Aberdeenshire is a diverse and stunning region in the northeastern Scottish Highlands, known for its dramatic coastline, royal history, castles, whisky, and outdoor adventures. While part of Aberdeenshire extends into the Highlands, much of it includes rolling farmland, historic towns, and the city of Aberdeen.
Top Things to See & Do in Aberdeenshire
Castle Country – Over 260 Castles!
Aberdeenshire is known as “Scotland’s Castle Country”, home to more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the UK. Some must-visit ones include:
Balmoral Castle – The Royal Family’s Scottish retreat, open to visitors in the summer.
Dunnottar Castle – A stunning cliff-top ruin near Stonehaven, with epic sea views.
Crathes Castle – A fairy-tale tower house with beautiful gardens.
Fyvie Castle – A grand 13th-century fortress with a fascinating history.
Coastal Beauty & Fishing Villages
Stonehaven – A charming seaside town with an outdoor seawater pool and nearby Dunnottar Castle.
Pennan & Crovie – Tiny, picturesque fishing villages with houses right on the water’s edge.
Newburgh Beach – Home to a large seal colony.
Slains Castle – Said to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
Whisky & The Malt Whisky Trail
Speyside extends into parts of Aberdeenshire, meaning world-famous whisky distilleries are nearby:
GlenDronach – Known for its rich, sherried whisky.
Royal Lochnagar – A small but historic distillery near Balmoral Castle.
Macduff Distillery – Produces the lesser-known but delicious Deveron whisky.
Outdoor Adventures & Nature
Cairngorms National Park – The southern part of Aberdeenshire includes this outdoor paradise, great for hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting.
Bennachie – A famous hill with fantastic views and walking trails.
Loch Muick – A beautiful loch near Balmoral, great for hiking.
Glen Tanar – A peaceful glen with scenic forest walks.
Historic & Cultural Highlights
Aberdeen – Known as the “Granite City,” it has beautiful architecture, sandy beaches, and attractions like Marischal College, Aberdeen Maritime Museum, and Old Aberdeen.
Braemar – Famous for the Braemar Gathering, one of Scotland’s best Highland Games.
Aberdeenshire has a great mix of history, nature, and culture, making it an amazing place to explore.