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Aberdeenshire
Located on the north-east coast of Scotland, Aberdeenshire is the area around Aberdeen city. It stretches from the Banffshire coast in the north all the way around to St Cyrus National Nature Reserve in the east, featuring beautiful coastlines, pretty seaside towns, rugged cliffs and sandy bays. It also has some incredible mountains and farmland as it runs towards the Cairngorms National Park.
Find experiences
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Things to do in Aberdeenshire
Aberdeenshire has some great activities and attractions including castles, walks, mountain biking and more.
Great outdoors
From scaling the heights of Ben Macdui to paddle-boarding off the coast or an e-bike ride in the valley, you’re spoiled for choice in Aberdeenshire.

History & Heritage
Find ancient sites and symbols, mysterious standing stones, towering granite walls and legendary castles in Aberdeenshire.
Adventure activities
From mountain bike trails and Munro Bagging, to paddleboarding and skiing, find your outdoor adventure in Aberdeenshire.
Inspiration for Aberdeenshire breaks
Glen Dye Cabins and Cottages
Places to stay
Enjoy a self-catering break out in the countryside, or book a B&B by the coast. Search for unusual accommodation such as a courtyard cottage or bothy, or relax in a 5-star hotel amongst the trees.
The Watchers at Corgarff
Tours, Routes & Trails
Hire an electric car for a slow road trip of Aberdeenshire, taking in the castles, distilleries and Royal attractions. Or book a tour to uncover the wildlife and incredible scenery.
Slains Castle
© VisitAberdeenshire
What is Aberdeenshire known for?
Aberdeenshire boasts no fewer than 300 castles, ruins and stately homes, more than 50 classic, unspoilt golf courses, and a large number of whisky distilleries.
You'll also hear the dialect of Doric while in this area - learn some words and phrases before you go.
Braemar Gathering
© Grant Paterson
Unique experiences
Aberdeenshire hosts one of the most famous Highland games in the world.
It's also home to part of the UK’s largest National Park and one of the best places to spot dolphins.
Aberdeen City & Aberdeenshire map
Explore Aberdeenshire
Get friendly and helpful advice for your trip at our iCentres.
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Travel to and around
Aberdeenshire is easily accessible by car, train, bus and plane so you'll be able to get here no matter where you are travelling from, and while you here it's easy to travel around.
Getting to
Bus and coach
There are many frequent and affordable bus services that travel from various main cities to Aberdeen daily.
Train
Aberdeen’s railway station, right in the heart of the city, has frequent fast and reliable services to and from major cities.
LNER trains run along the east coast from cities such as Edinburgh, York, Newcastle and London.
Scotrail provides an express rail service direct to Aberdeen from many major cities.
Aberdeen can also be reached overnight from London on the Caledonian Sleeper.
Driving
There are many car hire companies operatiing in Aberdeen.
Flying
Fly into Aberdeen International Airport from a number of destinations.
The region is well connected globally with daily flights to all major airports including London Heathrow, Paris and Amsterdam. The international airport also has many direct routes to most UK cities as well as many key European destinations.
Or fly to one of Scotland's airports and journey up to Aberdeen by bus, or train.
Getting around
Bus and coach
First Group operate regular buses across the city of Aberdeen while Stagecoach Bluebird's buses link the towns and villages in Aberdeenshire.
GrassHOPPER passes let you hop on and off within a certain zone. Find out more on GrassHOPPER ticket prices and how to use them.
Vehicle hire
There are several car hire companies operating in Aberdeen.
Tours
Want to relax and let someone else drive?
Book a tour and hear from a knowledgeable local tour guide as they highlight points of interest, stop off at the best hidden gems and visit the iconic landmarks you’ve heard all about.
Taxi
There are several taxi companies operating in Aberdeenshire.
What's on in Aberdeenshire

Pipe band marching at Ballater Highland Games
Events
From amazing musical shows and spectacular festivals to fascinating exhibitions and virtual readings, there is always lots of things to do in Aberdeenshire.
Where to eat in Aberdeenshire
Speyside Cooperage
© North East 250 / Damian Shields
Food & Drink
Enjoy local food and drink experiences in Aberdeenshire, including Aberdeen Angus Beef, fresh seafood, famous whisky and more.
A tip from your local expert

VisitScotland Information Centre
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Help and advice
You can also get advice from our accredited iKnow partners, with excellent local expertise, travel advice and insider tips about must-see attractions and great accommodation in the local area.
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