Sprawling between Cairngorms National Park and the North Sea, Aberdeenshire is one of Scotland’s 32 council areas. It is scattered with archaeological sites dating back to the Bronze Age when the Beaker culture settled in the area and is home to the village of Lumphanan where Macbeth was mortally wounded in 1057.
Things to do in Aberdeenshire
Whether you want to explore the museums of Aberdeen or escape to the wilderness trails of the Cairngorms, Aberdeenshire is a must-see.
Explore Cairngorms National Park. Encompassing five of the United Kingdom’s six highest mountains, Cairngorms National Park lies in the south-west corner of Aberdeenshire. You can experience its magnificent landscapes and ancient fortresses along the 144-kilometre-long SnowRoads Scenic Route or hike along the shores of Loch Muick to the Balmoral Estate lodge of Glas-allt-Shiel. The Glenlivet and Tomintoul area of the Cairngorms is designated as a Dark Sky Park for its exceptional stargazing.
Sightsee in Aberdeen. Nicknamed the “Silver City with the Golden Sands”, Aberdeen is a historic maritime city overlooking the North Sea. Marvel at the fortified architecture of St. Machar’s Cathedral and browse the paintings and metalwork on display at the Aberdeen Art Gallery, then get up close to vintage uniforms and weaponry at the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Watching over the Balnagask Golf Course is the 37-metre-high Girdle Ness Lighthouse.
Visit Dunnottar Castle. Perched atop a rocky headland overlooking the North Sea is Dunnottar Castle, a ruined medieval fortress listed as a Scheduled Monument. It was here that the Scottish crown jewels were hidden from Oliver Cromwell and his army in the 17th century. Admire the 14th-century tower house and the well-preserved palace while enjoying the stunning views across the surrounding coastline.
Getting around Aberdeenshire
Aberdeen International Airport is the main aviation gateway to Aberdeenshire and has flights to destinations across Europe. Trains connect to major towns and cities throughout the area while buses serve destinations not on the railway network. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around Aberdeenshire.