Tag: travel

Aberdeenshire Walks, New Walk, Places to Walk

Explore Kintore

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Distance: 5 miles Time: 2-3 hrs Terrain: Mix of pavement, road, grass and rough trail Access: Easy with some elevation 45Getting there: I found plenty of on street parking around the Kintore Public hall area AB51 OQP. Kintore has very good public transport links. The train station is only a short walk and there is a bus stop in the square.

Explore Kintore is a fantastic new interactive history tour of the town. At each stop you will find a QR code to scan, giving you a short two-minute story about the place where you are standing.

I began the walk at Kintore Public Hall on School Road. Built in 1894, the hall is still run by the community and is the starting point of the tour. From here, take a left towards the church.

At the church you will find three QR codes. At the gates stands the war memorial, one side has a list of those who gave their lives in the Great War. Go through the gates to find records those who fell in the Second World War. Next to the gates is the Kintore Pictish Stone, discovered in the churchyard but possibly from Castle Hill. Turning around you will see Kintore Kirk, the parish church built in 1819.

Leaving the kirkyard, turn left along Kingsfield Road until you reach the edge of town. On the right is a large white house, and just beyond it another QR code. This tells the story of the Aberdeenshire Canal, closed long ago to ma ay for the railway.I took a short detour furth along the road here to capture the view of the train tracks with Bennachie in the background.

Heading back along Kingsfield Road, continue into town until you reach the road called Howieslap on your left. Turn down here and walk straight on, when you come to wooden sheds you will see a grassy track. Follow the track right to reach a footbridge over Tuach Burn.

Cross the bridge and head uphill to the mast on Tuach Hill, where you can also bag a trig point. Looking back over Kintore, take the track on your left. This leads past an old quarry and the remains of Carn Ulach, a stone circle. Keep following the trail until it rejoins the main track.

Soon you will come to a fork. Take the left path down into the park and cross another bridge, gated but accessible. After the bridge turn right to find a bench with a QR code about Tuach Hill.

From here continue straight on, then turn left at the next junction. At the end of the road, turn right and cross over. A path with bollards to the left leads you to the play park, built on the site of the Roman camp known as Deer’s Den. Another QR code here tells its story.

From Deer’s Den, continue along Hallforest Drive. Cross the road at the roundabout and carry on along Castle Road, under the bypass, until you reach a large house on the right. Just beyond it, turn right for Hallforest Castle.

Dating back to the 14th century, Hallforest Castle is one of the oldest in Scotland. After visiting, follow the road past the ruins, turning right, then right again, and finally left to return under the bypass.

Keep straight until you reach the roundabout.Take a left onto Hallforest Avenue, then turn left again at the T junction onto Forest Road. This leads you back to the square for the final two QR codes.

The first is at Kintore Town House, a striking building commissioned by the Earl of Kintore in the 18th century. At the front stands the Kintore Millennium Stone. The final QR code is at the Kintore Arms Hotel.

This tour is a brilliant way to uncover the history of Kintore. It is well designed, easy to follow, and brings the past to life. I hope other communities take inspiration from this project and create similar tours to celebrate their own heritage.

kintore.org.uk

Aberdeenshire Walks, Places to Walk

Kirk of Skulls & Coastal Circular, Gardenstown

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Distance: 5 miles. Time: 2-3 hrs. Level: Easy, with some elevation. Terrain: A mixture of road, grass track, and well-maintained paths. Access: As you travel along the B9031 from Macduff, you’ll see a signpost for St John’s Church (AB45 3ES) on the left. Shortly after, you’ll find an old quarry on the right, which is the best place to park. The What3words location for the quarry is: ///townhouse.inhabited.note

Please note, there is no direct public transport to the start of this walk. However, you could take the No. 273 bus to Gardenstown and walk to the church from there, although the path may be overgrown in places.

This is a beautiful circular coastal walk with stunning views and a fascinating slice of local history. At its heart lies the atmospheric ruin of St John’s Church, better known as the Kirk of Skulls, perched dramatically above Gamrie Bay.

Start at the old quarry parking area and carefully cross the road to join the small road signposted for St John’s Church. Follow this road as it winds along past the church’s own small carpark. Although you can park here, the rough condition of the access road makes the quarry a better option.

Continue along the track beyond the carpark until you reach the ruined church and graveyard This is St John’s Church, a historic 11th-century site dedicated to St John the Evangelist. Most of the ruins visible today date from the early 1500s, with later additions in the 17th century.

The nickname “Kirk of Skulls” comes from a dramatic local legend linked to a battle in 1004 AD, the Battle of the Bloody Pits. According to tradition, a Viking fleet sought shelter along the Banff coast during a fierce storm. Short on supplies, around 600 Vikings landed near present-day Gardenstown, hoping to raid the area. Unbeknown to them, the Thane of Buchan had anticipated an attack and assembled a strong local force.

A brutal battle followed, ending in the Vikings’ defeat. The heads of three Viking leaders were said to have been displayed within the church until the 19th century, a gruesome detail that inspired the church’s eerie nickname.

After exploring the ruins, continue a short way beyond to a bench with a panoramic view of Gardenstown, locally known as Gamrie. Retrace your steps slightly to the map board, then head up the well-maintained footpath. There is a steady climb here as you make your way inland.

At a junction, take the left-hand path. After passing a farm, continue on the right-hand path, which leads past a row of wind turbines.

Once you reach the coastline, pause to soak in the spectacular views across the Moray Firth. Turn right here to follow the coast back toward Gardenstown, with views of Crovie appearing along this stretch.

Eventually, the path swings back inland. Before you reach the previous junction, take the left turn which leads you back down toward the church. From there, simply follow the road back to the quarry, where your walk ends.

This circular route offers a rich mix of history, coastal beauty, and peaceful rural scenery. It’s an ideal walk for a sunny morning or afternoon, just be sure to bring sturdy footwear and a camera for those views.

Moray Walks, Places to Walk

Explore Black Water Lodge and Dead Wife’s Hillock Hike

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Distance: 7 1/2 miles Time 3 – 4 hrs Level: Moderate with elevation. Terrain: Grass track and Landrover tracks. Car parking is available at The Steplar car park (AB54 4HY). Google Maps will take you to the correct location. There is no public transport to the car park. The area is part of the Dorenell Wind Farm. Only a few miles along the road you will find the Dorenell Visitors Centre at AB54 4EL. Here you will find a public toilet and lots of information about the trails in the area. 


This is a fantastic walk in the beautiful and remote Cabrach, located between Dufftown and Rhynie. Cabrach is known for its rugged landscape and remoteness. It has to be one of my favourite places to escape for an adventure. With a mix of wildlife, history and amazing views it really is an epic place to visit. 


At the start of the walk, there is an information board with the wildlife you may spot along the way as well as a map. From the car park, go through the gate and head up the grass track toward the solitary tree visible on the hill. Once you reach the tree, go through the gate and continue onto the Land Rover track. Don’t forget to look back!

The climb up Dead Wife’s Hillock is steep but worth it as you will get 360 degree views on a clear day. The hill’s eerie name is said to come from a story of a woman who perished there in the late 17th century during a famine. She died of starvation and was found with a child still alive, attached to her breast.

As I walked up the hill, I spotted a herd of deer on the left side. I didn’t see any more up close. It was a quiet day in the sky for birds, but golden eagles have been spotted in this area.

Once you reach the highest point of the hill, the descent will be a welcome relief. Soon, the Black Water River will come into view. Not far from the river, you will reach a way marker post—take the track to the right. This track follows the river. After a short distance, you will see Blackwater Lodge on the opposite side of the river.


As you approach the lodge, you will come to a fork in the track. Take the right track here—the left track leads to a ford, which cannot be crossed when the river is in spate. After a short distance you will reach a footbridge, cross it to reach Blackwater Lodge.

The lodge was a former seasonal hunting lodge, left unoccupied since the 1960s. Dating back to the late 18th century, it was used by the Duke of Richmond and Gordon. Please be respectful—only look through the windows and do not enter the property.

To the left of the lodge there is a small waterfall, a hidden gem that is worth taking a look. There are plenty areas to sit down and have a picnic and enjoy the peace. 


Once you have finished exploring, retrace your steps back over the bridge and along the track that runs parallel with the river.  At the way marker post, take a left to return over Dead Wife’s Hillock and back to The Steplar car park.

Aberdeenshire Walks, Places to Walk

The Riverside and The Bass, Inverurie. 

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Distance : Approx 4 miles. Time : 2hrs. Terrain : Pavements, road and riverside paths that may be muddy so wear sensible footwear. Access : Car parking is available at Burn Lane car park AB51 3SH that is just round the corner from the start of the walk (Car Parking is a couple of pounds). There are regular buses from Aberdeen to Inverness that stop outside the town hall at the start of the walk. The train station is only a short distance away.

Inverurie is one of the largest towns in Aberdeenshire and is packed with plenty of independent shops. Only a short walk from the town centre, you will find yourself in the countryside, with numerous opportunities to discover interesting historical sites along the way.

Start the walk from the Town Hall, heading across the road to the triangular-shaped Garden of Remembrance and War Memorial. Continue along the High Street until you reach the fork in the road. Take a right here onto St James’s Place and keep going until you reach the roundabout. Cross over the road at the island, and you will find the entrance to the riverside paths on your left. Walk down to the riverside and take a left under the Don Bridge.

Before 1790, Inverurie could only be reached by a ford across the River Don. The bridge that stands now was built in 1924. When I was there, I was greeted by many ducks. I’m not sure if they were hoping I had something for them to eat.

Keep following the path. Some areas are narrow and a little overgrown, so be careful along the way. Once you reach the railway bridge, head under it. You will now be in an area called the Stanners. This is the earliest site of habitation in Inverurie, where Bronze Age artefacts have been found. The townspeople gradually moved to Inverurie’s present location to avoid floods. Follow the narrow path that runs along the riverside. The path eventually turns to the left, continue until you reach the wooded area.

When you come to the bridge, take a left until you find the opening in the fence on your right. Be careful here as this takes you onto the road. When it is safe to do so, cross the road and go through the gates into the cemetery. You will find two large mounds known as The Bass. These were formed from melting ice during the Ice Age. A motte-and-bailey castle was built on top of the Bass in the 12th century by the Earl of Huntingdon. The mound was reshaped and cut in two in the 1800s; the smaller mound is known as Little Bass. Between the mounds, you will find four Pictish symbol stones dating from 400-900 AD. They are said to have been found built into the walls of the old parish church.

Beside the Bass, there is an opening in the wall where you can get back onto the path. Keep following the side of the cemetery wall until you return to the riverside path. Take a right here, and you will soon come back to the waterside. A path winds its way along the River Urie, I spotted swans on the water along here and a sparrowhawk in the trees. The river will take a left turn, and you will come into a wooded area. Here, you will find a path that turns left and heads back into the town. You will get an excellent view of Inverurie with Bennachie behind it.

Follow this path until you reach the railway crossing and when it is safe to do so, go through the gate and cross the line. Go straight ahead, passing the car park, houses, and buildings, until you return to the High Street. Take a right to return to the Town Hall and the end of the walk.

Aberdeenshire Walks, Places to Walk

Banff and Whitehills Circular

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Distance: 5 ½ – 6 miles Time: 2 – 3 hrs Level: Easy with some elevation Terrain: Mix of pavement, track, road, and beach Access: Car parking is available at the Quayside car park (AB45 1HQ). Regular buses run between Elgin and Aberdeen, with the nearest bus stop located at Chalmers Hospital, just a short distance from the start of the walk.

This is a wonderful coastal walk from the Aberdeenshire town of Banff to the neighbouring village of Whitehills. Before setting off, check the tidal times so you can enjoy walking along the beach.

From the Quayside car park, head towards the beach, taking the coastal path along Scotstown. Watch for cormorants drying their feathers on the rocks, and you may even be lucky enough to spot dolphins passing by.

Soon, you’ll come to steps leading down to the beach if you’ve timed the tide right. Banff Links is a fantastic beach to walk along, and on a sunny day, it’s lovely to take a wee paddle as you stroll. When you reach the end of the caravan park, take the ramp on your left to return to the path.

Follow the path and go over the footbridge until you reach a fork. Take a right here, and shortly you’ll arrive at Blackpots Playpark and Harbour.

The small, disused harbour was built in the late 18th century. The playpark was a favourite spot for my kids when they were younger, and I have fond memories of enjoying fish and chips with my mum while the kids played. fter the playpark, you’ll come upon the Fisherman’s & Seafarers’ Memorial and Whitehills Marina.

Continue along the road, passing Downies Fish, and keep an eye out for the “Light the North” lighthouse.

Stay on Seafield Street until you reach the post box and telephone box then take a left along Loch Street. Continue on Loch Street until you leave Whitehills. Soon, you’ll come to the coastal path on the left, take this path back towards Banff.

Along the coastal path, you’ll find the Red Well. The name comes from a spring that emerges from the ground, leaving red deposits, possibly due to iron content. The nearby beehive-shaped structure is thought to have been built by the Romans.

After the Red Well, continue on the path until you reach a fork just before the footbridge. Take the fork to the right and follow the track to a junction. Take a left here, follow the road over the bridge, and continue until the road splits.

Take the road on your right, which will lead to the Banff Links car park. Turn right and walk through the car park. At the other end, you’ll find a path with a gate. Go past the gate and continue along the path. After the third blue pavilion, you’ll come to another fork; take the track to the left, passing a small stone building (possibly an old icehouse).

Stay on this path as it winds through Scotstown. You’ll pass behind a row of houses; at the end of these, you’ll see some sheds. Take a left here to return to the Quayside car park.

Next to the car park, you’ll find the recently upgraded Banff Harbour, which is worth a visit before finishing your walk. You’ll enjoy lovely views of Macduff from the harbour.

Moray Walks, New Walk, Places to Walk

Hiking up Ben Rinnes

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Distance: 4 3/4 miles Time:2 1/2hrs – 4hrs Level: Moderate with lots of elevation. Access: Arrive by car. Parking available at the foot of the hill at AB55 4DA. No public transport.

Ben Rinnes is 841 metres high and is classed as a Corbett. It is a mountain so please be mindful of this and be prepared before setting off. Make sure you have suitable clothing, footwear, food and water. The weather can be very different at the bottom as it is at the top.

From the carpark head through the gate. Here you will follow the path as it meanders up the first small hill known as Round Hill. At the top of Round Hill, the path flattens out briefly. Then you start to ascend Roy’s Hill. You will continue on the well made path throughout.

As you reach the summit of Roy’s Hill, the path flattens out again. You will get a welcome breather before your final ascent to the summit of Ben Rinnes.

The last section is the most challenging with the mix of path and steps on the way up. This is a great opportunity to stop and take some photos. It will give you a chance to catch your breath.

When you reach the top, head round the back of the tor (large rock formation). Then climb the last wee bit to get to the summit trig point. If you are lucky enough to have a calm, clear day, you will enjoy stunning views across Moray. You can also see the Cairngorms on such days.

To ascend, you will retrace your steps down Ben Rinnes. Then, head down Roy’s Hill and Round Hill before returning to the carpark. This marks the end of the hike.

Highlands Walks, Places to Walk

Exploring Nairn: A Scenic Coastal Walk

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Distance: 2 ¾ – 3 ½ miles. Time: 1 – 2 hrs. Level: Easy with some elevation. Terrain: Paths, pavement, and sandy beach Access: Car parking is available at Falconers Lane IV12 4DS just off the High Street and the start of the walk. Regular buses run between Aberdeen and Inverness stopping at Nairn Bus station which can be found opposite Falconers Lane car park. Trains also run between Aberdeen and Inverness the station can be found at IV12 4QS and is only a short walk to the High Street.

Nairn is a beautiful town on the Moray Firth with so much to offer. Not only beautiful beaches, but there is also a lovely river side walk along the River Nairn and the town centre is packed with independent shops and some fantastic places to eat.

Start the walk from the coo on the wall on the High Street at the opening to Falconers Lane from here you will head down the street towards the sea. When you reach the Nairn bookshop take a left onto Gordon Street.

At the end of Gordon Street turn left and walk along King Street until you reach the pedestrian crossing. Cross over the road here and continue along King Street passing by the Nairn Community and Arts Centre. Take the next right along Viewfield Drive.

Walking along Viewfield Drive you will soon find Viewfield, a beautiful Georgian mansion house which now houses the Nairn Museum. In front of the museum there is a large, impressive statue of Dr John Grigor. Dr Grigor was a surgeon from Elgin who came to live in Nairn in the 1830’s.

He built several properties in the town including a large hotel. He also promoted Nairn as an attractive tourist destination in the Victorian era. Take a right past the museum and follow the path that takes you on to Viewfield Road.

Walking along you can admire some of the beautiful houses along the way. At the end of the road take a right on to Seafield Street. At the next junction take a left and walk down towards the leisure centre.

At the leisure centre you can take the path to the left and head down to the beach to explore the rock pools or carry on the circular walk by turning right along the footpath. Passing by the splash park there are toilets a little further along.

You will see the bandstand on your left which is worth the walk for a photo opportunity.

Keep going along the path or you may choose to go on to the beach until you reach the Sundancer Restaurant. You will now have reached the harbour. To your left you will find the ‘Nairn Fishwife” The bronze sculpture was erected in 2007 and is based on an actual person Annie Ralph, one of the last of the Nairn fishwives.

Walking round past the harbour you will find a footbridge that will take you over the River Nairn. From here you could walk up to the lighthouse and admire the views of the Black Isle before taking the riverside path back into the centre of Nairn.

The riverside path takes you on a quiet stroll in a wooded area with the river running alongside to your right until you reach Jubilee Bridge.

Heading over the bridge follow the path through. Riverside Park until you reach Mill Road. Take a left here and head under the railway bridge. Keep going along Mill Road which shortly becomes Church Street. At the end of Church Street you will arrive at the High Street and where you began your walk.