263

Castles

famous, fairy-tale, ruin or royal, Aberdeenshire has been home to 263 castles

8

Distilleries

whisky distillers have been lovingly producing our whisky for centuries

55

Golf Courses

home to two of the world’s oldest golf courses and the highest in the UK

5

Ski Centres

dive into the Scottish mountains with a choice of five snow sport centres

81

'Taste our Best'

restaurants: full-flavoured, hearty and quality assured food

10

Key Festivals

light, music, dance and culture are celebrated in many ways

2

Old Towns

Old Aberdeen and Footdee, two ancient settlements in the heart of the city

165

Miles of Coast

home to “one of the world’s outstanding coastlines” – National Geographic

1

Royal Home

All seemed to breathe freedom and peace …” - Queen Victoria

1

National Park

The Cairngorms: “one of the last great places on earth” - National Geographic

Aberdeen

It’s a city that looks and feels quite different. The classic granite buildings help make this “one of the most architecturally distinctive cities in Europe” - The Scotsman

Aberdeenshire & Banffshire Coast

The Banffshire coast is “one of the world’s outstanding coastlines” - National Geographic. Not just for its natural beauty with plentiful wildlife, but for its strong community feeling.

Royal Deeside

If successive Royals get to be themselves here – imagine how you will feel. It feels like a deep dive into the glens and ancient forests where Aberdeenshire meets the Cairngorms National Park.

Whisky

Whisky has long been the Scottish ‘water of life’ and our whisky distilleries are busy bottling the essence of this beautiful place.

Castles

Aberdeenshire’s most famous castle is Balmoral – the summer residence of the Royal Family since the 19th century, described by Queen Victoria as “my dear paradise in the Highlands”.

Golf

The panoramic views and elemental power of our courses can take a golfer’s breath away. The UK’s highest golf course is at Braemar in the upper reaches of Royal Deeside.

Festivals & Events

It’s true to say that festivals and events here are especially rooted … in the people and their distinctive Doric culture.

Food & Drink

Full-flavoured, hearty and comforting world-famous Aberdeen Angus beef, seafood and whisky. And, as the home of Brewdog, leading the way in the craft beer revolution.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking, riding, mountain-biking, gliding, skiing, snowboarding, kayaking, surfing, kiteboarding … the list goes on. And then there’s the chance to escape, roam free, and, well, just … br…ea…the.