Celebrating September with our favourite things to do!
The kids may be back at school after a glorious sunny summer, but here in Banffshire our doors stay wide open!
The weather in September can be generally favourable, with cooler night that are perfect for snuggling up in front of the woodburning fire or cosy hot tub under the stars. With the school term underway, our communities settle back into their natural rhythm.
Life may feel a little quieter, but this is when the warm, vibrant, and truly authentic side of the North East of Scotland shines through and come rain or come shine, many of our local attractions remain open for most of the year and it’s the perfect time to visit!
Golden Opportunities (that are free of charge!)
Autumn in Banffshire is nothing short of magical. As the seasons turn, the landscapes shift from the bright greens of summer into a glowing palette of amber, russet, and gold. Whether you’re wandering through ancient woodland or venturing further afield into the mountains, this is one of the most breathtaking times to explore the North East of Scotland.
Here at Mayen, we’re surrounded by acres of enchanting woodland. September and October are particularly special and every walk reveals something new; leaves changing colour, crisp air filling your lungs, and golden light filtering through the trees. It’s the perfect place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and simply enjoy the magic of the season.
Just a stone’s throw away lies the Cairngorms National Park, one of Scotland’s most iconic playgrounds. With its network of walking trails, shimmering lochs (such as Loch Morlich), and dramatic mountain scenery, it offers endless opportunities for adventure. Spend the day hiking along forest paths, enjoy a lakeside picnic, or simply pause to take in the sweeping views that stretch for miles.
Explore our charming coastal towns and make friends with the locals
Just 20 minutes from the majestic Moray Firth, Mayen offers the perfect base to explore Scotland’s sparkling northeast coastline. Dotted with picture-perfect fishing villages and vibrant harbour towns, this stretch of coast attracts thousands of visitors during the summer months. But when the school holidays draw to a close, something even more special happens. The pace slows, communities return to their roots, and the authentic charm of coastal life shines through. Weekly markets, lively community festivals, and local traditions create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.
For those who love dramatic scenery, the cliffside villages of Pennan and Crovie are unmissable. Perched on the edge of the North Sea, their tiny cottages and sweeping views make them feel almost timeless — a perfect spot to pause, breathe, and soak in the beauty of Scotland’s rugged coastline.
If you prefer a mix of coastal charm and vibrant culture, head to Cullen and Portsoy. Cullen is famed for its golden beach and as the birthplace of the hearty Cullen Skink soup, while Portsoy is known for its quirky vintage shops, bustling harbour, and even world-class eateries. Wander through cobbled streets, browse antiques and crafts, or settle into a cosy pub where the fires roar, the food is hearty, and the locals are always ready for a chat.
From windswept cliffs to hidden coves, and from vibrant markets to fireside evenings, Banffshire’s coastal towns offer an authentic Scottish experience that lingers long after you leave.
Get creative and discover Scotland with the NEOS Festival
Every September, creativity spills out of the homes and galleries of our regions talented artists as North East Open Studios (NEOS) celebrates art and imagination. As one of Scotland’s most celebrated volunteer-run festivals, NEOS brings together painters, sculptors, photographers, makers, and visionaries of every kind to showcase the incredible talent rooted in our local communities.
Download the NEOS map or the interactive app, and set off on your own art-inspired road trip. Each stop is a chance to step inside an artist’s world — from studios tucked away in historic towns, to workshops nestled in rolling countryside. Along the way, you’ll not only discover unique artworks but also the stories, passions, and inspirations that fuel the region’s creative spirit while winding through stunning Scottish countryside, past golden fields, coastal cliffs, and charming villages.
Discover Historic Banffshire’s, Castle’s and Forts
Banffshire isn’t just blessed with beautiful coastlines and golden woodlands, it’s also a land steeped in history in the centre of Castle Country. Scattered across the region are castles, ruins, and heritage sites that tell the stories of centuries gone by and a chance to step back in time while enjoying some of the most atmospheric scenery in Scotland.
Perched dramatically on a clifftop overlooking the North Sea, Findlater Castle is a striking ruin which was once the stronghold of the Ogilvy clan. Its rugged beauty and breathtaking location make it a favourite for photographers and history-lovers alike and dozens of seabird breeds roost along the clifftops and rockfacing mountains. Also looking out to thew North Sea is the ruined Slains Castle which is slightly further afield near Cruden Bay and fabled to be the inspiration behing Bram Stoker’s Dracula amongst some of his other famous works.
One of the area’s most iconic landmarks is Duff House, a grand Georgian mansion on the outskirts of Banff. Now part of the National Galleries of Scotland, its elegant rooms display world-class artworks, while its grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll (keep an eye out for the family Mausoleum, Ice House and iconic Alvah Bridge!), but there are countless castles including the world famous Fyvie, Craigievar and Drum Castle’s to name a few (check out some of other other blog pieces for a more detailed castle trail guide nearby).
For something truly unique, head inland to the discreet Battle Hill near Huntly or marvel at the mysterious Rothiemay Stone Circles which are nearby dating back thousands of years, and we can’t forget the famous Leith Hall and Gardens which has very famous ties to Mayen’s founding family!
Pumpkin Patches and World Class Produce from Farm to Plate
Autumn in Aberdeenshire isn’t just about golden leaves and bracing walks — it’s also harvest season, when the countryside bursts into life with fresh produce, cosy farm shops, and family-friendly pumpkin patches. It’s the perfect time to slow down, savour the flavours of the season, and enjoy authentic rural life in the North East of Scotland.
Scattered across the region, farm shops are a treasure trove of local goodness. Thorneybank Farm Shop near Rothienorman is one of the best in the country, with homegrown vegetables and freshly baked bread and cakes, to award-winning cheeses and jams showcasing the best of Aberdeenshire’s rich farmland. Many, like Marshall’s Farm Shop or Barra Berries also have cafés where you can warm up with hearty soups, scones fresh from the oven, or a steaming mug of hot chocolate after a crisp autumn walk.
For families, nothing says autumn quite like a visit to a pumpkin patch and Inverurie’s Pumpkin Ranch has you covered! Across Aberdeenshire, many farms open their gates in September and October, inviting little ones (and grown-ups too!) to wander through colourful fields in search of the perfect pumpkin. It’s a wholesome day out, complete with wheelbarrows, muddy boots, and plenty of photo opportunities. Some farms such as Easter Anguston also host autumn festivals, with haybale mazes, tractor rides, and seasonal treats to make the experience even more special.
Unlock History with Aberdeenshire’s Doors Open Day!
Every September, Aberdeenshire throws open its doors to hidden treasures as part of Scotland’s Doors Open Days festival, the country’s largest free celebration of heritage and culture. For one weekend only, castles, museums, lighthouses, and even quirky venues like gliding clubs and nature reserves invite curious visitors inside and behind the scenes, offering access that’s not available at any other time of year.
In 2025, the festival falls on 20–21 September in Aberdeenshire (although in Aberdeen City it’s the 6th September), giving you the perfect excuse for an autumn adventure with over 60 participating venues. With a dedicated map, you can chart your own route through history and step inside grand castles like Craigston, ride through the Alford Valley Railway or go behind the bars of the notorious Peterhead Prison Musuem.