A Guide to Aberdeenshire

Aberdeenshire is a region of dramatic coastlines, royal connections, whisky distilleries and more castles than anywhere else in Scotland. Located in North East Scotland, the area is made up of acres of pretty farmland, heather-clad hills and forested glens taking at the eastern edge of the Cairngorms National Park. Along the coast, dramatic cliffs, sweeping sandy beaches and traditional fishing villages offer contrast to the inland conservation villages, creating a diverse and ever-changing backdrop for exploring the area.

Whether you're dreaming of scenic coastal walks, historic attractions or relaxing time off in a countryside cottage, we will help you discover the many highlights and plan an unforgettable stay. In this guide, we cover Aberdeenshire's famous castles, charming towns and villages to visit, and our top things to do across the region. 

Aberdeenshire cottages

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• Where is Aberdeenshire?
• How many castles are there in Aberdeenshire?
• Towns and villages in Aberdeenshire
• Top things to do in Aberdeenshire
• Map of things to do in Aberdeenshire

Where is Aberdeenshire?

Aberdeenshire is located in the north-east of Scotland, surrounding the city of Aberdeen and stretching from the rugged North Sea coastline inland to the Cairngorms National Park. The region borders Moray to the north west, Angus to the south and Perthshire to the south west, making it an ideal base for exploring both coast and countryside. Easily accessible by car and train, you can travel here easily, and the airport in Aberdeen connects to many locations within the UK, Europe and beyond.

How many castles are there in Aberdeenshire? 

Aberdeenshire is often nicknamed Scotland's Castle Country, with an estimated 260 castles, tower houses and stately homes across the region, including the royal residence itself, Balmoral Castle. This remarkable concentration of historic sites makes it one of the most castle-rich areas in Europe and a major draw for visitors interested in heritage and architecture. From dramatic cliff-top ruins to elegant baronial mansions, exploring these castles is a highlight of any Aberdeenshire holiday. 

Here are some of the most popular castles to visit in Aberdeenshire:

• Balmoral Castle – Ballater, Royal Deeside
• Dunnottar Castle – (castle ruin) near Stonehaven 
• Crathes Castle – near Banchory
• Craigievar Castle – near Alford
• Fyvie Castle – Fyvie, near Turriff

For more on the Aberdeenshire castles, read our guide on the ruined castles of Aberdeenshire.

Towns and villages in Aberdeenshire

Aberdeenshire's towns and villages are wonderfully varied, spanning lively coastal communities, peaceful royal Deeside villages and tiny fishing settlements that feel untouched by time. Each one reveals a different side of the region's character, and you could easily spend days meandering between them, soaking up their individual charm. As you explore, you'll find welcoming pubs, independent cafés and delightful hidden gems, from local galleries and craft shops to traditional bakeries serving regional favourites. Here are some to add to your Scottish itinerary.

Aberdeen

The ever-growing city of Aberdeen, often called the Granite City due to its distinctive grey architecture, is the gateway to Aberdeenshire. It blends urban attractions with easy access to beaches and countryside, making it a popular starting point for visitors. Fly into Aberdeen and stay a couple of nights here before venturing into the countryside.

It's great for museums, shopping centres and has a lively food scene, as well as its long sandy beach and historic Old Aberdeen quarter, where you can explore cobbled streets and the ancient university buildings. The beach promenade is lined with shops, eateries and entertainment centres, and there is a cinema too for those evenings you want to fill with something exciting. The nightlife in Aberdeen is great too, with lots of pubs, bars and nightclubs to enjoy, surrounded by the city's excitable students. It's also a practical base for exploring attractions while enjoying the amenities of a city.

Ballater

Set in the eastern Cairngorms, Ballater is a charming village with strong royal connections thanks to its proximity to Balmoral Castle – the Scottish holiday home of the Royal Family. Despite its small size, Ballater has a thriving high street filled with independent shops, cafés and outdoor gear stores that cater to visitors year-round.

People are drawn to Ballater for its relaxed atmosphere and access to outdoor activities such as walking, cycling and wildlife spotting. As it sits on the eastern edge of the Cairngorms National Park, you will benefit from easy and quick access to all the mountains and wildlife on offer there. The surrounding landscapes offer some of the most picturesque countryside in Aberdeenshire, especially during autumn when the forests turn golden.

Ballater has a fascinating history. It gained Victorian popularity as a spa resort thanks to the Pannanich Wells, where the mineral waters were believed to have healing powers. These wells lie in the woodland near Ballater, reached via a walking route, but they are not an official visitor attraction and are mostly in ruins. The village also once had a royal railway station, used by Queen Victoria and the Monarchs – the restored station building still stands today.

Pennan and Crovie

The neighbouring coastal hamlets of Pennan and Crovie offer a captivating glimpse into Aberdeenshire's fishing heritage, each with its own distinctive character. Pennan is internationally recognised for its starring role in the 1983 film, Local Hero, and visitors still seek out the iconic red telephone box overlooking the harbour. Crovie, by contrast, feels even more remote: its cottages are built in a single line between steep cliffs and the sea, leaving only a narrow footpath in front of the houses. Historically, both villages were tightly knit fishing communities where families relied on the North Sea for their livelihood, and their unusual layouts were shaped by the need to shelter homes from harsh coastal winds and storms.

Today, tourists are drawn to Pennan and Crovie for their unspoilt charm, sweeping sea views and sense of stepping back in time. They're ideal for gentle coastal walks and photography, and wildlife lovers may spot seabirds such as kittiwakes, guillemots and fulmars nesting on the cliffs – with a bit of luck, you might even glimpse dolphins or seals offshore. You can come here to explore the coast, learn about local history, enjoy peaceful picnics and experience a slower pace of life far removed from busier Aberdeenshire resorts.

Stonehaven

The harbour town of Stonehaven combines classic seaside scenery with rich history, set against the dramatic backdrop of cliffs and open sea on Aberdeenshire's coastline. Its picturesque harbour, long sandy beach and close proximity to the iconic Dunnottar Castle make it one of the most popular places to visit in Aberdeenshire. The town has a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, where traditional fishing heritage meets modern cafés, galleries and coastal walking routes.

Visitors often come to Stonehaven to stroll along the promenade, explore the harbour and sample fresh seafood in its many welcoming restaurants and pubs, several of which overlook the water. Wildlife enthusiasts can also be rewarded here, with regular sightings of seabirds along the cliffs and the chance of spotting seals or even dolphins in the North Sea on calm days. Beyond the beach, there's plenty to do: walk or cycle the scenic coastal path to Dunnottar Castle, visit the open-air Stonehaven Harbour and Tolbooth Museum (temporarily closed for maintenance work), or time your visit for local events such as the famous Hogmanay fireball ceremony. 

Top things to do in Aberdeenshire

When going on holiday, it's important to be prepared with a list of things to do that you have previously researched, so you have a family-focused plan of action to use throughout your stay. There are countless things to do in Aberdeenshire, from exploring castles and distilleries to visiting museums and enjoying outdoor adventures. The following highlights showcase the region's most popular experiences, and they will look great on your holiday itinerary.

Dunnotter Castle

Perched dramatically on a cliff-top south of Stonehaven, Dunnotter Castle is one of Scotland's most breathtaking historic sites. Surrounded by steep drops and crashing waves, the ruined fortress looks straight out of a film set. Visitors are drawn here not only for the history but for the spectacular coastal views and photo opportunities. Walking the path down to the castle is an experience in itself, revealing why this dramatic landmark is considered one of the must-see Aberdeenshire attractions.

Royal Lochnagar Distillery

Located near Balmoral on the edge of the Cairngorms and southside of the River Dee, Royal Lochnagar Distillery offers visitors the chance to discover the craft behind one of Scotland's celebrated whiskies. Its royal warrant and scenic setting add to its appeal. Distillery tours are popular with holidaymakers looking to learn about whisky production, sample local flavours and experience a key part of Scotland's cultural heritage. It's an excellent stop when exploring the Royal Deeside area. This experience is best suited to families with older children and couples looking for a sophisticated experience.

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

In the heart of the city, Aberdeen Maritime Museum tells the story of the region's long relationship with the sea, from fishing and shipbuilding to the offshore oil industry. You can enjoy the museum because it provides context for Aberdeenshire's coastal communities and maritime traditions, adding depth to a trip that might otherwise focus solely on castles and countryside. Interactive displays and detailed models make it engaging for all ages, making it a fun trip out for the whole family. Tie this museum in with a visit to the beach, a walk along the promenade and a picnic of fresh fish and chips with views out over the sea.

Family-friendly attractions in Aberdeenshire

Aberdeenshire is a treat for foodies, with lots of locally grown or reared produce, and numerous fantastic restaurants and cafes in which to sample said food.

When travelling with the whole family, it is important to plan an array of activities to suit everyone, from young to old, and Aberdeenshire is a great canvas for all types of adventures. Whether you have a family of little tots or a few teens, there will be something for everyone in the large adventure playground that is Aberdeenshire. Here are some to keep up your sleeve:

Farm Stop: This is a family-run farm situated just outside the city of Aberdeen and is a fun-filled outing for everyone. Here, you can meet all sorts of animals from sheep, cows and pigs, to donkeys, alpacas and ducks. Location: Portlethen, AB12 4RL 

Balmedie Country Park: This lovely country park sits about 8 miles north of Aberdeen and encompasses a sandy beach, heathland, woodland and sand dunes. A well-loved spot for both locals and visitors, this beach provides a lovely place for family walks. Location: Balmedie, AB23 8XG 

Deeside Activity Park: This is an entertainment centre with go-karting, clay pigeon shooting, target shooting and archery on tap. Location: Aboyne, AB34 5BD 

The Long Dog Cafe: Because we know the dog is family too. The Long Dog Café, in Aberdeen's West End, offers up doggy ice cream, pup cups, Pawsecco and a range of tasty treats. If you are lucky, there might be something for you and the kids too. Location: 66 Claremont Street, AB10 6QY 

Map of things to do in Aberdeenshire

With so many fun things to do in Aberdeenshire, you're sure to have a memorable getaway. Here is our handy map showing a fantastic choice of attractions and places to eat.

Stay in a self-catering holiday cottage in Aberdeenshire

With its extraordinary number of castles, scenic coastline, welcoming towns and rich cultural heritage, Aberdeenshire offers a diverse and memorable destination for holidaymakers. For a truly relaxing break, staying in a self-catering holiday cottage provides the perfect base to explore everything the region has to offer.

Browse our collection of cottages in Aberdeenshire to start planning your ideal holiday and experience this captivating corner of Scotland for yourself. From cosy boltholes for couples to comfortable cottages for families, we have something to suit everyone.

Written by Jemima Thompson

Freelance Content Writer

A content writer passionate about inspiring travel and adventures across Scotland.