Banffshire is a historic county in northeastern Scotland, now part of the Moray and Aberdeenshire council areas. It’s natural attractions are centered on its dramatic coastline and the River Deveron valley. The coast, with its rugged cliffs, sandy bays, and picturesque fishing villages like Gardenstown and Crovie, is a key habitat for wildlife. Visitors can spot dolphins in the Moray Firth, and seabird colonies, including puffins, at places like Bullers of Buchan.
The area also offers scenic walks along rivers and through woodlands, providing a tranquil escape into the Banffshire countryside. The combination of coastal views and inland trails makes it a diverse destination for nature lovers.
Below is a curated list of popular visitor attractions in the historic Banffshire region. See here for some images of this historic County
Natural Attractions and Scenic Spots:
Bullers of Buchan, a collapsed sea cave and cliff formation, is a fantastic spot to see nesting seabirds.
Gardenstown and Crovie are two historic fishing villages tucked into the coastal cliffs.
Banff Links Beach offers serene walks along the sandy shore, with chances to spot dolphins in the bay.
Bridge of Alvah is a beautiful, old seven-arched bridge over the River Deveron.
The River Deveron provides scenic walking paths and opportunities for fishing.
Troup Head is home to Scotland’s largest gannet colony, a spectacular sight for birdwatchers.
Sandend Beach is a beautiful, clean beach known for its coastal walks.
Boyndie Visitor Centre features woodland paths and gardens to explore.
The Moray Firth is a key area for spotting marine life, including bottlenose dolphins.
The Banff and Macduff Heritage Trail offers a scenic way to explore the area’s coastal views.
Historic Sites and Ruins:
Duff House is a magnificent 18th-century baroque mansion and a gallery for the National Galleries of Scotland.
Banff Castle ruins are fragments of a former royal residence with a history of guarding the harbour.
Inchdrewer Castle is a captivating medieval ruin located in the peaceful countryside near Banff.
Findlater Castle is a picturesque ruin on a tiny peninsula with a dramatic 50-foot drop to the sea below.
Auchindoun Castle is a formidable ruined castle with a storied past, set on a hill near the River Fiddich.
The ancient market cross in Banff is a notable pre-Reformation historical landmark.
Deskford Church is an historic site with a rich past, worth exploring for its architecture and story.
Boyne Castle ruins are the remains of a significant castle in the area, offering a glimpse into the past.
The ruined kirk of Gamrie dates back to the 12th century, a site of deep historical significance.
Cullen House, though not a ruin, is an historic estate with beautiful architecture.
Museums and Cultural Sites:
The Museum of Banff, founded in 1828, is Scotland’s oldest museum north of Perth.
Duff House, as a country house gallery, displays a prestigious collection of fine art and furniture.
The Salmon Bothy in Portsoy is a museum detailing the area’s maritime history and fishing industry.
The Banff and Macduff Heritage Trail highlights the towns’ rich history and culture.
Macduff Marine Aquarium is a cultural and educational site dedicated to marine life of the area.
The townscapes of Banff and Macduff feature well-preserved Georgian architecture.
The historic harbour at Portsoy is a cultural hub, hosting traditional boat festivals.
Pennan became famous as a filming location for “Local Hero,” attracting film buffs.
The Boyndie Visitor Centre explores the local community’s history and heritage.
Traditional coastal villages like Gardenstown offer a window into traditional Scottish fishing life.
Any Other Notable Experiences:
Go dolphin and whale watching in the Moray Firth for an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Enjoy locally crafted ice cream from Portsoy Ice Cream, a family-run business.
Explore local walking routes curated by students from Banff Academy.
Visit the local distilleries to experience the famous Speyside whisky trail.
Browse the vast and eclectic collections at the Spotty Bag Shop in Banff, known as “Aladdin’s Cave.”
Dine at local restaurants and hotels like The Fife Lodge, known for local cuisine.
Take part in water activities like surfing or paddleboarding in Cullen Bay.
Stay in an historic building like Durn House for a luxurious, royal-like experience.
Attend the Portsoy Traditional Boat Festival for a unique cultural event.
Take a guided tour to fully explore the region’s coastal villages and rich history.
Note: While “Banffshire” is no longer an official administrative area, these sites lie within the traditional county boundaries and are popular with visitors exploring Moray and northeast Aberdeenshire.
Enjoy discovering the hidden gems, coastal beauty, and whisky heritage of historic Banffshire!