Local Information

Banchory (Scottish Gaelic: Beannchar, ´blessed place´) lies approximately 20 miles west of Aberdeen adjacent to the magnificent River Dee. It is a popular tourist destination at the gateway to Royal Deeside. Banchory is surrounded by lovely rural countryside and attractive hills. The town has much to offer visitors with two famous castles nearby, Crathes and Drum - both run by the National Trust for Scotland. The Bridge of Feugh offers the chance to see salmon leaping and there are numerous fine golf courses.

The small town museum recognises Banchory as the birthplace of James Scott Skinner, a key figure in traditional Scottish music. Local landmarks include Scolty hill; a hill topped by a tower monument as a memorial to General Burnett, who fought alongside Wellington.

Since 2001 there has been rapid expansion in the area. To the North East of the town, a forested area 'the Hill of Banchory' has been replaced by a large housing estate and an influx of new residents. The Hill of Banchory primary school was opened in 2006 to cater for the increased population.