Things to Do in Aberdeenshire Itinerary

Inverurie is also home to some incredible ancient historic sites. Take a wander through some of Scotland's best preserved stone circles including East Aquhorthies - where the stones are believed to have been chosen for their colour. The majority are a rough, pinkish porphyry (deep purple) colour, but there are a few that boast a red jasper, grey granite or red granite colour.

Elsewhere, the Maiden Stone is one of the most beautiful, grand and distinguished pieces of Pictish sculpture in north-east Scotland. This 3m-tall cross-slab of pinkish granite dates back before 700 AD, and features both Pictish symbols and what is believed to be a biblical scene.

If you're looking for somewhere to let the kids run wild and let off some steam, this 30,000 sq. ft trampoline park may do the trick. Skyline is a state-of-the-art indoor trampoline park featuring a variety of activities, including a jump tower and giant airbag, traverse wall, dodgeball, hang tough, stepping stones, battle beams, flip lanes and much more. You can even put your skills to the test on the dodgeball court!

Treat yourself to a luxury spot to stay, or even just a lovely evening meal out, by heading to Thainstone House. This elegant 18th century Palladian mansion is the ideal choice if you want to indulge with your accommodation. Thainstone House also features a leisure club which offers a heated indoor swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room and gym. There is a spa with a wide range of luxury ishga spa and beauty treatments too. A perfect option if you want to relax and slow down your travels in Scotland.

Why not take an afternoon to relax and delve into Scotland's world of whisky? Our national drink is a popular tipple around the world, and with so many distilleries in Aberdeenshire alone, why not? Head to Glen Garioch (pronounced Glen Geerie), Scotland's most easterly whisky distillery, and embark on whisky tastings and experiences. Explore the history and character of Glen Garioch and go behind the scenes to learn all about their whiskies, the distillery and more.

Tours will hopefully be back up and running in 2022 but, in the meantime, the giftshop is open and offers a variety of whiskies to buy and take home as a memento.

If you're looking for a relaxing afternoon wandering through picturesque gardens, look no further. Marvel at the serenity as you explore the 17th-century Pitmedden Garden, boasting a unique charm and plenty to admire. Featuring almost 6 miles of clipped box hedging, colourful parterres, over 200 fruit trees, and the lovely sweet smell of honeysuckle and jasmine, these gardens are a delight to add into your Aberdeenshire itinerary.

If you're feeling peckish, head to Eat on the Green, just a 5 minute drive from the gardens, and located within a former post office. Offering up delicious Scottish cuisine using only the finest local produce, the menu will be sure to tickle your tastebuds. Nearby, visit BrewDog's Lone Wolf Distillery in Ellon who produce delicious concoctions of gin, vodka and rum, and also offer brewery tours and fresh beer to try in their Taproom.

Rest your head for the night (or 4!) at Lodges at Barra Castle. These rustic cottages provide the perfect setting to sit back, relax and unwind after a day exploring. Featuring contemporary design alongside a Scandinavian 'hygge' vibe, you'll feel right at home here. Or why not indulge a little more with a stay at Meldrum House Hotel? Tucked away in the Aberdeenshire countryside, treat yourself to a spot of luxury in this fine 13th century manor house. Golfers are in luck too, with an outstanding golf course ranked in Scotland's top 100, with some of the finest practice facilities right on your doorstep.

Kick start the day with a trip back in time, discovering some incredible historic and ancient sites. The second highest in Scotland, Tap o' Noth Hill Fort is a very well preserved Iron Age fort and boasts impressive remains, alongside outstanding panoramic views over the Aberdeenshire countryside.

Nearby, Rhynie Pictish Stones feature a display of one Class I and two Class II carved stones. The first is made of pink granite, with carvings of a beast, comb and part of an arch symbol. The two Class II stones were found under the old church. One is whinstone, bearing a beast's head, double-disc, Z-rod, a mirror, and a comb. The other is red granite, with carvings of a double-disc, crescent, V-rod and mirror symbols.

Elsewhere, head to Huntly Castle, a magnificent ruin dating back to the 12th century and is famed for its architectural details and heraldic enrichments. Located just north of the town, the castle boasts a majestic location, and the palace interiors are a real sight to see with heraldic fireplaces and more.

Outside the town, pay a visit to one of Scotland's oldest working distilleries, GlenDronach, and learn all about the traditions and history of Scotland's single malt whisky. Using handcrafted techniques that have been traditional for some 200 years, the distillery matures their whiskies in superior sherry casks giving complex tastes and undertones to their malts. Enjoy a range of distillery tours and tasting experiences and make sure you head to the giftshop to explore a wide range of the GlenDronach Highland single malts and official merchandise too. Why not bottle your own distillery-exclusive malt as a special souvenir?

Make sure you stop by Dean's Shortbread which started up in Huntly and, since 1975, has been making their famous 'melt in the mouth' shortbread to a recipe that everyone loves. Visit the giftshop or stop in at the bistro and coffee stop.

Nearby, plan for a few hours at Inverboyndie Beach, just west of Banff. A popular place for walkers, swimmers, surfers and windsurfers, it's great for a family-friendly day out. It's also a calm and quiet area, so it's a good place to spot local wildlife too.

After your visit, head just a 10 minute drive into Portsoy and pick up a tasty ice cream from Portsoy Ice Cream. This award-winning, family-run business offers up a refreshing range of top-quality homemade artisan ice creams and sorbets.

If you're looking for somewhere to stay, Banff Links Caravan Park is nearby the beach. Or enjoy a self-catering break at the Sail Loft Bunkhouse in Portsoy. Accredited a 4-star hostel status, you'll have everything you need at this budget-friendly option, including luxurious beds and bunks, a communal kitchen, dining area and lounge, laundrette, drying room, secure cycle storage and more.