Kids go for £1 this winter at historic North-east locations
16 December 2022
At the turn of the year, we're all usually too preoccupied with the prospect of celebrating the festivities or Santa's arrival to plan anything else into our busy schedules. But post-Christmas can become a bit of a slog, where we don't really know which way is up or down, never mind how to spend our free time.
To encourage everyone out of their winter hibernation of sitting in front of the TV and snacking on selection boxes before they go off, VisitScotland is running their Great Days Out initiative once again, this winter. This year, the initiative is running in partnership with Historic Environment Scotland (HES), the Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA) and ScotRail to promote discounted visits to some of the most spectacular Scottish locations.
Until 31st March 2023, at Historic Environment Scotland properties, kid’s tickets are just £1, meaning you can enrich those little brains and teach them all about the most iconic historical locations Scotland has to offer.
If you're local to North-east Scotland or planning a trip to the region over the festivities and New Year, then you're in luck. Aberdeenshire is home to three Historic Environment Properties offering discounts for kids – check them out below.
Huntly Castle
Huntly Castle is known for its splendid architecture and rich history. The castle served as a baronial residence for five centuries, and interestingly, the earliest stronghold on the grounds housed Robert the Bruce in the 14th century. Making it the perfect location for any budding history buffs or for keeping the kids learning during the school breaks.
On this location, you will find both the magnificent ruin from the 12th-century motte and the palace block, which was erected by the Gordon family – or Clan Gordon - in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Banchory Lodge
Banchory Lodge sits upon the banks of the world-famous River Dee with a wealth of activities for those who love the outdoors, including shooting, golfing, walking and cycling. If you’re not too afraid to brave being so close to the icy winter waters, this is the perfect location for avid or novice anglers.
Banchory is an ideal escape for the day if you’re looking to use the Great Days Out offer. If you’d like to extend your stay – which we’re sure you will after spending just a few hours here – the hotel has 28 bedrooms plus a private lodge on the grounds with six ensuite bedrooms, a lounge, a dining room and a snug.
Banchory is the ultimate winter playground, with the nearby Scolty Hill being the perfect hike to experience the accessible peaks in the north-east.
Duff House
Duff House is a Georgian mansion designed by Scottish architect William Adam. It contains a collection of some of the most important works from the National Galleries of Scotland and the Magdalene Sharpe Erskine Trust, making it an inspiring location for keeping growing artistic minds full of creative fuel for the school holidays.
All visits to Duff House under the Great Days Out offer will be by guided tour. Very occasionally, the property has to close at short notice due to adverse weather conditions, so please make sure to check the Historic Environment Scotland closure page ahead of your visit, just in case!
For the complete list of discounted activities in the region, visit VisitScotland's website. Embrace winter and get exploring the best of Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire today!
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All information is correct at the time of publishing, we recommend that you check opening times and information for individual places before visiting.