About this experience
Explore the stunning northeast coast of Aberdeenshire on a guided trip from Aberdeen. Visit charming villages, such as Gardenstown and Crovie, and become immersed in their ancient history.
Highlights
- Explore the coastline and hear stories of smugglers and intrigue
- Discover the coastal fishing villages of Aberdeenshire
- Marvel at the birds nesting on the cliffs at Bullers
- Breathe the fresh sea air in one of Scotland’s prettiest coastal villages
What's included
- Guide
- Transportation from Aberdeen
How to use
- Show Mobile Ticket
- At Redemption Counter
What to expect
We will wander through the beautiful fishing villages and discover their maritime past and present. From working harbours to abandoned castles and tall cliffs, this tour will immerse you in the heritage of the northeast and its connection to the sea.
Gardenstown & Crovie
The first part of our journey, we drive through the Aberdeenshire countryside, to the villages of Gardenstown and Crovie. From the lovely harbour and beach, you can look out over the Moray Firth and perhaps catch a glimpse of the dolphins in the bay. On the quayside, you can see men preparing their lobster pots, as well as the Salmon House which contains the Heritage Centre.
We encourage you to walk along the coastal path which take you to Crovie, dating from the 18th century. Crovie is the smallest and most remote of Buchan cliff-foot fishing villages, it comprises a single row of houses, most gable-end to the sea.
Pennan
The people of Pennan were dependent on the sea and most families had small boats. With a pebble stone beach and smart houses with colourful windows, there is a charm and peacefulness in the village that tempts you to linger and listen to the waves. Pennan became famous in the 1980s for being one of the main locations for the film Local Hero. Film enthusiasts have come from all over the world to make a phone call in the red telephone box which featured in the film.
Fraserburgh
The town name means, 'burgh of Fraser', after the Fraser Family who bought the lands of Philorth and built the family castle at Kinnaird Head. Fraserburgh is an active harbour town, and you have time to walk around the headland to see the lighthouse and foghorn while making your way past the busy harbour.
Bullers of Buchan
The name Bullers of Buchan refers both to a collapsed sea cave and the little hamlet nestled beside. The collapsed sea cave and the cliffs surrounding the Bullers provide nesting sites in spring for colonies of seabirds, including kittiwakes, puffins, along with herring gulls and great black-backed gulls.
Collieston
Collieston provides the first safe harbour in over fifteen miles of beaches and dunes stretching north from Aberdeen. The numerous sea caves and small coves with shingle beaches provided ideal terrain for smugglers. Learn about notorious smuggler Phillip Kennedy and his exploits while trying to outrun the exciseman.
Newburgh
Newburgh Seal Beach
Newburgh Seal Beach is a haven for nature lovers. Situated at the mouth of the River Ythan, it's home to a thriving colony of around 400 seals that can often be seen lounging on the sandbanks. The surrounding dunes and estuary also attract a variety of birdlife, including one of Europe's largest populations of eider ducks, making it a prime spot for wildlife watching.
Terms & conditions
The tour will take place rain or shine. Please wear weather-appropriate clothing.
This is a fair amount of walking, some adjustments can be made for those with limited mobility.
Tours are limited to a maximum of 7 guests
There are uneven and unpaved paths on this tour
Our visit to the Bullers cliffs is dependent on weather conditions and is not suitable for people who have a fear of heights