gifted by King Robert the Bruce. Additionally, recent excavations have revealed ancient evidence of occupation on the site dating back thousands of years.
Wowzer. What an amazing garden! This is a must see walled garden. It’s exceptional. The castle is interesting too since it features many of the older sections unlike some of the other castles. It would be nice if they’d add a recorded tour at some point, but the signage was good. All in all it was a great stop. I only wished we’d left more time to walk some of the wooded trails.
Leslie G — Google review
The sun was splitting the sky today so we decided to visit Crathes Castle & Estate. The location was very busy as there were extra activities on in the grounds, bouncy things of several shapes and sizes, face painting, arts and crafts etc. It Is a self guided tour through the castle going up one set of very tight circular stairs and returning back down to ground level on a second set of stairs. You do need good mobility to manage these stairs. All the rooms were temperature and humidity controlled to try and preserve the fabrics and furnishings within each room. All the items were most interesting to see but not as old as those in Glamis castle. One advantage of this castle Is that you may take photographs except for one small area. After we completed the tour the heat from the sun guided us to the nearby ice cream vendor followed by a walk around the gardens. The gardens are large and are the home to many exotic plants, trees and shrubs. It Is a full time job for five volunteer gardeners to keep the gardens and grounds in such a wondrous condition. We finished off the day with a quick snack in the cafe. Soft drinks, cakes and cappuccino were enjoyed at a leisurely pace. A great day out, highly recommended.
John R — Google review
What a great castle, so well kept and the staff are so full of knowledge The gardens are fabulous and I would suggest a while day, half day at least in the castle if you want to read all the details and do it justice, then a good couple of hours minimum in the gardens. Also great walks around the area also and. A lovely cafe.
Aman T — Google review
This was an absolutely lovely location to come for a day out. The place was really busy due to a family fun day event being on, but there was still so much open space that you never felt hemmed in or on top of other visitors. The lady in the gift shop, and indeed all of the staff we encountered, were very friendly and happy to help us out. The only sad thing was that, whilst the garden was amazing, me and my wife couldn't go in together because we brought our dog. I feel that it should be the case that as long as your dog is kept on a short lead, is well behaved, and they are picked up after (which should be the case on the whole estate anyway) then they should be allowed in the gardens too. Overall a lovely site to visit.
Samuel M — Google review
i absolutely loved this castle ...the painted ceilings are just amazing ...Standing against a backdrop of rolling hills and set within its own glorious gardens, Crathes Castle provides a memorable experience with its towers, turrets and stories of its resident ghosts. King Robert the Bruce granted the lands of Leys to the Burnett family in 1323: the ancient Horn of Leys, which can be seen today in the Great Hall, marks his gift. Inside you’ll find a labyrinth of cultural history, from family portraits to fine antique furniture. The walled garden is a wonderful jungle of history, split into eight sections that encompass every green delight imaginable a sculpted topiary, soft herbaceous colours and modern exotic blooms. The massive yew hedges are thought to have been planted as early as 1702. Crathes Castle Estate was once part of the Royal Forest of Drum. Today there are a range of waymarked and clearly signposted trails. Look out for wildlife along the way – you may see red squirrels, woodpeckers and herons.
Warren B — Google review
We are having a family holiday in Crathes. My wife and I have spent the last two days driving to here, so were pleased of a quiet day. After breakfast, we walked along the Deeside Way, a relatively flat walk from Aberdeen to Ballater, which was as far as the Deeside Railway went. Queen Victoria didn't want the railway to spoil the countryside around Balmoral. We soon came across Crathes signal box now a private residence and the remains if the platforms. Walking on, we came to a fork, with the Deeside Way going left over a pack horse bridge or right, under the road. Little did we realise what a difference taking the right fork would make. Continuing on our walk we came across the Milton of Crathes, a selection of independent shops. From here, we passed some railway carriages and still no signs directing us to the castle. Eventually, we came out beside the main road at Banchory, nearly four Mike's away. It was a very day and would get hotter as the day went on. We asked a local lad which way to the castle and he directed us up a road. It was not the main entrance but one used countries ago. It was a long uphill climb through the welcoming shade of huge trees of all descriptions. Eventually, we arrived at the castle and it looked very different to other castles we have visited. The castle is steeped in history, the one notable thing being it was lived in by the same family for centuries. We had a walk around inside, partly to cool off and partly to find out more about its history. We had a fascinating journey throughout most of the castle. The most fascinating were the painted ceilings, especially the Room of the Nine Nobles, based on great heroes from the past and the Muses' Room, with paintings of nine Muses and seven Virtues. From here, we walked to the cafe to get refreshments, but could believe the scores of wasps making most families lives a misery. In all my years, I have never so many wasps in one place. We drank up and departed for the welcoming shade of a hirse chestnut tree where we ate our lunch. From here, we walked down to the garden where a token allows families access to the gardens. The tokens can be collected from the main desk. The garden is a place of wonder, as with every turn, you see something different and interesting. You can see the castle from different angles which is a treat. Considering the hot sommer we are experiencing, the gardeners have produced a magnificent show for everyone. It seemed every colour was on view, depending on the flowers and which garden beds we were at. We even passed a couple getting married in a centre piece of the garden. We were intrigued by two large bushes close together at the side nearest the castle. It was while we were sat in the gsrden entrance building that we found the answer. The trees were planted in the 1700, and clipped in what we would describe as small urns. (They obviously had some meaning!!) Today, one is an egg sitting on a eggcup and the other is waiting for an egg. We much prefer the latter version. From here, we walked down the main path, the white trail, to the main entrance , stopping to look at the Highland cattle. We came across a bridge which I guess would have been part of the old road. Underneath, water from the large pond flowed down to the river. We followed a path and lo and behold came out at the road bridge we saw earlier on. We were no walking home knowing we didn't have as long a walk as this morning. By now, the heat was building, so a shorter walk was very welcome. Crathes Castle is an interesting place to visit, with lots of space to run around. There is a children's play area and well behaved dogs are welcomed. Crathes Castle has a cafe catering for all tastes and a great gift shop, selling a range of gifts and food.
Anthony H — Google review
We didn't go to the castle but WHAT a garden! We went twice and even in the space of 10 days there were different things to see. Absolute must for garden enthusiasts, whether you enjoy the formal topiary or the amazing themed borders. We chatted for a long time with the volunteers, who were very informative. Will happily come back again and again.
Ian L — Google review
Crathes is my favourite castle in the Shire. There are so many woodland trails as well as the incredible walled garden and an atmospheric cafe. The gardens-only tickets cost £7.50 per person, plus £5 for all day parking. The gardens aren't dog friendly, but the rest of the estate is.
Michaela C — Google review
4.6
(3101)
•
4.4
(833)
Crathes, Banchory, AB31 5QJ, United Kingdom
http://www.nts.org.uk/property/crathes-castle-garden-and-estate/
+44 1330 844525
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21

Glen Garioch Distillery

Mentioned on 
+11 other lists 
Distillery
Food & Drink
Nestled in the picturesque Garioch valley, Glen Garioch Distillery stands as a testament to Scotland's rich whisky heritage. Established in 1797, it proudly claims the title of one of the oldest distilleries still in operation today and is recognized as the most easterly Scotch Whisky distillery globally. Just a short drive from Aberdeen, this charming spot offers visitors an immersive experience with guided tours available Monday through Saturday.
Great Tour with fab tour guide Iona. She was really engaging and knowledgeable. This was a fascinating insight into the whole malt whisky making processes. Tour concluded with a cracking tasting session. Came away better informed, ‘warmer’ and happily lighter of pocket after picking up a bottle of very reasonably priced Glen Garioch 12. Whole experience was superb value for money.
John C — Google review
I had the pleasure of visiting Glen Garioch Distillery after a quick stay at Meldrum House. Initially, I thought this was just a convenient visit but it turned out to be so much more. Everyone here was super welcoming and accommodating. Even though I didn't had time for a tour, I was able to bottle my own Sherry Butt 2198! Didn't get her name but kudos to the wonderful lady who guided me the bottling!
Alex N — Google review
Me and my boyfriend are from Argentina. We did the whisky tour few days ago. Hazel was out tour guide. The whole experience was amazing, and Hazel was very clear in her explanations (which was very important for us since we are foreigners) and also very very kind. She didn't do everything on a rush and took her time to explain everything very clearly and in detail. The rest of the staff was also very thoughtful and kind. The distillery is very beautiful and the whisky is excellent! Great experience for us in Glen Garioch.
Milena T — Google review
We absolutely loved our tour at Glen Garioch Distillery! It was such an amazing experience. Our guide, Eddie, explained everything so clearly and with great enthusiasm. We learned a lot and enjoyed every moment. Highly recommend this tour – we left truly impressed and delighted!
Valeriia K — Google review
BWhat an experience! One of my best tours in a distillery ! Eddie was super nice, very engaging and so charismatic ! I definitely would go back but this time in winter when they are actually producing this beautiful and rich single malt. ❤️ and the best part is that you get to taste 3 samples! Don’t worry if you are driving or not drinking that day, you can let them know and they will give you a “to go” dose. ☺️
Gabriela C — Google review
Great tour and delicious whisky. Highlight is that they do their own malting - almost no one else does that! Good access to several areas and nice tasting at the end
Derek Z — Google review
Great Tour! Thx to J(G)ill. Great Experience and good prize for Sample! We come back! More Bourbon Cask please! Thx For all
Mark E — Google review
Stuart was excellent, explained the processes and history with charm and a great sense of humor whilst being full of facts and knowledge along the way. Great experience and a warm staff throughout. Recommend the Warehouse 4 Experience.
Andrew T — Google review
4.9
(179)
•
5.0
(214)
Distillery Rd, Oldmeldrum, Inverurie AB51 0ES, United Kingdom
https://www.glengarioch.com/experiences
+44 1651 873450
22

St Cyrus National Nature Reserve - viewpoint

Mentioned on 
+7 other lists 
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
St Cyrus National Nature Reserve is a stunning coastal sanctuary nestled between the sea and towering volcanic cliffs. The reserve boasts a long stretch of sandy beach, picturesque dunes, and vibrant grasslands adorned with colorful flowers, creating an inviting environment for both wildlife and visitors. Expect to encounter a diverse array of creatures including butterflies, seals, dolphins, and peregrine falcons. The Beach Trail leads to a captivating viewpoint before continuing along the beach.
Beautifu viewpoint with a lonf steep path leading diwn to the beach. Parking there is limited, we parked in the new lot across from the church and walked the short distance to the cliff.
Chrystal S — Google review
Situated near north of Montrose is spectacular costal reserve from its rocky shore lines to dramatic cliffs, beautiful coast line to walk starting from Visitor centre. Free car park.
Kamms S — Google review
Fantastic views, easy parking ❤️. A steep but scenic walk down to the beach. A beautiful long sandy beach.
Lisa M — Google review
Beautiful beach , lovely cafe at the beginning Little gallery Toilets Big car park
Emma G — Google review
A lovely day made it outstanding. If you are in the area then take the time to visit and walk along the beach. Chill time
Gary H — Google review
What a stunning place. The sea was fiece when we visited. Lovely visitors centre, great walks. Good parking, motorhomes can stay overnight and they have an elsan point.
Dion F — Google review
Beautiful view, lots of wildlife and wildflowers. You'll meet lots of dogs, rabbits and find blooming thistles within the bushes. The cliffside is very sudden so don't allow your child or dog run off. The trail is very easy if there's no mobility issues.
Shannon Q — Google review
Beautiful quiet beach, clean golden sand - lovely for a trip day or night
Josh B — Google review
4.8
(1337)
•
4.8
(164)
Beach Rd, St Cyrus, Montrose DD10 0AQ, United Kingdom
http://www.nature.scot/st-cyrus
23

BrewDog DogTap

Mentioned on 
2 lists 
$$$$affordable
Restaurant
BrewDog is a brewery located in Ellon, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It is one of the most technologically advanced breweries in the world and regularly features guest beers from various breweries around the world. The DogTap at BrewDog serves up wood-fired pizzas as well as a wide variety of craft beers.
Here my father was in his element and thoroughly enjoyed himself. He had never seen so many different beers on tap in one place. This is heaven :-) I tried the beer tasting board and it was great. The food was tasty too, the burger matched the beer exactly. This place is a must visit for any lover of good beer. Greetings from a beer drinker from the Czech Republic.
Zdeněk F — Google review
We’d been looking forward to visiting BrewDog for a long time and it was absolutely worth the wait! From the moment we walked into the restaurant, we felt like kids in a candy store. The design is incredible, with attention to every little detail. Our waitress Sammy was so lovely ,she took the time to explain all the different beers with such patience and kindness. Later, we joined the brewery tour led by Lisa, who was simply amazing ,funny, cheerful and full of energy. She really made the whole experience even more enjoyable! We’ve been to quite a few breweries around the world, but this one was by far the most fun and unique. Thank you for everything! Highly recommend to anyone visiting!
Noa L — Google review
Best burger ever? Might just be! Now we are back in Aberdeenshire, we stopped by BrewDog DogTap and tried the ETFB burger — honestly, incredible. Double smashed patties, bacon, cheese, jammy onions, candied jalapeños… every bite was unreal. So much flavour and just the right mix of sweet, spicy, and crispy. This for us was one of the best burgers we have tasted, and we have had many around the globe. Paired it with a pint of Punk IPA and it was perfect. The waitress suggested some beers for my wife and offered tasters to help her choose. Much better than expected (even though I’ve just been in the Dubai venue). If you like a big, messy, proper burger — this one’s worth the trip!
Andrew M — Google review
Visited today all the way from Brisbane Australia where we have had the great experience for flavour before. Staff were very polite and accommodating, such a huuuge venue food was amazing totally recommended.
Dawn G — Google review
We came for the brewery tour and we had a wonderful time with Lisa who takes us around the different parts of the brewery and tell us a lot of enjoyable stories along the way. She gives us interesting facts and stories about the brewery from its beginning to now. It's was a really great moment with nice beers (yes, plural) to enjoy during the visit. We also stayed for lunch and the burger and breakfast were great!
Cyprien G — Google review
At a conference in Aberdeen. Wanted some fresh air so went to see the seals at nearby beach. Realised this was nearby. Friendly service, speedy great Mexican burger and Punk discount. Didn't fell awkward eating on my own at all.
Chris C — Google review
There was a lot of gluten free options to choose from. Food was very good. All of the staff were friendly and approachable. I want to give a particular mention to our server (Meghan). She had great customer service skills. Nothing was too much trouble for her.. it’s good to experience great customer service as it can be a rarity in this day and age.
Samantha H — Google review
Sarah our server was so helpful and gave us good info on the menu …… top class
Fraser D — Google review
4.5
(1192)
•
4.5
(343)
Unit Balmacassie Industrial Estate, Ellon, AB41 8BX, United Kingdom
https://www.brewdog.com/dogtap-ellon
+44 1358 724933
24

Dunnottar Castle

Mentioned on 
+61 other lists 
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Dunnottar Castle is a historic fortress located on a cliff overlooking the North Sea in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The castle has a rich and eventful history, having been attacked by Vikings, visited by notable figures like William Wallace and Mary Queen of Scots, and serving as the stronghold of the powerful Earls Marischal. Its dramatic setting and impressive ruins make it a popular tourist attraction, often described as breathtaking and mysterious.
What an amazing castle! Definitely worth the visit. The views are stunning and a great day out. You can walk on opposite hills and get great views of the castle and surrounding monuments. There are a lot of steps to get to the castle, but there are rails and enough passing places when busy. There are no dustbins in the castle, so you need to take your goodies back with you. I would recommend taking some food with, as the gardens are so peaceful, its a great place to have a picnic and enjoy the peace. One of my top 10 castles in Scotland!
Jacques — Google review
This is a must see Castle if your in the area. Well maintained by the staff that is friendly and informative. Be mindful that if your mobility is limited that there are several areas of stairs and steps that are irregular and steep. There are also some cobble stone walk ways that might be difficult for some. Loved our visit here and the views are spectacular.
Ron T — Google review
This place is beautiful. I did not go inside as had other prior commitments. If you go give yourself several hours to explore as wonderful trails on cliffs and several stairs to get to castle. A must see if in Scotland!!
Karla C — Google review
Dunnottar Castle is honestly one of the most breathtaking places in Scotland. Perched high on the cliffs above the North Sea, it feels like stepping straight into history. The ruins are full of atmosphere, and the views from every angle are just stunning. The walk down and back up can be a bit steep, but totally worth it for the experience. It’s usually peaceful early in the morning, and watching the waves crash below the castle walls is something you’ll never forget. A must-visit near Stonehaven!
Marko “ — Google review
An impressive place. Unfortunately, in winter the castle is only open from 10:00 to 15:00. But even from the outside the surrounding landscapes and the castle itself look fantastic. There is a waterfall and caves nearby. On the coast, if you are lucky you can see seals. Although we were not lucky. I recommend taking the coastal path to the nearest town Stonehaven. You will get an unforgettable experience.
Ольга С — Google review
Wonderful castle ruins overlooking the sea! The walk down to the castle is easy however there are quite a few stairs leading up to the entrance. Ticketing was easy and clear directions on the route you should take to see everything. We also hiked along the beach and took a small trail which wrapped back around to the castle. Lovely shots along the way.
Brittiany M — Google review
Very well kept castle and quite a lot to see and on a large site. A lot bigger than expected with lots to read and some great history and story’s to catch up on. Could be a bit exposed on a wet day. Toilets on site and well worth the £13 entrance fee. Well worth a visit.
Matt H — Google review
Magical place with amazing views. If you like ruins and nature this is the right place to visit. Loved everything. It felt like a Game of Thrones setting.
Jade B — Google review
4.8
(12650)
•
4.8
(3424)
Stonehaven, AB39 2TL, United Kingdom
https://www.dunnottarcastle.co.uk/
+44 1569 766320
25

David Welch Winter Gardens

Mentioned on 
+19 other lists 
Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
The David Welch Winter Gardens, located within Duthie Park, is a spacious greenhouse complex that showcases diverse plant and flower displays. This family-friendly park offers open green spaces, two play parks for kids of different ages, a sports court for various activities, and charming Victorian elements such as a bandstand and boating ponds. The park is easily accessible on foot or by e-bike from the city center.
Came here yesterday with my wife, daughter and some of her friends. Was really peaceful and the kids loved looking at all the flowers, the big frog and spike the cactus who had a wee blether with them and they were singing songs. Such a lovely place to come for a variety of different reasons ☺️
Andrew C — Google review
Beautiful indoor gardens – perfect all year round. A stunning collection of tropical, arid, and exotic plants in a peaceful glasshouse setting. Well-maintained, with themed areas like the cactus house and Japanese garden. Great place to relax, take photos, or explore with family. Free entry and located within Duthie Park – a true gem in Aberdeen.
Chathura M — Google review
This stunning winter garden is located inside Duthie Park. An assortment of glasshouses display superb botanical examples from a diverse range of environments, from arid to tropical, and most continents. Plants are of the most pristine quality and housed in immaculate conditions. Excellent place and well worth a visit. Highly recommended. 👍👍👍
D F — Google review
Cool place especially for those who are more interested in plants and stuff. The kind of 'did you know' plates were fun! The only thing i can have a little but is that not all of the plants are taken care of the way they should be
Maja S — Google review
A must visit place if you like conservatories and flora fauna varieties. Very well kept and maintained place with great number of plant species. I was amazed to see the quality of the plants in a cold climate like Scotland has. Beautiful flowers and some really oddball plants and trees. Someone has seriously put aome good thought into it and the staff seems to maintain it well too. No entry fee, but it’s run on donations. Takes about an hour to get through it. Will surely visit again!
Huzefa M — Google review
I love the botanical gardens in Aberdeen - one of my favourite places to visit! I would really recommend to anyone who is here - even for a few days. To top it off, it's also completely free and family-friendly. Seriously, one of my favourite botanical garden in Scotland. The cacti area is a must see - it always amazes guests. The adjacent cafe is also quite cute and has good sweets/dessert. I think it would make a great place for a first date!
Sara M — Google review
Wow. What an amazing winter wonderland. Sharing with you all some amazing pics which I took yesterday....
Jb J — Google review
Absolutely fabulous place to visit. Well worth a donation to keep it open to the public. Immaculately kept plants that were interesting to see and well labelled. The cafe was great to visit too with a great vegan cake selection for people with intollerances.
Ann B — Google review
4.8
(671)
•
4.6
(1085)
Polmuir Road, Aberdeen, AB11 7TH, United Kingdom
https://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/services/environment/parks/duthie-park
+44 1224 053405
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26

Duthie Park

Mentioned on 
+63 other lists 
Park
Nature & Parks
Duthie Park is a stunning Victorian-era gem nestled in the south of Aberdeen, offering an expansive 44 acres of lush greenery along the picturesque banks of the River Dee. This beloved park is perfect for families and nature lovers alike, featuring sprawling lawns, engaging playgrounds for children, and both indoor and outdoor gardens that showcase a variety of flora. One highlight not to be missed is the enchanting Winter Gardens—a tropical haven that provides a warm escape from Scotland's chillier weather.
Duthie Park in Aberdeen is one of the city's most popular and beautiful green spaces. Opened in 1883, the park is known for its expansive open spaces, scenic walking paths, and beautifully maintained gardens. It offers a variety of attractions, including the David Welch Winter Gardens, one of the largest indoor gardens in Europe, where visitors can explore exotic plants from around the world. The park also features a boating pond, children's play areas, and ornamental ponds, making it a great destination for families. Its Victorian design, complete with statues and floral displays, adds a touch of historical charm. Duthie Park is perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities, providing a peaceful escape close to the city center.
Cezarina N — Google review
Duthie Park Winter Gardens is such a unique and beautiful spot for a wedding! Lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and the most gorgeous natural light—it’s like stepping into a little tropical paradise in the heart of Aberdeen. The atmosphere is so relaxed and romantic, making it the perfect backdrop for capturing love stories. Easily one of my favourite spots to photograph, and it never disappoints!
Samantha C — Google review
Peaceful and Beautiful Family Spot Duthie Park is a charming green oasis in Aberdeen—immaculately kept, with lovely flower beds, wide lawns, and serene pathways. The highlight is the breathtaking David Welch Winter Gardens, perfect for a nature escape. Great for family strolls, picnics, or quiet relaxation. Free to visit and easily accessible—highly recommended!
Chathura M — Google review
I have never been to Duthie Park despite going to school in Bridge of Don and visiting family in the city over the years. I forgot there is a winter garden and I was impressed by how lovely it was. Enjoyed the cafe too - great coffee and lovely cakes
Elaine J — Google review
I absolutely loved the Winter Garden on a cold and grey November Saturday morning. Sadly the talking Cactus had a weekend off but this didn't dull the fun for my 2 young grand daughters. Just a lovely peaceful place to sit in.
Colin S — Google review
Good place to walk, jogging, relax, play arrears, cycling etc etc… Also specially the “Temperature House” bring a huge value the place.
Lahiru R — Google review
Was great, I was up there when doing the kilt walk an was really nice despite the heavy rain had lovely day an beautiful sites an things to do an close to shops also, ado recommend going if get the chance people were really warm an friendly
EL G — Google review
Amazingly calm and has it's own charm specially the covered winter garden in it. Feel like lost in the warmth of the nature. Be there with kids, dogs, friends or alone... doesn't matter. It's a lovely place to be. Recommended. Special note - if you aren't aware of it's history then do find out while you are there. 😊🙏🏻👍🏻 ❤️
Anil R — Google review
4.7
(4490)
•
4.5
(571)
Polmuir Road, Aberdeen, AB11 7BH, United Kingdom
https://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/services/leisure-culture-and-parks/parks/duthie-park
+44 1224 585310
27

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Mentioned on 
+76 other lists 
Maritime museum
Museums
Specialty Museums
The Aberdeen Maritime Museum, situated in the historic Shiprow district, offers an immersive experience into the city's maritime heritage and its significant role in the North Sea oil and gas industry. Housed in the intriguing 16th-century Provost Ross's House, this museum showcases a diverse collection of models, photographs, and paintings that chronicle the evolution of the Dee estuary's port and depict the challenging lives of whale-hunters, herring fishermen, and North Sea traders.
Visited the Aberdeen Maritime Museum on a quiet Monday afternoon and had a truly enjoyable experience. The receptionist was incredibly warm and welcoming, setting a positive tone for the visit. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, blending the city’s rich maritime heritage with fascinating displays that appeal to all ages. It’s a gem tucked in the heart of Aberdeen and a perfect way to spend a few reflective hours. Entry is free which is amazing for what you get, but I do encourage visitors to donate 💰 if they can to support the continued care and presentation of this beautiful museum. You may have to wait a tiny little queue if it’s a busy day, staff are always ready to help on each floor with a smile. They have pamphlets for non-English speakers, so no excuse for you not to go. It is accessible for all abilities as long as there is an assigned carer to assist throughout your visit. This is one of the places you want to bring children and young adults to see what history and beauty this place holds and preserves. Highly recommend! ✨✨ Titi ❤️
Titilayo A — Google review
I really enjoyed my visit to the museum. It was a great way to learn about not only maritime facts such as oil rigs and ships but also Aberdeen history. All the displays were done with great care and the exhibitions were very informative. The view to the port was also splendid and the gift shop selection was nice.
Kitti S — Google review
An excellent experience. An easy walk from the Railway Station. This museum is free, but you can donate by card or cash. Very friendly staff and an amazing space over five floors and three buildings. The museum features the maritime history of the area as well as the oil and gas industry. It also features exhibits on occasion. A reasonably priced gift shop featuring local souvenirs. I would visit here if you have an interest in maritime history, but is interesting for those who aren't.
Mark C — Google review
Lovely museum, lovely architecture. The cherry on the cake was the free guided tour tough, offered by knowledgeable and utmost kind Robert who made it special by picking a particular parts and making his lecture around these. Learned a lot and in a very friendly atmosphere, many thanks!!
Radka B — Google review
A visit worth taking while in Aberdeen (or if residing here). Deployed in 4 floors, illustrates the history of Aberdeen shipbuilding and UK offshore drilling off Scotland coast. The abundance of wood all around creates a really cozy environment. Allow >1 hour to tour as it’s really interesting.
Manolis L — Google review
Can’t believe this amazing place is free! 😍 I love museums...they always take us back in time and make us feel part of history. The displays, ship models, and harbour views here were just beautiful. 🌊⚓️ The Aberdeen Maritime Museum, located on Shiprow overlooking the harbour, is one of the city’s most fascinating free attractions. It’s housed in a blend of historic and modern buildings, including Provost Ross’s House, which dates back to 1593. The museum beautifully showcases Aberdeen’s deep connection with the sea — from shipbuilding and fishing to the modern North Sea oil and gas industry. One of its main highlights is the impressive 9-metre model of the Murchison oil platform, along with intricate ship models, artefacts, and interactive displays spread across four floors. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the harbour from the upper galleries, making it a perfect mix of history, culture, and coastal charm. 🌊⚓️
SHILPA S — Google review
Lovely area, a good way to undertake the deep history of Aberdeen trading and oil exploration, week preserved pieces of history, kept in good viewing condition, a good place for visitors on sightseeing and exploratory training.
Kelechi O — Google review
I haven’t been here since I was a kid. Excellent displays presented very well in a fantastic building. Very informative and paints a great picture of Aberdeen’s fascinating fishing and oil industry past. What a way to spend a few hours. I especially loved the gigantic Murchison platform which fills several floors of the building, the working lighthouse mechanism and the models of boats. The view across the harbour is phenomenal!!
Andy M — Google review
4.6
(2802)
•
4.6
(1925)
Shiprow, Aberdeen, AB11 5BY, United Kingdom
https://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/AAGM/plan-your-visit/aberdeen-maritime-museum
+44 300 020 0293
28

Footdee

Mentioned on 
+38 other lists 
Neighborhoods
Footdee, a charming fishing village situated at the eastern end of Aberdeen, is famous for its delightful cottages, narrow winding streets, and scenic harbor. Despite its prominent location, many visitors often overlook this hidden gem.
4.5
(1121)
Aberdeen, AB11 5DQ, UK
29

Admiralty Gateway

Temporarily Closed
Apartment complex
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Admiralty Gateway is a vibrant hub that seamlessly blends modernity with cultural richness. This destination offers an array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it a perfect spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors can explore unique boutiques, savor diverse cuisines at various eateries, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. With its strategic location and accessibility, Admiralty Gateway serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding attractions.
5.0
(1)
•
4.8
(122)
2 Towerhill, Peterhead, AB42 2GP, United Kingdom
+44 1779 482200
30

Peterhead Prison Museum

Mentioned on 
15 lists 
History museum
Museums
Step into the past at Peterhead Prison Museum, a 19th-century prison that offers a self-guided audio tour. Often referred to as Scotland's own Alcatraz, this notorious prison was the site of significant events, including a siege that required intervention by the SAS. The museum provides insight into life for both inmates and guards through recorded testimonies and exhibits.
Visited on a Saturday and took the 12:30 guided tour of the Prison. There were about 12 or so people on the tour, and the guide was an ex-prison officer. You can just go through the museum yourself wearing headphones to hear a commentary, but I would highly recommend you take the guided tour because you will hear so much more about the prison and it’s inmates from someone who actually worked there along with some great anecdotes. Plus you can ask questions too that you wouldn’t be able to if you go self-guided… Our guide was very good. Guided tour lasted 1 & 1/2 hrs and there’s a cafe at the end, serving a great selection of meals,cakes,snacks and hot and cold drinks. Very reasonably priced too. There is also a lifeboat museum within the prison to visit too. Definitely worth visiting the museum and taking the guided tour option. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
David K — Google review
Brilliant experience. Well recommend to visit. Staff were so helpful and amazing. There was no problem at all to leave my stuff save with them. Lots to see and learn. I’ve just went myself with audio headset and enjoyed everything. There is so much to see, but I’ll not be spoiling it with photos. Thank you !
Mariusz P — Google review
A really great museum with helpful and friendly staff. The audio tour was interesting and kept my kids, aged 7, entertained for about an hour and a half. They have short attention spans and get fed up easily, so this was a good achievement!
Claire T — Google review
This was a surprisingly fantastic venue to visit for all ages of the party from 7 years old to 67 years! You can go at your own pace, the route is clearly marked out and the extra kids puzzle kit kept them engaged with their surroundings. Definitely recommended as an easy way to kill a few hours with the family.
Joanne M — Google review
Very interesting visit. Audio guided tour gave insight as to how prisoners were treated and the way they were treated. The cells were spartan to sat the least, allied to a very tough regime I felt claustrophobic after the 90 minutes tour!
Joseph G — Google review
What a unique museum to visit with fantastic staff. David,our guide, was a prison guard a few years after the infamous riot. His dry humour and Doric twang was great. Seeing the prison was such an interesting experience, I am really glad I went along. You can choose to have a tour with a guide which is slightly more expensive or an audio tour. I would recommend paying for the guide as they will be able to answer your questions about daily life within the small group they take around. After they have given you the tour you are allowed to explore the prison yourself after being left at the Cafe at the end. I would leave yourself some time after the tour to go around and take it all in. There are a lot of newspaper cuttings and various things the prisoners and guards have put together after doing further research of the prison's history. If you are in Aberdeenshire go and see it, not many other places like it.
Tom — Google review
Loved it... Have been before but its really great to go and look around so did the tour with some italian friends had a really nice day really pleasant and friendly staff too 😊 great 👍
Paul D — Google review
Great guided tour! The tour guide was very knowledgeable (great being toured by someone who worked there when it was in use as a prison). Really educational and fascinating! Entrance toilets were lovely and clean and the staff were all really friendly and helpful! Highly recommend visiting here as a tourist or as a local!
Brontë M — Google review
4.8
(1977)
•
4.9
(1377)
South Rd, Peterhead, AB42 2ZX, United Kingdom
https://peterheadprisonmuseum.com/
+44 1779 581060
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