Attractions and Places To See around Buchan East - Top 20

Buchan East is renowned for its dramatic coastal scenery. You can visit the Bullers of Buchan — Sea Cliffs and Rock Arch, a unique geological formation with a collapsed sea cave. Another highlight is Fraserburgh Beach, known for its golden sand dunes and opportunities for watersports and seabird watching. Further south, Newburgh Beach is famous for its large colony of seals, while Cruden Bay offers a beautiful sandy shoreline.

Yes, the region is rich in history. Explore the atmospheric ruins of Slains Castle, perched on a clifftop, which is said to have inspired Bram Stoker's *Count Dracula*. You can also visit Deer Abbey, maintained by Historic Scotland, or discover ancient sites like the Catto Long Barrow and Tumuli, which date back to Pictish times. The Pitfour Bath House (Temple of Theseus) and Drinnie's Wood Observatory also offer glimpses into the area's past.

Families can enjoy walks along the sandy shores of Fraserburgh Beach, where children can play in the dunes and spot seabirds. The Drinnie Woods Picnic Area provides a great starting point for easy woodland walks, perfect for a family outing. Observing the large seal colony at Newburgh Beach is also a memorable experience for all ages.

Buchan East offers a variety of walking routes, from coastal paths to woodland trails. You can enjoy dramatic cliff walks around the Bullers of Buchan — Sea Cliffs and Rock Arch, heading towards Boddam or Slains Castle. For easier options, explore the trails around Drinnie Woods, starting from the Drinnie Woods Picnic Area. The Formartine and Buchan Way is also a popular path for longer hikes. For more easy hiking options, check out the guide to Easy hikes around Buchan East.

Yes, the region is well-suited for cycling. The Formartine and Buchan Way is a popular path for both hiking and cycling. You can find various road cycling routes, such as the Fraserburgh & Mintlaw loop or the RNAS Longside Airship Base – Slains Castle Ruins loop. For more detailed routes, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Buchan East guide.

For mountain biking enthusiasts, Buchan East offers several trails. Popular routes include the Formartine and Buchan Way: Strichen and Old Deer Loop, and the Drinnie Woods Picnic Area – Aden Country Park loop. You can explore more options in the MTB Trails around Buchan East guide.

The best time to visit the Buchan East coast is generally during late spring and summer (May to September). This period offers milder weather, longer daylight hours, and the best chance to spot seabirds like puffins at the Bullers of Buchan — Sea Cliffs and Rock Arch. Early summer is particularly good for puffin sightings.

Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting the Pitfour Estate, which includes the intriguing, albeit dilapidated, Pitfour Bath House (Temple of Theseus). The restored Drinnie's Wood Observatory, built in 1845, offers historical interest and is occasionally open to the public, providing a unique viewpoint over the estate.

Newburgh Beach is a prime location to observe seals in Buchan East. It is home to a large colony, often numbering over three hundred, which can be seen on the north bank of the Ythan estuary or on the sand stretching out to sea.

Visitors particularly appreciate the dramatic coastal scenery, especially around the Bullers of Buchan — Sea Cliffs and Rock Arch, which is described as magnificent and well worth a stop. The expansive sandy beaches like Fraserburgh Beach are loved for walks and watersports, while the woodland areas like Drinnie Woods offer peaceful natural escapes.

Yes, Buchan East is home to notable golf courses. Peterhead Golf Course is one of the oldest 18-hole courses in the world, offering a historic golfing experience. Cruden Bay Golf Course is internationally renowned for its challenging play and magnificent scenery, making it a popular choice for golf enthusiasts.

Many attractions, such as the Bullers of Buchan — Sea Cliffs and Rock Arch, have good-sized car parks providing easy access. The Drinnie Woods Picnic Area also offers free parking and serves as a convenient starting point for exploring Drinnie Woods and the Pitfour Estate.