Most picture-perfect photo opportunities at Aberdeen Kiltwalk

This year, the 18-mile Mighty Stride has been revised to start at Duthie Park and finish at Bellfield Park in Banchory. With most of the walk following the Deeside Way, which follows the line of the Old Royal Deeside Railway, walkers can choose from ample must-see photo opportunities as they step out for the charities of their choice.

Kiltwalk marketing manager, Susanne Morrison, said: “We’ve shaken things up a bit this year, reducing the length of the Mighty Stride and starting at Duthie Park, where we used to finish. We also have a new route for the Wee Wander starting at historic Crathes Castle, one of Scotland’s best-preserved castles set in beautiful, highly Instagrammable gardens.

“With amazing beauty spots, national landmarks and a few local treasures to enjoy enroute, we can’t wait for our Kiltwalk Heroes to discover the sights on our new routes and raise much-needed funds for the charities that mean most to them.”

Key among the must-see sights are:

Duthie Park Bandstand

Prominently sited in the centre of the main green, and dating back to 1893, Duthie Park band stand’s elaborate cast-iron work survives in near-perfect condition. Stand in the middle and pretend you’re a star.

The Deeside Railway Station

Based at the award-winning Milton of Crathes station, the Royal Deeside Railway recreates the original Deeside Line from Aberdeen to Ballater with a specially converted steam train running on its tracks.

Drumoak Village and Forest

Now a ruin, the Category B-listed Dalmaik Old Parish Church, dates back to 1062 and was dedicated to St Mayot. After being rebuilt several times over the centuries the building was finally abandoned in 1837 after a new church opened.

Park Bridge

The Category A-listed Park Bridge has been closed to traffic since 2019, but is still accessed by pedestrians and cyclists. Designed by engineer John Willett, it features two cast-iron arches supported by masonry piers and a wooden deck.

Banchory

Banchory’s famous landmark Scolty Tower, built in memory of local man General William Burnett who fought alongside Wellington in the Napoleonic Wars, points to the sky from the top of Scolty Hill and is visible from most places in the town.

Lovers Walk, Peterculter

You’ll have to be keen to visit this particular beauty spot, which is a short distance from the main Mighty Stride path, but it’s worth it for wonderful views of the River Dee.

Crathes Castle

The setting-off point for the Wee Wander, Crathes Castle can trace its history back to the 14th century when King Robert the Bruce gifted the land of Leys to the Burnett family with the castle built in the 16th century. It is one of the finest castles in Scotland and features a 4-acre walled garden.

The Aberdeen Kiltwalk takes place on Sunday 4 June, followed by Dundee on 20 August and Edinburgh on 17 September.

To sign up for the three remaining Kiltwalk events of 2023, visit our events page.