With only a few weeks left of the summer holidays, it’s definitely time to plan a great family day out in Aberdeenshire.
If you’ve lots of little ones to entertain, they can work off some excess energy outdoors, in the Den at Auchenblae which is just a couple of miles from Castleton Farm.
This is a beautiful woodland park that is maintained by the village community and is suitable for children of all ages. There’s swings, slides, a rocking boat and a wooden climbing frame as well as outdoor tennis courts for older ones.
While you’re getting into the swing of things, why not pop into Farm to Table at Westerton of Pitarrow to say hello to their friendly goats. If you’re lucky, you might get the chance to feed them as well.
And that might put you in the mood to try our delicious strawberry and goat’s cheese salad on our lunch menu. Young ones of all ages will also love our freshly made ice cream blended with our own tasty berries.
For some indoors weather-proof entertainment, why not visit Dizzy Rascals, just a few minutes away in Laurencekirk?
This family-run play and sensory centre is housed in the village’s Old Mart and is sure to let them work up an appetite. We’d also flag up Laurencekirk Gala Day on 19 August which has loads of stalls and things to do, as well as pig racing (which we presume is for spectators).
Coastal adventure
If you want to go coastal, there are beautiful harbours to visit at Stonehaven, Johnshaven and Gourdon. An indoors option includes the Tolbooth Museum in Stonehaven, which tells some of the interesting stories from the town’s past. The Maggie Law Museum in Gourdon gives a great insight into the maritime history on that part of the coast.
You can continue the journey – sea to soup plate – with a large bowl of our Castleton Cullen skink for lunch, traditionally made with white fish, cream and potatoes.
If you fancy a little bit of history, why not visit Dunnottar Castle, a medieval fortress on a rocky headland, two miles south of Stonehaven.
It’s played host to some of the nation’s greatest historical figures, including William Wallace and Mary Queen of Scots. It is famous for its role in saving the Scottish Crown Jewels from Oliver Cromwell’s army in the 1650s.
Celebrate your Braveheart adventure with a Castleton haggis and cheese panini or maybe try the popular Balmoral panini, packed with chicken and haggis, and oozing with peppercorn sauce.
A head of steam
If you’re exploring south of Castleton Farm, why not visit Brechin cathedral. Its 11th century round tower is one of only two Irish-styles round towers in Scotland (the other is in Abernethy).
Or take a trip on the steam and diesel locomotives at the Caledonian Railway and journey along to Bridge of Dun station and back. As well as regular scheduled trips, there is a special day out with Thomas (of Tank Engine fame) on 2 & 3 September. And looking further ahead, the Polar Express is running throughout November and December – when you can come along and see what’s on the Castleton menu, as we change with the seasons.
So it’s definitely time to plan your grand family day out in Aberdeenshire – there’s loads to do. Our kids menu always has something to appeal to everyone, from sausages and chips to pasta and pizza.
If you’re travelling with furry friends, check out our suggestions for great walks nearby
And we’re always here at Castleton Farm with a friendly welcome and lots of tasty treats to keep you and the whole family satisfied.
