The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Bennachie
4.4
(193)
2,460
hikers
30
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Bennachie traverse a diverse landscape featuring distinctive granite peaks, mixed woodlands, and open moorland. The region is characterized by prominent summits like Oxen Craig and Mither Tap, offering extensive panoramic views across Aberdeenshire. Lower slopes feature sheltered woodlands, transitioning to heather moorland at higher elevations. Water features such as the Clachie Burn and views of the River Don add to the scenic variety.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Bennachie
- The most popular family friendly…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.8
(19)
132
hikers
15.3km
05:09
730m
730m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(18)
118
hikers
11.1km
03:29
430m
430m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(5)
80
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
19
hikers
10.2km
03:08
350m
350m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
22
hikers
9.43km
02:46
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
You can still see evidence of the quarry that operated here around 1800. Nearby properties were built from the local granite.
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Many people focus on the distinctive Mither Tap. However, this is actually the highest point on Bennachie. There are a number of peaks to explore up on Bennachie.
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Nicely signposted in the middle of the bushes. The Millstone Hill Trail branches off north to Mither Tap. I liked the footbridges that you balance on here.
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The name gowk stane (English: cuckoo stone or fool's stone) has been applied to certain standing stones and glacial erratics in Scotland, often found in prominent geographical situations. - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gowk_stane
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Recreating a 19th Century Colony Kailyard (kitchen garden)
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This is slightly off the track and has a solid and well built picnic bench where it is nice to have a warm drink on a cold day ad snack or a dip of your feet on a warm day. The area is well sheltered by trees. There is also lots of lovely wildlife to spot.
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The perfect half way spot for a wild cup of tea. There is a lovely tree canopy that shelters you from the elements if need be. I also managed to lie on the forest floor and listen to the trees swaying.
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Beautiful stretch of singletrack with epic views of the surrounding Bennachie hills.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Bennachie?
There are around 30 family-friendly hiking routes around Bennachie, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging ascents. You'll find 7 easy routes perfect for younger children or those new to hiking, and 20 moderate routes for families looking for a bit more adventure.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in Bennachie?
Family hikes in Bennachie offer a wonderful variety of landscapes. You'll traverse sheltered mixed woodlands on the lower slopes, transition to open moorland and heather in upper areas, and encounter distinctive granite peaks. Many trails also feature panoramic views across Aberdeenshire, including Donside and Deeside.
Are there any easy circular walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, there are several easy circular walks. A great option is the Bennachie Visitor Centre – Picnic Area by the Pond loop from The Colony, which is an easy 4.2 km route perfect for a gentle family outing.
What historical sites or points of interest can we see on the trails?
Bennachie is rich in history. You can explore the impressive remains of an Iron Age Pictish fort at the Mither Tap hillfort summit. The area also features the ruined houses and fields of the Bennachie colonists from the 1800s, offering a glimpse into the area's social history. Further afield, you can visit the Dunnideer Hill Fort Ruins or the ancient East Aquhorthies Stone Circle.
Are there any moderate routes that offer good views for families with older children?
For families seeking more elevation and rewarding views, the Bennachie Visitor Centre – Oxen Craig Summit loop from The Colony is a moderate 11.1 km route that takes you towards the highest point of Bennachie, offering extensive panoramic vistas.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Bennachie?
The family-friendly trails around Bennachie are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 180 ratings. Reviewers often praise the well-marked paths, the diverse scenery, and the sense of adventure suitable for all ages.
Is there a visitor centre or facilities available for families?
Yes, the Bennachie Visitor Centre serves as an excellent starting point for many trails. It offers facilities such as toilets and snacks, along with exhibitions detailing the history of the hill, its wildlife, and the communities that lived there. You can find more information at bennachievisitorcentre.org.uk.
What kind of wildlife might we spot on a family hike?
Bennachie's diverse landscapes provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for red squirrels, cuckoos, roe deer, and numerous species of woodland birds. There are even wildlife viewing areas available near the Bennachie Visitor Centre.
Are there any longer, more challenging routes for active families?
For active families looking for a full day out, the Oxen Craig Summit – Bennachie Visitor Centre loop from Oyne is a challenging 15.3 km route. It offers a significant ascent and the chance to conquer Oxen Craig, the highest point of Bennachie.
What is the best time of year to visit Bennachie with family?
Bennachie is enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for families, with blooming heather and longer daylight hours. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. Winter hikes are possible but require appropriate gear for potentially colder and wetter conditions.
Are there any trails that offer views of Mither Tap?
Absolutely. The View of Mither Tap – Picnic Area by the Pond loop from The Maiden Stone is a moderate 10.2 km route that provides excellent perspectives of the iconic Mither Tap, a prominent granite peak and site of an ancient hillfort.
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