Aden Country Park near Mintlaw and self-catering in Scotland

Aden Park lies a couple of miles west of Mintlaw on the A950. It covers about 230 acres on the Buchan Estate which dates from the 18th Century.  A popular place for families to visit, the park offers woodland trails and bridleways, extensive lawned areas for picnics, games and barbecues, the ruins of a large mansion which children can explore, a sensory garden, a lake with ducks, a river (Ugie water) for paddling.  There is plenty of parking space in two car parks and good toilet facilities. Special events like agricultural shows are held here. 

The ruins of the large mansion house.  Grass now grows inside the floor of the house.  Children love to play hide and seek around it.  

To the left of the ruins is a wooden tree house high up in one of the old and very tall trees. Many of the trees have low branches - ideal for climbing.

Children will enjoy the rambling woodland trails that take visitors over small rickety wooden bridges.  The daffodils are delightful in the spring and rhododendrons in late May.

under the roots of a tree	a great tree to play in	a river for paddling/em>

The Aberdeenshire Farming Museum is one of the buildings close to the visitor centre.  It has a good display of the development of farming implements and the history of the estate. There is also a tea room where you can purchase snacks, drinks and ice creams, a wildlife discovery centre, craft shop and toilets. 

A well-established caravan site is located to the right of the entrance to the park. There is also access to the  Formartine and Buchan Way for walks and cycling.

The ruins of 13th Century Cistercian Deer Abbey lie a couple of miles further west.  

If you particularly enjoyed a day out at Aden Park or would like to tell people about some of the events and activities available in the area then write and tell us about it.  Photographs are most welcome.

Click here for a list of Scottish self-catering holiday cottages and apartments.

Ideas on Places to Stay in Aberdeenshire

Sleeps 2-6: Stranduff Lodge Croft is a delightful detached country cottage situated in an idyllic location, just outside the charming village of Kincardine O'Neil , in the heart of Royal Deeside.

Built out of granite in the 19th century, Stranduff Lodge Croft was originally a working croft, since upgraded to provide superior and spacious accommodation for tourists and visitors, the croft is an excellent base for exploration, adventure or relaxation. With the addition of the superb views (see the peak of Lochnagar on a fine day) and the spacious garden grounds (over half an acre) with barbecue and garden furniture, a stay in Stranduff will be a stay to remember.

Please click on the photograph to find out more about a stay in this country cottage on Deeside with views of Lochnagar.