Categories > Guides and Tips
Alford Travel Guide: What to See, Do, and Explore
- Where is Alford?
- How to Get To Alford
- Top Things to Do and Attractions to Visit in Alford
- Grampian Transport Museum
- Haughton Country Park
- Alford Heritage Museum
- Alford Valley Railway
- Craigievar Castle
- River Don
- Alford Golf Club
- Alford Ski Centre
- Where to Stay in Alford
- Haughton Arms Hotel
- Self-Catering Cottages Around Alford
Welcome, dear readers, to Alford, Aberdeenshire – a charming little town nestled in the heart of the Scottish countryside, where history and nature blend seamlessly, seemingly untouched by the outside world.
On my last trip, I was particularly drawn to Haughton Country Park. Each morning, I would take a peaceful stroll (row 2880-self guided walks aberdeen) through the park before settling down by the tranquil River Don for a picnic to fuel my day’s adventures.
While Alford may be small, it has a lot of fun and love to give. From fascinating museums to scenic rolling hills, it’s packed with charm, history, and unforgettable experiences that you definitely don’t want to miss!
Where is Alford?
Located in Aberdeenshire, in northeastern Scotland, Alford is about 25 miles west of Aberdeen, nestled in the beautiful Donside region.
Surrounded by rolling hills and lush countryside, the town offers easy access to hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
How to Get To Alford
By Car: To reach Alford by car, simply follow the A944 road west from Aberdeen. The drive covers approximately 25 miles and takes about 45 minutes.
By Bus: Take the 218 Stagecoach service from Aberdeen’s Union Square Bus Station directly to Alford. The entire journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Top Things to Do and Attractions to Visit in Alford
Grampian Transport Museum
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Address: Montgarrie Rd
Contact Information: 01975 562292
Operating Hours: Daily: 10am-4pm
Best For: Transport history enthusiasts
Prices:
- Adults (16+) – £13
- Concessions (60+) – £11
- Child (3-15) *Children must be accompanied by an adult – £5
- Student – £11
- Family ( 2 Adults + 1 Child) – £27
- Family ( 2 Adults + 2 Children) – £29
- Carer – Free
- Dogs – Free
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible; Wheelchair available at reception
Dog-friendly: Yes
The Grampian Transport Museum Association was founded in 1978 by a dedicated group of transport history enthusiasts.
Today, the award-winning Grampian Transport Museum showcases an impressive and diverse collection of transport exhibits, ranging from 19th-century horse-drawn chariots to some of the fastest modern vehicles.
Even if you’ve visited before, it’s worth returning, as the museum updates its collection annually and hosts special events and exhibits each season, making every visit unique.
While you’re there, be sure to stop by the Travellers Rest Tea Room for a refreshing cup of tea and a delicious bite to eat, adding to the experience.
Haughton Country Park
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Address: Montgarrie Rd
Contact Information: 01975 562107
Operating Hours: Daily: 24 hours
Best For: Nature lovers and families
Prices: Free
Accessibility: Disabled facilities available
Dog-friendly: Yes
Located on the outskirts of Alford, Haughton Country Park spans 40 hectares, with one-third covered by woodlands, another third by a vibrant wildflower meadow, and the remainder housing a well-equipped caravan park.
For those planning a day out, convenient car parking is available, making it easy to bring along your own barbecue for a fun-filled family picnic. To ensure safety, be sure to use the designated concrete slabs in the picnic table area to minimize the risk of fire.
Families will also appreciate the two dedicated play areas for children, offering plenty of space for kids to enjoy.
Alford Heritage Museum
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Address: 3 Mart Rd
Contact Information: 01975 562906 or [email protected]
Operating Hours: Thursday to Sunday: 12pm-4pm
Best For: History enthusiasts
Prices: Free
Accessibility: Wheelchair access available
Dog-friendly: Yes
The Alford Heritage Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich rural and agricultural history of the North East of Scotland, particularly the Alford and Donside area.
Housed in the old market building, “The Mart,” the museum retains its original sale ring, adding authenticity. Visitors can explore a wide array of farming tools, historical artifacts, and displays that showcase the daily lives of Alford’s past residents.
Key exhibits include the Old Schoolroom, Farmhouse Kitchen, Souter’s Workshop, Tailor’s Shop, and an old-style Grocer’s Shop, each meticulously recreated to reflect life in times gone by.
Alford Valley Railway
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Address: 70 Main St
Contact Information: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Daily: 11am-4pm
Best For: Train enthusiasts and families
Prices:
- Adult
- Single – £3
- Single Member – £2.40
- Return – £6
- Return Members – £4.80
- Concession (Age 60+ or Student)
- Single – £2.50
- Single Member – £5
- Return – £2
- Return Members – £4
- Children over 5 to 16
- Single – £1.50
- Single Member – £3
- Children under 5
- Single – Free
- Single Member – Free
- Family Ticket (2 Adults & up to 4 kids)
- Return Individual – £18
- Season Ticket per Adult
- Return Individual – £50
- Return Members – £45
- Family Season Ticket (2 Adults & up to 4 kids)
- Return Individual – £75
- Return Members – £70
Accessibility: Accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and disabled parking available
Dog-friendly: Yes
The Alford Valley Railway offers a delightful way to experience the picturesque countryside of the Donside region. This charming heritage railway, run by dedicated volunteers, is a favorite among families, providing a fun-filled ride that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Throughout the season, the railway hosts a variety of special events, including themed train rides, community gatherings, and holiday celebrations, ensuring that each visit is unique and memorable.
Craigievar Castle
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Address: Craigievar
Contact Information:
Operating Hours: 01339 883635
Best For: Castle lovers and photographers
Prices:
- Castle
- Adult – £16
- Concession – £12.50
- Family – £36.50
- One Adult Family – £31.50
- Young Scot – £1
- Grounds and Woodlands
- Adult – Free
- Family – Free
- Concession – Free
- One Adult Family – Free
Accessibility: None
Dog-friendly: Yes but only on the grounds
If you believe in fairy tales, Craigievar Castle is a must-visit. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, this iconic pink tower house is one of Scotland’s best-preserved castles, with construction starting in 1576 and completed by 1626.
Craigievar Castle remained a family home until the 1960s and now houses an impressive collection of historical artifacts and art, all displayed under natural light, just as they would have been in the past. The castle has no artificial lighting, adding to its authentic atmosphere.
Visitors can explore the castle through guided tours, which offer fascinating insights into the lives of its former owners and the treasures they left behind, making it a truly enchanting experience.
River Don
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Address: None
Contact Information: None
Operating Hours: None
Best For: Fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers
Prices: Free
Accessibility: Varies
Dog-friendly: Yes
One of northeastern Scotland’s major rivers, the River Don flows through Alford and has long played a vital role in the region’s agricultural and milling history.
The river is popular for peaceful strolls and picnics, especially along Haughton Country Park, which sits beside its banks.
Anglers frequent the area to fish for salmon and trout, while wildlife enthusiasts can spot otters and various bird species that thrive along the river’s edge.
Alford Golf Club
Address: Montgarrie Rd
Contact Information: 01975 562178
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 9am-4pm
- Wednesday to Thursday: 9am-11pm
- Friday to Saturday: 8am-12am
- Sunday: 8am-9pm
Best For: Golf enthusiasts
Prices:
- Visitors
- Round Ticket
- Weekday (Monday – Thursday) – £30
- Friday to Sunday – £35
- Weekday (Senior Club Golfers) – £20
- Golf Cart (buggy) – £30
- Special Offer Monday and Tuesday 2pm – 4pm – £20
- Special Offer Saturday and Sunday After 4pm – £20
- Day Ticket
- Weekday (Monday – Thursday) – £40
- Friday to Sunday – £45
- Weekday (Senior Club Golfers) – £30
- Golf Cart (buggy) – £45
- Round Ticket
- Members’ Annual Fee
- Ordinary Members – £525
- Adult Age 26 to 30 – £393.75
- Young Adult 18 to 25 – £262.50
- Student Aged 18-24 (in full time education) – £150
- Junior 12-17 – £50
- Junior up to 11 – £15
- Family Membership (2 Adults & Juniors) – £1050
- Limited 9 Hole Membership (contact club for details) – £200
- Limited 18 Hole Membership (contact club for details) – £320
Accessibility: Depends
Dog-friendly: No
Alford Golf Club is a picturesque 18-hole, par 68 course, known for its tree-lined fairways that provide a pleasant challenge for both beginners and seasoned golfers.
Spanning 5,422 yards, the course is set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish countryside, offering a scenic and enjoyable layout.
Throughout the year, the club hosts a variety of tournaments, events, and gatherings for local golfers and enthusiasts. After your round, you can unwind at the clubhouse, where the bar and restaurant offer a relaxing spot for a meal or drink.
Alford Ski Centre
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Address: Greystone Rd
Contact Information: 01975 563024 or [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 4:30pm – 9:30pm
- Tuesday: 10:45am – 9:00pm
- Wednesday: 12:00pm – 9:00pm
- Thursday: 4:30pm – 8:30pm
- Friday: 12:00pm – 8:15pm
- Saturday: 9:00am – 6:15pm
- Sunday: 9:30am – 4:30pm
Best For: Ski enthusiasts and families
Prices:
- Membership
- Adult – £55
- Junior – £43
- Open Ski with instructor
- Standard – £13.60
- Age Related – £11.35
- Low Income – £5.45
- Public Ski (excluding ski hire)
- Standard – £6.45
- Age Related – £4.20
- Low Income – £2.60
- Alford Tubing
- Standard – £12.10
- Age Related – £8.20
- Low Income – £4.85
- Alford Group Tubing
- Standard – £22.60
- Age Related – £22.60
- Low Income – £9.05
- Learn to Ski Membership (monthly Direct Debit)
- Standard – £55
- Age Related – £43
- Low Income – £22
Accessibility: Varies
Dog-friendly: No
If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, be sure to visit the Alford Ski Centre. This action-packed, family-friendly facility is perfect for snowboarding enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the center offers tubing for even more fun, which can be enjoyed solo or with friends in a group.
If you don’t have your own gear, you can rent all the necessary equipment on-site. For those looking to enhance their skills, qualified instructors are available to provide lessons, helping you improve your technique and boost your confidence on the slopes.
Where to Stay in Alford
Haughton Arms Hotel
Address: Main St
Contact Information: 01975 564219
Operating Hours:
- Breakfast – Served daily: 9am – 11:30pm
- All meals
- Monday: 11am – 9pm
- Tuesday to Sunday: 12pm – 8pm
- Bar
- Monday: 11am – 7pm
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11am – 11pm
- Friday to Saturday: 11am – 1am
- Sunday: 11am – 11pm
Pet-friendly: Yes
Amenities: Complimentary Wi-Fi, tea and coffee facilities, ensuite bathrooms
Facilities: On-site restaurant, bar, and beer garden
A beloved family-run establishment since the 1820s, the Haughton Arms Hotel was once known as The Station Hotel. While it has a rich history, the hotel has recently undergone refurbishments, seamlessly blending modern comforts with its historic charm.
In addition to comfortable accommodations, the Haughton Arms features a welcoming bar and beer garden, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Alford.
The hotel’s restaurant is particularly renowned for its authentic Scottish cuisine, with ingredients sourced from local producers. Guests particularly anticipate the Sunday roasts, which have become a highlight of the dining experience.
Self-Catering Cottages Around Alford
For those seeking greater independence, self-catering cottages can be an ideal choice. These accommodations often provide a more authentic experience, as they are typically located in residential neighborhoods, allowing you to immerse yourself in the true essence of Alford.
Amenities can vary significantly from one cottage to another, so it’s worth exploring your options. Some may include laundry facilities, complimentary breakfasts, and other perks, while others might offer a more basic setup.
