Attractions and Places To See around Cruden - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cruden include dramatic landscapes and historical sites along the North Sea coast of Aberdeenshire. This area features ruined castles, striking natural formations, and expansive beaches. Visitors can explore a blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty. The region offers diverse experiences, from coastal walks to wildlife viewing.
Best attractions and places to see around Cruden
- The most popular attractions is New Slains Castle, a castle that offers great views over the water.…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
New Slains Castle
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Hackley Bay
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Newburgh Seal Colony
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Specifically, don't walk towards the end of the spit at the north side of the river so as not to disturb the seals and ground nesting birds. …
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Forvie National Nature Reserve Visitor Centre
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Bullers of Buchan — Sea Cliffs and Rock Arch
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Tips from the Community
Bram Stoker spent a lot of his time around Cruden Bay and New Slain's Castle. He found it an inspiration for his famous book Dracula. 🧛♂️ I recommend accessing it from Cruden Bay, as it's a stunning walk along the cliff tops.
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The visitor centre is open daily 10am - 4pm. The impressive dune system is always open. 😉
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The first building on the site of New Slains Castle was constructed for Francis Hay, 9th Earl of Erroll, following the destruction of the original Slains Castle. Named Bowness, it was located on a sea cliff close to what is now the village of Cruden Bay. Francis Hay, 9th Earl of Erroll, a convert to Roman Catholicism, had conspired with other Catholic nobles, including the Earl of Huntly, with whom he joined in a brief rebellion in 1589. Erroll was also a signatory of the "Spanish Blanks", documents signed by members of the Catholic nobility of Scotland, and otherwise left to be filled in with the terms of Spanish aid. Erroll was declared a traitor in 1594, and Old Slains Castle was destroyed on the orders of King James VI. After a period abroad Erroll returned to Scotland, and abjured Roman Catholicism in 1597, subsequently returning to royal favour. He abandoned Old Slains and built a courtyard and square tower on the present site, around 1600.
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Surprised at how open to the public this is given its proximity to the cliff edge and how perilously perched one of the rooms is over the water below. I'm usually one to scoff/rail at over-eager H&S regs but in this case, I reckon closing off at least part of the castle might be in order. A fence at/around the headland wouldn't go amiss either. Approach at your own risk!
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A beautiful little sandy bay. The coastal path goes above it or you can descend into the bay.
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Forvie National Nature Reserve is a treasure located north of Newburgh in Aberdeenshire, in the northeast of Scotland. Owned and managed by NatureScot, the reserve is one of Scotland’s most dramatic stretches of coast3. It covers almost 1,000 hectares of sand dunes and dune heath between the North Sea and the estuary of the River Ythan1. The Sands of Forvie, which are the fifth largest sand dune system in Britain, dominate the southern end of the reserve. These sands are the least disturbed by human activity in the country.
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The Bullers of Buchan are a geological coastal feature. It is possible to spot puffins here in early summer. You can combine this with a walk along the dramatic sea cliffs to the north towards Boddam and Peterhead. Or head south towards Slain's Castle and Cruden Bay.
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Don't walk there. Specifically, don't walk towards the end of the spit at the north side of the river so as not to disturb the seals and ground nesting birds. There are plenty of signs on the trails from the Forvie Car Park alluding to this. If you want to have a good look at the seals, park at the car park near the Newburgh Golf Club on the south side of the river just as you come into Newburgh from the south, signposted "Seals" Or park in the village and walk along the track as the car park if often busy. Then walk along the beach. Take binoculars and lots of photographs. You won't disturb the main body of seals 100 yards across the river and you will easily see them even without binoculars. And there are always a few curious seals in the water keeping and eye on folks on the beach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Cruden?
Cruden boasts several stunning natural features. You can visit Bullers of Buchan — Sea Cliffs and Rock Arch, a dramatic collapsed sea cave where you might spot puffins in spring and early summer. Another highlight is Hackley Bay, a beautiful secluded sandy bay accessible via the coastal path. Don't miss Cruden Bay Beach, known for its distinctive pink sands and expansive coastline, perfect for walks.
Where can I see wildlife near Cruden?
For wildlife viewing, the Newburgh Seal Colony, a short drive from Cruden Bay, is renowned for its large population of seals. It's best to view them from a distance, especially from the south side of the river, to avoid disturbance. The Bullers of Buchan are also a haven for seabirds, including puffins, particularly in spring and early summer.
Are there historical sites to visit in Cruden?
Yes, Cruden is rich in history. The most prominent historical site is New Slains Castle, a dramatic 16th-century ruined castle perched on a cliff, famously believed to have inspired Bram Stoker's *Dracula*. Other historical points include Port Erroll Harbour, St James the Less Church, and Bishop's Bridge, dating back to 1697.
What walking trails are available around Cruden?
The coastal path from Cruden Bay to the Bullers of Buchan offers a scenic walk with dramatic views. You can also explore the trails around Forvie National Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, which provides access to sand dunes, beaches, and mud flats, important for seabirds and seals. For more detailed routes, you can find various running trails around Cruden, including a moderate 12 km loop from the Forvie Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, on the Running Trails around Cruden guide.
Are there cycling routes near Cruden's attractions?
Yes, there are several cycling options. You can find various routes for touring bicycles, such as the 16.6 km 'Peterhead Prison Museum – Odeta loop from Peterhead', or more challenging rides like the 87.4 km 'Hackley Bay – Platform 5 Café & Sweet Shop loop'. For road cycling enthusiasts, routes like the 34.7 km 'Slains Castle Ruins – RNAS Longside Airship Base loop from Cruden Bay' are available. Explore these and more on the Cycling around Cruden guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Cruden guide.
What are the literary connections in Cruden Bay?
Cruden Bay has strong literary ties, particularly with Bram Stoker. The ruined New Slains Castle is widely believed to have been the inspiration for his iconic novel *Dracula*. Stoker was a frequent visitor to the area and even wrote several chapters of *Dracula* while staying at the Kilmarnock Arms Hotel, where his signature is preserved.
Is Cruden Bay suitable for families?
Yes, Cruden Bay offers family-friendly activities. The expansive Cruden Bay Beach is ideal for walks and playing. The Forvie National Nature Reserve Visitor Centre provides information and facilities, making it a good starting point for exploring the reserve's natural beauty and spotting wildlife. Viewing the seals at Newburgh Beach can also be an exciting experience for children.
What is the best time of year to visit Cruden Bay?
The spring and early summer months (April to July) are particularly good for visiting Cruden Bay. During this time, you have the best chance to see seabirds, including puffins, at places like the Bullers of Buchan. The weather is generally milder, making coastal walks and outdoor activities more enjoyable. However, the dramatic landscapes are impressive year-round.
Where can I find parking for attractions in Cruden Bay?
Parking is generally available for key attractions. For New Slains Castle, parking is best in Cruden Bay itself, followed by a short walk to the castle. There is also a good-sized car park providing access to the Bullers of Buchan. For the Newburgh Seal Colony, parking is available near the Newburgh Golf Club on the south side of the river, or in the village.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Cruden?
Visitors particularly appreciate the dramatic coastal scenery and the historical intrigue. The stunning views over the water from New Slains Castle and the magnificent coast at the Bullers of Buchan are frequently highlighted. The secluded beauty of Hackley Bay and the unique wildlife viewing opportunities at the Newburgh Seal Colony also receive high praise.
Are there any ancient historical sites in the Cruden area?
Beyond the medieval castles, the Cruden area also features the Catto Long Barrow, a massive stone structure that provides evidence of prehistoric activity, offering a glimpse into the region's ancient past.
Can I play golf in Cruden Bay?
Yes, Cruden Bay is home to the renowned Cruden Bay Golf Club. Established in 1791, its current course, designed by Old Tom Morris and Archie Simpson, opened in 1899. It is celebrated as a world-class links course, offering challenging play amidst panoramic coastal views and impressive dunes.
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