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Day Trips from Newburgh, Aberdeenshire

Newburgh is the perfect gateway to the best of northeast Scotland, offering a mix of stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re drawn to dramatic coastlines, historic castles, whisky trails, or outdoor pursuits, there’s something for everyone within easy reach.

Coastal & Outdoor Adventures

  • Newburgh Beach & Forvie Nature Reserve – Just steps from the village, this wildlife haven is home to thousands of seals, eider ducks, and stunning sand dunes.
  • Bullers of Buchan – A spectacular clifftop walk where you can spot puffins (April to early August), along with kittiwakes, guillemots, and razorbills nesting in the rugged sea caves.
  • Dunnottar Castle – Perched on a dramatic clifftop near Stonehaven, this medieval fortress offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland’s past.
  • Further north, at Troup Head, Scotland’s only mainland gannet colony can be found. This RSPB reserve near Pennan is home to thousands of gannets, fulmars, and skuas, with incredible views of gannets diving into the sea at high speed.

History & Culture

  • Slains Castle – The eerie ruins of this coastal cliffside castle are said to have inspired Bram Stoker’s *Dracula*.
  • Fyvie Castle – A beautifully preserved Scottish Baronial castle, featuring grand interiors and mystical ghost stories.
  • Aberdeenshire’s Stone Circles – Explore the region’s ancient Pictish sites and mysterious standing stones, such as the Easter Aquhorthies Stone Circle.

Hiking & Hillwalking

  • Bennachie – One of Aberdeenshire’s most iconic hills, with well-marked trails leading to Mither Tap, where you’ll find the remains of an ancient hill fort and spectacular views over the surrounding countryside.
  • Tap o’ Noth – A striking hill topped with one of the highest Iron Age hill forts in Scotland, offering panoramic views over Aberdeenshire. The short but steep climb is rewarded with incredible scenery and a deep sense of history.
  • Loch Muick (Deeside) – A breathtaking loch surrounded by mountains in the Cairngorms National Park. A popular hiking destination, it offers stunning scenery, peaceful trails, and a chance to spot red deer and golden eagles. The 8-mile circular walk around the loch is perfect for nature lovers.

Whisky & Local Delights

  • The Whisky Trail – Visit some of Scotland’s most famous distilleries, where you can tour, taste, and learn about the art of whisky-making.
    • Glenfiddich Distillery (Dufftown) – One of the world’s most renowned single malt whisky distilleries, Glenfiddich offers guided tours showcasing traditional whisky production and tastings of their signature expressions.
    • Royal Lochnagar Distillery (Deeside) – Nestled near Balmoral Castle, this historic distillery is known for its smooth Highland malt, once enjoyed by Queen Victoria. The visitor experience includes a fascinating look at its small-scale production methods.
    • Glen Garioch Distillery (Oldmeldrum) – One of Scotland’s oldest operating distilleries, Glen Garioch produces a rich and full-bodied Highland whisky. The distillery tour takes you through its handcrafted whisky-making process, offering tastings of its distinctive range.
  • Local Cuisine – Enjoy fresh seafood, cosy cafés, and traditional Scottish fare in Newburgh and the surrounding villages.

Aberdeen City

  • Just a 25-minute drive from Newburgh, Aberdeen offers a mix of shopping, dining, culture, and family-friendly activities.
  • Union Square & Bon Accord Centre – Home to high-street brands, designer stores, and independent boutiques, plus plenty of cafés and restaurants for a shopping break. 
  • The West End – Explore independent shops, stylish homeware stores, and artisan bakeries in this charming part of the city. 
  • Aberdeen Art Gallery – One of Scotland’s finest galleries, featuring masterpieces by Monet, Turner, and Scottish artists. 
  • The Tolbooth Museum – Step inside one of the best-preserved 17th-century gaols in Scotland, offering a glimpse into the city’s darker past.
  • Maritime Museum – Learn about Aberdeen’s shipbuilding history, oil industry, and seafaring heritage through interactive exhibits.

Things to Do with Kids in Aberdeen

  • Duthie Park & The Winter Gardens – A fantastic green space with play areas, plus one of Europe’s largest indoor gardens, filled with exotic plants and waterfalls.
  • Codona’s Amusement Park – A fun-filled seaside attraction with rides, adventure golf, bowling, and arcades.
  • Aberdeen Science Centre – Hands-on exhibits and STEM activities make this a great stop for curious young minds.

From hiking in the Cairngorms to exploring castles, whisky distilleries, and wildlife along the coast, Newburgh is the ideal base for discovering the beauty and heritage of northeast Scotland. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply soaking in the scenery, there’s no shortage of unforgettable day trips to enjoy.