Deeside Tourist Route: 30 Cool Things To See

The Deeside Tourist Route is a magical route from Perth to Aberdeen, which goes through the Cairngorms National Park. The 108 miles route offers plenty to do from the market town of Perth to the great city of Aberdeen.

This epic drive showcases the fruit-growing farmland of Blairgowrie, the jaw-dropping Cairngorms National Park and the lush landscapes of Royal Deeside. 

Along the enchanting route, there are vast mountains and lots of nature in the Cairngorms National Park which makes it an excellent place to visit.

There is plenty of activities to tick off. This guide lists the best things to do along the route.

Things to do in Perth Deeside Tourist Route

Perth 

The city of Perth sits on the banks of the River Tay. The River Tay is the longest river in Scotland, which stretches 119 miles.

A former capital of Scotland, Perth was made a city again as part of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012. For over 800 years, Perth has been an important commercial industrial and political centre in Scotland.

On the outskirts, Kinnoull Hill is great for walking and is a great viewpoint over the River Tay and surrounding countryside.

Also, there is Branklyn Garden lower down the hill which is famous for its uncommon and unique plants from all over the world. Moreover, there is a range of cafes, restaurants, entertainment facilities and shops. 

The Black Watch Castle and Museum 

The Black Watch Castle and Museum is located in the 12th-century Balhousie Castle. Extensive restorations took place in the 1860s.

The Black Watch, the oldest Highland regiment has an interesting museum in the castle. You can discover the story of the iconic Black Watch Regiment from 1725 onwards.

In the museum, you can learn about regiment life and see uniforms, medals and weapons belonging to the iconic Black Watch Regiment.

Also, you can find out how the regiment came into existence and the conflicts they were involved in including Afghanistan and Iraq. 

Perth Museum and Art Gallery 

The Perth Museum and Art Gallery is an impressive building which has displays of the history of Perth.

Photographs, portraits and displays demonstrate the natural and human history of Perth. Also, the museum features temporary exhibitions which are always changing.

Fergusson Art Gallery

At the Fergusson Art Gallery, you can see personal items which belong to John Duncan Fergusson, the celebrated Scottish colourist.

The Gallery is located in an old water tower which is a fine example of the unique architectural heritage. It is a small gallery which will take no more than twenty minutes of your time.

Perth Concert Hall

Next on the list is a venue which is perfect for live music, comedy and dance events.

Notable artists from all around the world have performed at Perth Concert Hall including London artists and Scottish locals. You can check out the website to find out who is playing next. 

Scone Palace

Scone Palace

Scone Palace is a historical centre which has lots of history. It was once the seat of Scottish Monarchs, many Scottish Kings were crowned here including Robert The Bruce.

Also, Scone Palace is home to the Stone of Destiny. The replica of Stone of Destiny is at Scone Palace, while the original is at Edinburgh Castle. 

You can explore the many rooms in the castle, browse precious treasures or head out to the gardens. Scone Palace is one of the grand castles near Perth.

There is a challenging maze where you can try your luck negotiating the Murray Star Maze. Also, you might see red squirrels wander too!

Blairgowrie Golf Club

The Blairgowrie Golf Club has three exciting courses to choose from. First of all, there is the James Braid-designed Rosemount course, then the challenging Landsdowne Course and the charming 9-hole Wee course.

Other golf courses which are near Blairgowrie are the Dalmunzie Golf Club, Alyth Golf Club and the Strathmore Gold Club in Alyth.

Blairgowrie Hedge

At Blairgowrie, you will come across a hedge which is so spectacular it has earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.

The beech hedge is the world’s longest and highest hedge. The hedge measures 530 metres in length and 36 metres in height at its highest. 

Snow Roads Cairngorms Things to do in Aviemore

Cairngorms National Park 

The Cairngorms National Park is home to 55 Munro’s with five of the six UK’s highest mountains located here. Also, the park has waterfalls and forests quite like nowhere else in the world.

There are endless walking and hiking opportunities, also, the Cairngorms is a paradise for outdoor opportunities which include skiing at Glen Shee. 

If you are lucky you might the opportunity to spot reindeer, majestic red deer, mountain hares, and wildcats which roam the Cairngorms. Also, golden eagles sour high above.

The roads in the Cairngorms National Park climb a magnificent 665 metres which is Britain’s highest main road. The former highest point of the Cairngorms – Devil’s Elbow, has been bypassed, however, you can still visit the twisting road.

Mar Lodge Estate

The Mar Lodge Estate covers almost seven per cent of the Cairngorms National Park. It is Britain’s largest nature reserve. Also, it is home to 15 Munros and the estate covers 29,000 hectares. 

Kindrochit Castle

Kindrochit Castle is a 14th-century castle ruin. On-site there are information boards which show the rich history of the castle.

It is believed that the castle was famously destroyed once a plague broke out in the castle. It is hard to imagine what Kindrochit Castle would have looked like in its full glory. 

Linn of Dee North East 250

Linn of Dee

The Linn of Dee is surrounded by the best landscapes in Scotland. Just above the bridge and rivers are the country’s second-largest Munro – Ben Macdui.

This area is one of my favourite walks in Scotland and it is perfect to visit any time of the year. There are excellent paths around Glen Lui with stunning views across the Cairngorms.

Glen Lui is one of my most lovely glens in Scotland. This route takes approximately one hour to complete.

Linn of Quoich 

Another picturesque point on the drive through the Cairngorms is the Linn of Quoich. This is a beautiful walk which features an important geological formation – the Earl of Mar’s Punch Bowl.

Also, the walk features a mix of woodlands and green space which is an excellent habitat for wildlife.

Braemar Castle, North east 250

Braemar Castle

Braemar Castle was built in the 17th century by the Earl of Mar as a hunting lodge, garrison and family housing.

The castle is an iconic landmark which features turrets, a star-shaped curtain wall and a bottleneck dungeon. For over 200 years the castle was home to the chiefs of Clan Farquharson and now the castle is tended by the community of Braemar. 

Royal Lochnagar Distillery

The distillery received Royal Warrant in 1848 after Queen Victoria and Prince Albert visited and made the first ever tour.

On the tour, you will learn about the whisky-making process, see the equipment and you can enjoy a free sample of whisky at the end.

Prince Albert's Pyramid North East 250

Prince Albert Pyramid  

Near the grounds of the Balmoral residence, you can view a magnificent structure which resembles a large pyramid. To commemorate important events in Queen Victoria’s life she had cairns built, the cairns represent things like births, marriages and deaths. 

The pyramid is a majestic structure and it is a hidden gem in the Cairngorms. To get to the cairns, you can park in the Balmoral Castle car park for a fee of £5.

There is a circular route which takes a couple of hours. Alternatively, you can walk to Prince Albert’s Cairn and back to the car in approximately 45 minutes.

Balmoral Castle Cairngorms Snow Roads

Balmoral castle

Next on the list is the Queen’s summer holiday home – Balmoral Castle. The castle was originally built for Queen Victoria and Albert, it is a brilliant example of Scottish Baronial architecture and is now owned by the Royal Family.

The grounds are extensive and are great to visit, you can view the beautiful stables and the royal collection of cars and carriages. 

Tours of the castle can be booked online. The castle is only at certain times of the year as the queen occupies the castle at certain times of the year.

Once you have finished your visit you can shop for souvenirs in the gift shop or relax in the tearoom.

Crathie Kirk North East 250

Crathie Kirk

Next to Balmoral Castle car park, you can visit the granite structure of Crathie Kirk.

This is a well-known church as it is where the Queen and the Royal Family visit for their church service. Also, the granite church looks over the River Dee and the ruins of a church which was built in the 14th century. 

The Highlander Bakehouse

The Highlanders Bakehouse is a cute small café which serves delicious cakes and coffee. The bakehouse is next to Crathie Kirk and it is the perfect stop after exploring Balmoral Estate.

There is a brilliant selection of teacakes with a variety of toppings and flavourings. Also, there are different flavours of hot chocolate which are so rich and creamy and perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

Abergeldie Castle

Abergeldie Castle

Moving on from Ballater you will drive past Abergeldie Castle. Ballater is one of the most historic towns in Aberdeenshire.

Abergeldie Castle is a four-storey castle which was built in the 17th century.

It is believed that the castle has been to home to the Royal Family, Spanish troops and Bonnie Dundee in the Jacobite Rising in 1715. This castle is the perfect photo opportunity from across the river.

Cambus O’May Cheese Co

Learn about the historic process of cheese making at the Cambus O’May Cheese Company. Also, you can listen to information about the original recipes and traditional methods that go into cheese making.

Moreover, you can take a look at the resting rooms where wheels of cheese rest until they are perfect. 

You can try a few different varieties including Cambus O’May, Lairig Ghru and Lochnager. The cheese pairs perfectly with oatcakes and a glass of wine. 

Burn o'Vat

Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve

The Muir of Dinnet has one of the most unusual spots in Scotland. Here, you can follow one of the many walking trails and maybe set up a picnic.

The Highland Nature Reserve includes woodland, heathland and a sparkling loch to explore. 

The easiest and shortest walking trail to follow includes the famous Burn O’Vat which is a giant cauldron carved out by rocks under a glacier during the Ice Age. This place is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, as there are a plethora of hiking trails to choose from. 

Dess Waterfall

Dess Waterfall

From the small village of Kincardine O’Neil, you can follow a 4.8-mile circular route which features Dess Waterfall.

Although the waterfall is not one of the biggest in the country, it is still very impressive for its size. To find the route to the falls, park your car across from the Old Smiddy.

The walk should take three hours at a steady pace. Dess Waterfall is one of the nicest waterfalls to go for a swim near Aberdeen.

Crathes Castle

Crathes Castle 

Crathes Castle is a 16th-century delight with one of the best gardens in Scotland.

The castle has a lovely maze of turrets and towers with superbly painted ceilings and oak panellings. The impressive wave cut yew hedges date back to 1702. 

Some plants in the unique historical garden date back over 300 years ago.

Also, in the gardens, you can view a range of wildlife including roe deer, woodpeckers, buzzards and red squirrels. The gardens are kept to a great standard by hardworking gardeners.

The castle is currently looked after by National Trust for Scotland. Tickets are available to view the inside of the castle.

Also, there is a small car parking fee. You can view the castle from the outside and the gardens for free.

Go Ape at Crathes Castle 

Go Ape is a popular tree-tope top assault course where you can enjoy Tarzan swings, zip wires and rope ladders. The assault course is based on the grounds of Crathes Castle and it is the perfect place to make lifelong memories. 

Royal Deeside Railway

It is great to see the old diesel and steam trains being preserved along with some vintage rolling rocks. Also, it is a fantastic way to view the amazing scenery along the River Dee. 

There is an opportunity to get tickets for their high tea special services where there is a lovely selection of cakes and sandwiches. Also, The station has a wee museum and a gift shop inside which is exceptionally well preserved.

Drum Castle, Banchory North East Castle Trail

Drum Castle 

Drum Castle is a 14th-century castle which dates back to medieval times. The castle was granted to William de Irwyn by King Robert the Bruce.

The original square tower which was built in the 13th century is still standing tall, further extensions have been added since then.

A Jacobean mansion house was added first then a Victorian extension followed. Until 1975, the Irvine family owned the property. You can discover plenty of antiques, treasures and mementoes of family life. 

Afterwards, you can visit the Garden of Historic Roses and take a stroll through the ancient oak woodland in the Old Wood of Drum. Drum Castle is one of the nicest castles near Aberdeen.

Aberdeen 

The stunning Deeside Tourist Route finished in the city of Aberdeen. Make sure to visit the enchanting historic quarter of Old Aberdeen and the fishing district of Footdee.

Also, Aberdeen has a beach and a fishing port with a museum. Moreover, you can find high street deals at the Union Street Shopping Centre and plenty of green space in many of the greenbelt parks including Hazelhead Park. 

His Majesty’s Theatre

The Majesty’s Theatre is one of the most impressive buildings in Aberdeen.

The theatre opened in 1906 and the majestic facade is completed by its opulent interior. You can enjoy a meal in the 1906 restaurant or get tickets to see a show. 

Gordon Highlanders Museum 

The Gordon Highlanders Museum celebrates the Gordon Highlander regiment which existed for over 200 years.

The regiment was amalgamated into a unit of the British Army in the 1990s. In 2019, a replica of a First World War trench opened. Entry is £10 per adult.

St Machars Cathedral

St Machar’s Cathedral

St Machar’s Cathedral is a 12th-century cathedral which continues to be a place of worship today. The building is spectacular as there is incredible ancient architecture.

Also, there is a spectacular and unique heraldic ceiling and fortified west front. Overall, the presentation of the stained glass windows is breathtaking.

Final note

Deeside Tourist Route is an enchanting driving route which showcases the best of Perthshire, the Cairngorms and Aberdeenshire.

The route starts in Perth where you can view many gardens and old buildings. Next, the route moves north towards Blairgowrie before entering the Cairngorms. 

There are a few routes that you can follow to explore Perthshire and the Cairngorms. The Heart 200 is in Perthshire and Cateran Trail is in the Cairngorms.

The Cairngorms is an excellent opportunity to bag a couple of Munros or do some winter sports at Glen Shee. It is a magnificent area and the snow peak-covered mountains will take your breath away.

Once, you have passed Glenshee you can follow through the National Park to Braemar and Ballater. 

The route slowly starts heading east where you will pass through a couple of villages including Aboyne and Banchory before entering the capital city of Aberdeen.

There are so many things to do in Aberdeen as the coastal city has a cool history to learn about and you can view the impressive granite architecture.