North East 250

Looking to uncover some hidden gems along the North East 250? Check out fantastic places to visit while on the road. It is sure to be a holiday to remember! 

Aberdeen & Footdee 

Known as the Granite City, Aberdeen blends striking architecture and green open spaces with a rich maritime heritage. Wander through the cobbled streets of Old Aberdeen, breathe in the fresh sea air along the beach or uncover stories of the city's seafaring past at Aberdeen Maritime Museum. With its mix of culture, history and coastal scenery, there's plenty to discover during your time here. 

Just moments from the city centre lies Footdee, or 'Fittie' as locals affectionately call it. Tucked away at the edge of the harbour, this charming former fishing village feels a world apart. Stroll past colourful cottages and flower-filled lanes, watch boats bobbing on the water and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. It's a wonderful place to slow down and experience a different side of the city. 

Go sightseeing in Aberdeen  

Peterhead Prison Museum, Peterhead 

Nicknamed Scotland's Alcatraz, Peterhead Prison Museum offers a captivating glimpse behind prison walls. Walk through former cell blocks, hear stories of notorious inmates and find out what daily life was really like inside one of the country's most famous prisons. 

Whether you join a guided tour or explore independently with an audio guide, every corridor and cell reveals another fascinating chapter in Scotland's criminal history. 

Book a tour at Peterhead Prison Museum 

The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses, Fraserburgh 

Overlooking the bustling harbour of Fraserburgh, The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses offers a fascinating glimpse into life on Scotland's rugged coastline. Climb the spiral staircase, admire sweeping sea views and feel what it was like to keep watch over some of the nation's most remote shores. 

Interactive exhibits and family-friendly displays make it a great stop for visitors of all ages, with plenty to spark the imagination of future lighthouse keepers. 

Enjoy The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses 

Troup Head RSPB Nature Reserve, Aberdeenshire 

Feel the sea breeze on your face as you stand atop the dramatic cliffs of Troup Head, home to Scotland's largest mainland gannet colony. Watch thousands of seabirds swoop and dive above the crashing waves while puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes nest along the rocky coastline. 

Keep your eyes on the water, too. If you're lucky, you may spot dolphins, porpoises or even a minke whale breaking the surface offshore. It's a truly memorable place to experience Scotland's wildlife at its wildest. 

Discover Troup Head RSPB Nature Reserve 

Ballindalloch Castle, Moray Speyside 

Often described as one of Scotland's most romantic castles, Ballindalloch Castle feels as though it's been lifted straight from a storybook. Stroll through peaceful gardens filled with colour and fragrance, listen to birdsong along the River Avon and keep an eye out for roe deer grazing nearby. 

Inside, discover a collection of family heirlooms, elegant rooms and one of Scotland's finest country house libraries. Highlights include the grand dining room, complete with its magnificent fireplace, and a charming nursery filled with antique toys. 

Explore Ballindalloch Castle 

Speyside Cooperage, Moray Speyside 

Step behind the scenes of Scotland's whisky industry at Speyside Cooperage. Your visit begins with an immersive 4D cinema experience that brings the sights, sounds and aromas of the cooperage to life before you watch skilled coopers at work shaping and repairing traditional oak casks. 

Learn how these handcrafted barrels help create the distinctive character of malt whisky, then round off your visit with a tasting of Speyside's flavours. Designated drivers can take samples away to enjoy later. 

Delve into the history of Speyside Cooperage 

Braemar 

Nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park and the beautiful landscapes of Royal Deeside, Braemar is surrounded by heather-clad hills, towering peaks and some of Scotland's most spectacular scenery. Whether you're visiting in summer or winter, it's an ideal stop on the NE250. Pull on your walking boots and adventure on miles of trails, breathe in the crisp mountain air and soak up the beauty of Aberdeenshire from every angle. 

For a journey through local history, visit Braemar Castle. Standing proudly since 1628, this striking castle has served as a fortress, hunting lodge and family home. Join a guided tour to uncover stories from its colourful past as you wander through its historic rooms and grounds. 

If you're visiting in September, don't miss the world-famous Braemar Gathering. Feel the excitement as athletes toss cabers, pipe bands fill the air with music and spectators gather to celebrate one of Scotland's most iconic Highland traditions. 

Explore Braemar