The 10 Best Budget-friendly Things to do in , Scotland

Delightful small heritage museum run by a dedicated group of volunteers. The Museum is open from the beginning of April to the end of October

17th-century castle owned by the same family for over 350 years. Open April to September; access is by guided tours only. There are steep spiral stairs to the upper floors. A stunning castle in a wonderful setting, said to be the inspiration for Disney's castles.

Located in the vibrant village of Alford, just 45 minutes from Aberdeen, the museum boasts an impressive range of transport exhibits, from travelling chariots, of the 1800's, to some of the fastest cars ever made. Every season the museum refreshes around one-third of its exhibits –this year's exhibition includes 'The Guy Martin Collection' and 'It's Electric' which gives an in-depth look at the past, present and future of electric vehicles. A few old favourites remain, including our MACK Snowplough, Billy Connolly's Boom Lowrider motortrike and one of our Curator's favourites, the ex-Grampian Police Rover SD1 Vitesse. Our Tea Room serves an array of hot drinks, light lunches and snacks. At the present time, we have in place comprehensive COVID 19 safety measures to keep our visitors as safe as possible. A clear signage system explains how it all works. To prevent overcrowding, we have moved to online bookings accessed through our website.

The Linn O' Dee gives unrivalled access to some fine examples of classic features of a Highland landscape: remnants of the ancient Caledonian pine forest, heather moorland and parts of the high Cairngorm plateau. Fifteen of the Cairngorms Munros can be found on Mar Lodge estate. The less adventurous can enjoy our way marked trails, starting from the car park. The car park also hosts a seasonal information hut and toilet facilities. Parking in the car park is £3 per day for non members or free for National Trust for Scotland or National Trust members.

Belwade Farm , the Scottish Home for World Horse Welfare . Rehabilitating Horses/Ponies and Donkeys from all over the UK , who have needed to come into our care. Come and see the work that we do to help them to find their forever homes . Apart from this , we are in possibly the most beautiful part of Royal Deeside and there are plenty of walks with your dogs. Enjoy a lovely Lunch or coffee in our scenic Bistro. Or maybe celebrate your special occasion within our Stone Circle , or use our conference facilities . Belwade has so much to offer everyone ... not forgetting our Fairy Garden for the kids young and old .Come and see for yourself . Open Weds through to Sunday 11am - 4.00pm , other times by arrangement . Please see our website for up and coming events at Belwade Farm .

Mar Lodge Estate occupies nearly 7% of the Cairngorms National Park, covers some of the most remote and scenic wild land in Scotland, including four of the five highest mountains in the UK. Within its boundaries are fine examples of classic features of a Highland landscape: remnants of the ancient Caledonian pine forest, heather moorland, juniper scrub and a part of the high Cairngorm plateau. Fifteen of the National Trust for Scotland's 46 Munros can be found in the Cairngorms around Mar Lodge. The estate is recognised as one of the most important nature conservation landscapes in the British Isles: over 40% of the estate is covered by national and international nature conservation designations. Visitors can park in either the Linn of Dee or Linn of Quoich car parks and enjoy many outdoor pursuits such as woodland walks, hillwalking, cycling, climbing and horse riding.

Enjoy a guided tour of 12 furnished rooms in this 17th century Castle. Ghosts and villains, Jacobites and high fashion, the story begins in 1628 when the Earl of Mar built Mar Castle as his Highland hunting lodge. Associated with all 3 Jacobite uprisings, the castle was burned by the infamous Jacobite, the Black Colonel, and was the base for the Earl of Mar as he planned the 1715 uprising. After the 1745 rebellion, it was a garrison for Hanoverian soldiers stationed there to make sure that no-one dared break the law and wear tartan or carry weapons. In the 20th century, the castle was home to American fashion journalist, Editor of Harper's Bazaar and wife of the Chief of Clan Farquharson, who decorated the rooms in her signature Schiaparelli pink. English and German audio guides and tours with friendly local guides who enjoy sharing their knowledge and stories of the area. There are hidden teddy bears for the children to count as well as a small gift shop which also sells teas, coffees and hot chocolate.

The oldest club on Royal Deeside, Aboyne is an immaculately maintained, challenging golf course with spectacular views of the surrounding hills & countryside. 6000 yards of impeccable fairways and faultless greens - a golfer's haven. Aboyne embraces every golfer, from beginner to Scottish Internationalist. Our welcoming, family friendly clubhouse allows you to soothe away your cares on our sunny balconies where you may catch a glimpse of an osprey, otters or the swans on the loch. Aboyne is the understated jewel in Aberdeenshire's golfing crown. Honoured to be chosen by the R&A to host the 'Coronation Foursomes' Area Finals in August 2018. Host venue Scottish Golf North-East District Men's Open August 2018: a World Amateur Ranking Qualifying Event.