Days out in Banff and Macduff
If you’re exploring Scotland’s northeast coast, the twin towns of Banff and Macduff are a must-visit. Sitting on opposite sides of the River Deveron, these coastal neighbours each bring their own charm.
Banff is a historic gem, with elegant Georgian architecture, sandy beaches, and a rich cultural past as a former royal burgh and many historic sites.
Across the bridge lies Macduff, a bustling fishing town with a proud maritime heritage and stunning sea views. Its working harbour is still the heart of the community, and the Macduff Marine Aquarium offers a window into the incredible marine life of the Moray Firth.
Together, Banff and Macduff blend history, scenery, great food and local character, making them the perfect stop for anyone seeking an authentic slice of coastal Scotland.
Duff House
A jewel in the crown of Banff, Duff House is an impressive 18th-century Georgian mansion designed by the famous architect William Adam. Today it’s part of the National Galleries of Scotland, housing an outstanding collection of paintings, furniture, and decorative arts which are open to the public to view and there is a lovely cafe to finish you tour. The estate grounds are lovely for a wander too, with riverside walks and plenty of wildlife and a playpark for the children.
Banff Harbour & Beach
For a dose of sea air, head down to Banff Harbour. The sheltered marina is perfect for a stroll, with boats bobbing gently against the backdrop of the Moray Firth. Just beyond is Banff’s sandy beach, a peaceful place to relax, skim stones, or take in a sunset. On a clear day, you might even spot dolphins offshore and several mobile food houses line the shores in the Summer months.
The beach is popular with water sports enthusiasts all year round including wind surfing, wild swimming and kayaking in the open shores, while Suds Surf School and Cullen Sea School offer classes for enthusiasts of all levels.
Macduff Guided Charter Cruises
For those who are keen to explore the high shores, Macduff Charter Guide Cruises offer untamed tours of the Banff and Buchan Coastline, with the chance to spot Puffins, Dolphins, Whales and a variety of other wildlife.
Running daily from Macduff, the 3 hours cruise takes you along the Moray Firth and stops by several inland caves and bays and it’s an experience that we highly recommend (dogs and children are also welcome!).
The Spotty Bag Shop
A visit to Banff wouldn’t be complete without popping into this beloved local landmark. Known to all as the Spotty Bag Shop, it’s a quirky mix of department store and treasure trove. You’ll find toys, gifts, homeware, and a café to refuel in. It’s one of those “you have to see it to believe it” places that always raises a smile. Enjoy coffee and a scone or a delicious hearty lunch in the Bridgeview Restaurant overlooking the River Deveron.
Tarlair by the Cliffs
Set dramatically beneath the cliffs just outside Macduff, Tarlair has featured an outdoor swimming pool for over 40 years and has recently been refurbished to include cosy cafe with the most breathtaking coastal views!
Above the clifftops, Tarlair golf course is as scenic as they come. Even if you don’t play, the views alone are worth the visit, with sweeping panoramas of the coastline and the open North Sea. Golfers rave about the challenging holes and the sea breeze that keeps you on your toes.
Coastal Walks
The coastline around Banff and Macduff is ideal for walkers and there are cliff-top paths with spectacular views, quiet beaches, and the chance to spot seabirds and dolphins. A favourite route is the walk from Banff to Whitehills, a relatively straightforward but breathtakingly scenic walk passing picturesque fishing villages along the way with some small cafes and of course traditional fish and chip shops along the way!
Walking through the grounds of Duff House is another of our favourite strolls, taking you along the River Deveron and eventually towards the breath taking Alvah Bridge. The Banff and Macduff circular walk which takes you above the hills of Macduff with panoramic views across the Deveron Bay, and slightly further along the coast will take you to Gamrie which forms the coastal villages of Crovie and Gardenstown.
Farm (or Harbour) to Plate Dining for Everyone
Banff and Macduff have plenty of cosy spots to eat and drink, from quirky cafés to fine dining with sea views. In Banff, the Cherry Tree Café is loved for coffee and homemade cakes, while Gilly’s @ Bairds serves hearty soups and scones in a welcoming setting. For something more refined, the Fife Lodge Hotel offers locally sourced Scottish dishes in elegant surroundings. Across the bridge in Macduff, you’ll find Annie’s Cakery at The Platform, perfect for light lunches and sweet treats with bay views, and the Seafront Café overlooking the harbour, known for friendly service and fresh-cooked meals. The Corner Bistro adds a homely touch with generous portions, and for a memorable evening, the Knowes Hotel combines fresh seafood, fine wines, and stunning coastal views.
And when in Rome, or Banff as I should say, why not sample one of our finest fish and chip shop takeaways, a staple tradition in Scotland for many many years!
World Class Fish Markets
Banff and Macduff are know for their rich maritime heritage, and Macduff Harbour still lands fine fresh North Sea fish on a daily basis which is adored by our local communities.
The Macduff Fish Market and Downies of Whitehills offer fresh produce straight off the boats and we highly recommend taking a visit to see what goodies they have on offer. After a day of exploring Banffshire, we can’t imagine a better way to use the Kamado Barbeque in your cottage garden than to grill some fresh lobsters or cook up a seafood feast in your cottage kitchen!
Banff Castle
Perched subtly in heart town, the site of Banff Castle hints at Scotland’s medieval past and stands out with it’s beautiful yellow walls. Originally built in the 12th century, the castle was once a stronghold of the powerful de Banff family and played a role in local feudal and military history. Today, only fragments remain and instead a gorgeous Georgian Mansion stands, but the site offers visitors sweeping views over the town, the River Deveron, and the Moray Firth, and regularly plays host to brilliant family activity days. Walking around the area, you can imagine the castle’s former prominence and enjoy a peaceful glimpse into Banff’s long and storied past.
