Things to see and do in Aberdeen, Grampian and Moray in August

Whether you’re looking for a short city break or a relaxing retreat in the beautiful Scottish countryside, head to the Aberdeen, Grampian and Moray area this August.  Encompassing the regions of Aberdeenshire, Banffshire and Moray, the region includes the UK’s largest national park, picturesque fishing villages, beautiful Royal Deeside and the ‘city of flowers’, Aberdeen.   From city shopping to castle, whisky and coastal trails, you can fill your days with a wide variety of activities and events, and surround yourself with breath-taking scenery.

Events

Aberdeen International Youth Festival, Aberdeen, 1st – 11th August
One of the biggest festivals of youth arts, featuring theatre, dance, opera, orchestras, jazz and world music.

Aberlour Strathspey Highland Games, Alice Litter Park, Aberlour, 4th August
Enjoy some traditional Highland Games, with heavy and light events, haggis hurling and tug o’ war.

Aboyne Highland Games, The Village Green, Aboyne, 4th August
Traditional Highland Games, with heavy events, massed pipe bands and Highland dancing.

Turriff Show, The Haughs, Turriff, 5- 6th August
Agricultural show with a food and craft fair, trade stands and ringside entertainment.

Ballater Highland Games, Monaltrie Park, Ballater, 9th August
Traditional Highland Games featuring dancing, track and field events and a hill race.

Keith Show, Seafield Park, Keith, 12-13th August
Agricultural show including a sheep dog demonstration, pipe band, children’s entertainment and craft fair.

Lonach Highland Games and Gathering, Bellabeg Park, Strathdon, 25th August
The march of the Lonach Highlanders is followed by traditional Highland Games in the afternoon.

Activities

Explore Aberdeenshire and Moray from the city to the coast – here are a few ideas of things to see and do on your next holiday in the North East:

• Aberdeenshire is home to Scotland’s only castle trail – a selection of 17 castles to explore, including Dunnottar Castle, Craigievar Castle and Fyvie Castle.
• If you’re a keen golfer, there are top class golf courses in the Aberdeen area, as well as many links courses along the Moray Coast.  Why not book some tee-time at Donald Trump’s new golf course at Balmedie in Aberdeenshire?
• Enjoy stunning views along the coastal trail and walk sections of one of Scotland’s Great Trails, the Moray Coast Trail.
• The rivers Spey, Findhorn, Deveron, Dee and Don snake across the area offering fantastic trout and salmon fishing.
• For a real taste of Scotland, visit some of the distilleries dotted around the Aberdeenshire-Moray area, and follow Speyside’s Malt Whisky Trail.

For more information on sights, activities and events in the Moray Speyside area, visit Greater Speyside.

For all the flexibility and freedom you need to really explore Aberdeenshire and Moray Speyside, stay in a local holiday home – browse a selection of self-catering Aberdeen, holiday cottages in Moray and Grampian self-catering holidays on EmbraceScotland.

Are you planning a trip to Aberdeen, Grampian or Moray this August? Or do you have recommendations on things to see and do?