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So, you’re thinking about tackling the North East 250 (NE250)? Maybe you’re after a scenic Scottish road trip, or you’re looking for a quieter alternative to the North Coast 500 (NC500), or maybe you just can’t decide between the two. Whatever the reason, this guide will give you everything you need to confidently drive one of Scotland’s best road trips.
In the last couple of years, I’ve driven both the NE250 and NC500, and have full guides to each, so whichever route you choose, you’ll be fully prepared for an unforgettable adventure through Scotland.
In this guide, I’ll cover the full NE250 route, including key stops, hidden gems, and must-see sights along the way. You’ll discover castles, distilleries, cute villages, and stunning coastal highlights, so you can make the most of every mile on this incredible journey. For me, the combination of scenic drives and culinary experiences is part of what makes the NE250 so special. Whether it’s sipping a perfectly aged whisky or enjoying seafood with a view, this route proves that Scotland’s northeast is a treat for every sense.
I’ll also share tips on which direction to drive, the best time of year to go, and how many days you need to complete the route. By the end of this post, you won’t just understand the NE250 — you’ll have a ready-to-go plan for a truly memorable Scottish road trip. Let’s go!
What Is the North East 250?
The North East 250 (NE250) is a 250-mile circular road trip around Aberdeenshire in northeast Scotland. Launched in 2017 as a quieter alternative to the famous North Coast 500, it combines dramatic coastline, whisky distilleries, ancient castles, mountain passes, and charming villages. Recognised by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s top 500 travel experiences, the NE250 is often called “Scotland’s best-kept secret“.
North East 250 Route Map
I’ve put together this North East 250 Route Map. The main official route is marked in blue, while optional detours are shown in orange — like a stop at Dunnottar Castle, which is an absolute must if you’re in the area. As you can see, the route hugs the North and East coasts before heading inland toward Cairngorms National Park.
You don’t have to stick rigidly to this route. That’s the beauty of the NE250 — it’s your road trip, so feel free to explore wherever you like. Fancy a detour into the Cairngorms or a quick trip up to Inverness? Go for it, feel free to make the journey your own!
Why Choose the North East 250 Over the NC500?
Since the North Coast 500 launched in 2015, it has become incredibly popular, with around 30,000 people completing the route each year. The single-track roads can get busy, especially in summer, making the drive feel a bit stressful or rushed at times.
Whereas the North East 250, which launched just two years later, hasn’t seen the same crowds as the NC500, making it a quieter, less crowded, and more relaxed Scottish road trip. I visited in April, and we often had many of the sights along the route entirely to ourselves — it was a wonderfully peaceful way to explore Scotland’s northeast.
The NE250 also offers a different kind of adventure compared to the NC500. While the NC500 is all about rugged natural landscapes and dramatic mountains — particularly on the west coast — the NE250 offers a road trip packed with well-preserved castles, smooth modern roads, and world-class whisky distilleries. And if that’s not enough, the NE250 also boasts 165 miles of stunning coastline, dotted with charming fishing villages, beautiful beaches, and abundant wildlife.
I’ve personally driven both the NC500 and the NE250, and I wouldn’t say I have a favourite — they each offer a very different kind of adventure. Choosing between them really comes down to what kind of experience you’re after: NC500 for rugged natural landscapes and dramatic scenery, or NE250 for castles, culture, and a quieter, less crowded journey.
Fun fact: Aberdeenshire is known as “castle country”, boasting over 300 castles, ruins, and stately homes — more per acre than anywhere else in the UK.
Best Time of Year to Drive the NE250
I completed the NE250 in April, and I loved it — the route was really quiet, with hardly any crowds. The weather was still a little chilly, but that didn’t impact the experience. We just had to make sure we packed the essentials: a warm coat, hat, gloves, and scarf (yes, it really was that cold!).
May, September, and October are also great months to consider doing the NE250, as they largely fall outside the Scottish school holidays, meaning smaller crowds and often cheaper accommodation.
As expected, summer is the busiest time on the NE250, with schools on holiday and the weather usually at its best. While this is ideal for sightseeing, the roads and attractions do tend to be busier, and accommodation tends to be more expensive and books up more in advance.
I’d generally avoid the winter months from November through to March. Many attractions and businesses have limited opening hours or are closed entirely, and the weather can be harsh, with snow, ice, and shorter daylight hours making driving trickier.
Ultimately, the best time to drive the NE250 — whether spring, summer, or autumn — depends on what you value more: quieter roads and fewer crowds or warmer weather and long summer days. Either way, the route is absolutely breathtaking all year round.
How Many Days Do You Need for the North East 250?
I would personally recommend 4–5 days to complete the NE250 by car. We did it in 3 days, and the last day felt rushed, trying to see everything. Honestly, 3 days isn’t enough to fully enjoy all the sights along the route.
With hundreds of castles, distilleries, and quaint towns, there’s so much to see that you don’t want to feel pressed for time. If you only have 3 days or less, I’d recommend focusing on just a section of the NE250 — for example, Aberdeen to Braemar for castles and distilleries, or Aberdeen to Fraserburgh for coastal scenery. This way, you can take your time sightseeing instead of rushing to complete the full route.
If you have 6 days or more, you can explore some fantastic extras just off the NE250, like Aberdeen city, Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven, the Cairngorms National Park around Aviemore, or even Inverness, depending on how much time you have.
Where to Start the North East 250 Road Trip?
Most people begin at Aberdeen Airport (or Dyce), but you could just as easily start in Aberdeen city, Elgin, Fraserburgh, or even Braemar in the Cairngorms National Park. Wherever you begin, you’ll end up back in the same place, as it’s a loop, making the route very flexible.
Aberdeen is a popular choice for a reason. As Scotland’s third-largest city, it sits on the northeast coast and has excellent transport links, including its own airport and bus and train connections to major cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh. It’s a convenient and well-connected starting point for your NE250 adventure.
Driving the North East 250 Route: Clockwise or Anti-Clockwise?
It’s totally up to you! The NE250 is a circular loop, so whichever direction you choose, you’ll end up back where you started.
Going clockwise from Aberdeen Airport (or Dyce) takes you toward Braemar first, then up to Buckie, along to Fraserburgh, and back down to Aberdeen. This is the route I took, and it was fantastic — we explored all the castles first and finished with the coastline and fishing villages. Alternatively, you can go anti-clockwise, starting with the coast before heading inland.
Both directions offer stunning scenery, charming villages, and plenty of stops for castles, distilleries, and wildlife. If you want to prioritise castles first, go clockwise; if you prefer to start with the coast, choose anti-clockwise. Still undecided? Book your accommodation first — your route can easily follow based on availability.
Top Attractions on the North East 250
I think the most surprising thing about the North East 250 is just how varied the sights are. From stunning coastline, lighthouses, and dramatic rock formations to some truly quirky attractions — like Scotland’s very own pyramid (yes, you read that correctly!) — this drive is full of surprises.
Honestly, if you tried to see everything along the route, it could take weeks or even months. That’s why I’ve rounded up the most impressive stops, so you can make the most of your time on this incredible Scottish road trip.
Coastal Highlights of the NE250
With 165 miles of coastline to explore, you’ll come across some gorgeous white-sand beaches like Balmedie and Cullen. I’m not saying you’ll be sunbathing — this is Scotland, after all — but one of my favourite traditions is grabbing a chippy (fish and chips), parking up by the beach, and eating it while watching the waves roll in. It’s a cheap, cosy, and chill night out.
Keep your eyes peeled on the coastline too: you might just spot some seals, seabirds, or even dolphins off the Aberdeenshire coast if you’re lucky. I’d highly recommend packing a pair of binoculars just in case!
Beyond the beaches, the coast has plenty of show-stoppers, including Bow Fiddle Rock — an incredible sea arch — and Rattray Head Lighthouse, which looks particularly dramatic on a stormy day. Just a heads up, the road to Rattray Head Lighthouse was the worst one of the whole NE250 for me. So many potholes, my poor Fiat!
If you’re short on time, this North East Coastal Trail tour takes you up the east coast to Bow Fiddle Rock and Slains Castle.
Towns of the NE250
Along the NE250, you’ll pass through charming towns like Ballater and Braemar (home of the world-famous Highland Games). Many of these towns are full of character, with independent cafés and shops that make them worth a stop.
You’ll also find some fascinating museums in these towns. The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses in Fraserburgh showcases the country’s lighthouse history and houses the largest collection of lenses in Scotland, while the Alford Heritage Museum showcases an impressive display of farming artefacts, telling the story of rural life in northeast Scotland. Other notable museums to visit are Peterhead Prison Museum and the Grampian Transport Museum.
Don’t miss Crathie Kirk, a historic church with royal connections, and Pennan, a tiny fishing village with an iconic red telephone box on the harbour. If you’re short on time, this coastal villages of Aberdeenshire tour will take you to all the must-see spots.
Castles and Historic Sites on the NE250
I tried to see as many castles as possible along the NE250, but honestly, that’s a tall order — there are just so many scattered across the route. Some are worth seeing, while others I’d happily skip. The one that stole the show for sheer drama was Dunnottar Castle, clinging to a cliff edge above the North Sea. Technically, it’s not on the official NE250, so I’ll circle back to it later. In the meantime, here are the castles I think are truly worth pulling over for:
- Craigievar Castle – A pink fairytale castle, it’s quite unassuming compared to other grander castles on the route, but that’s what makes it lovely.
- Ballindalloch Castle – Sitting on the banks of the River Avon, with nearly 500 years of history and gorgeous gardens, it’s often referred to as the Pearl of the North.
- Balmoral Castle – The Royal Family’s Scottish retreat. When I visited, you couldn’t step inside, but apparently, tours are now on offer… for a royal price tag. Just a short walk from the castle, you’ll find the Balmoral pyramid — an unexpected and slightly surreal sight in the middle of Royal Deeside. It’s definitely not to be missed and easily one of the quirkiest landmarks on the route (and Scotland!).
- Castle Fraser – My personal favourite on the route. Genuinely really impressive!
- Drum Castle – One of the three oldest surviving tower houses in Scotland, which has stood virtually untouched for 700–800 years.
- House of Dun or Duff House – Both designed by William Adam, both grand Georgian mansions that are pretty spectacular.
- Slains Castle – A crumbling ruin clinging to the cliffs above the North Sea, it’s said to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
I also dropped by Crathes Castle, Corgarff Castle, and Fyvie Castle. To be honest, I found them a little underwhelming. And Fyvie Castle was just downright eerie and not as well-maintained as others nearby. Personally, I’d give them a miss.
Whisky Distilleries and Food Experiences on the NE250
The North East 250 isn’t just about landscapes and castles — it’s a journey for the taste buds too. Whisky lovers will be in heaven, with Speyside and Aberdeenshire distilleries dotted all the way along the route. You’ll be spoiled for choice, with famous names like Glenfiddich, Aberlour, Macallan, Balvenie, and Glen Garioch all within reach. Many offer guided tours where you can watch the whisky-making process and, of course, enjoy a tasting at the end.
Food along the route is just as memorable. Being on the coast means there’s an abundance of freshly caught North Sea fish. A stop in the town of Cullen is a must — famous not just for its charming harbour, but also for the world-renowned Cullen Skink, a rich smoked haddock soup. Aberdeenshire is also home to Angus beef, so make sure to enjoy a steak one night. And of course, no Scottish food journey is complete without sampling the classics — haggis, or even a deep-fried Mars bar. The NE250 is the perfect time to give them a try!
Pressed for time, enjoy this one-day Speyside Whisky Trail tour from Aberdeen – it’s the best way to experience the best Scottish drams!
Wildlife and Outdoor Activities on the NE250
With half the route along the coast and the other half inland near the Cairngorms and Deeside, you’ll have the chance to spot a wide variety of wildlife — from dolphins and minke whales in the North Sea to red deer grazing in the fields. That being said, hopefully you’ll have better luck than I did, because on my NE250 adventure, I didn’t see anything!
The variety of landscapes along the route makes it perfect for all kinds of outdoor adventures. With nature on your doorstep, you can ski at Glenshee, explore and hike in the Cairngorms, try water sports around Aberdeen or Stonehaven, or tee off at golf courses in Cullen or Fraserburgh.
Not-to-Miss Stops Near the NE250
Depending on your itinerary, you might have time for a short — or even longer — detour off the route. While the NE250 itself is packed with highlights, there are plenty of hidden gems nearby that are well worth a visit. Here are just a few:
- Dunnottar Castle – Whether you have little time or a lot of time, I’d highly recommend venturing off the route to see one of Scotland’s most spectacular castles.
- Aberdeen City – To do Aberdeen justice, you could easily spend a couple of days here. If you’re just passing through, make sure to stop by the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Aberdeen Beach, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum.
- Elgin – If you’re stopping off in this historic town, don’t miss Elgin Cathedral.
- Aviemore – The perfect spot to book a lodge for an overnight stay (or two!) and cosy up by a log fire.
Accommodation on the North East 250
I’ve always found that the right accommodation can really elevate a trip. After a day of sightseeing and enjoying great food, there’s nothing better than knowing you’ve got a comfortable place to rest at night — trips like that just feel perfect!
For your North East 250 accommodation, getting it right is so important, especially after the amount of time you’ll spend driving. Luckily, the route has options to suit every taste and budget, from cosy B&Bs to luxury castles, boutique hotels, and coastal inns.
Of course, I couldn’t possibly list them all here — the choices are endless. Instead, here are a few of my personal favourites, covering different parts of the route as you head clockwise from Aberdeen.
- Maryculter House – Nestled on the banks of the River Dee, not far from Aberdeen. Picture yourself outside with a drink, knowing a few days of road-tripping lie ahead (or behind you!).
- The Boat Inn – The cosiest little hotel, perfect for a restful night and a post-sightseeing drink by the wood burner.
- Kildrummy Inn – Jaw-droppingly stunning, tastefully decorated, yet still warm and inviting. Honestly, I’d happily do the NE250 again just to stay here.
- Hotel 1881 of Speyside – Stylish, comfortable, and with its own restaurant — meaning once you park up, your evening is sorted.
- Seafront Cottages – I’m a huge fan of glamping pods, and this one does not disappoint. It’s a glamping pod with a view! Right by the sea, you can drift off to sleep listening to the gentle lapping of the waves.
- Udny Arms Hotel – Well-located with beautiful views and comfy beds — simple, welcoming, and reliable.
Top tip: Book your accommodation in advance, especially during the busy summer months, as it can book up quite quickly.
Best Vehicles for the North East 250 (Car, Campervan, Motorbike)
Honestly, the NE250 is pretty flexible when it comes to vehicles — a car, campervan, or motorbike will all do the job. The roads are mostly in great condition, and there aren’t many single-track sections to worry about.
You could try doing the route by bus, but I wouldn’t recommend it. They tend to take ages compared to driving yourself. They’re not always reliable, and bus stops aren’t exactly conveniently placed near all the attractions. And just so you know, travelling the NE250 by train isn’t really an option.
Motorhome and Campervan Tips for the NE250
Exploring the North East 250 by motorhome or campervan is a fantastic way to see the route — and it can save you a fortune on accommodation. When I drove the NE250, I was really impressed with the quality of the roads, so it’s far less stressful than the North Coast 500. That being said, a few simple tips can still make the journey go even smoother:
- Plan Your Stops in Advance – There aren’t loads of campsites along the route, and the really scenic ones get snapped up fast, especially in summer. Book ahead, and you could wake up to a view that makes your morning coffee even better. Here are a few of the best ones that are well worth reserving.
- Silverbank Club Campsite – Between Aberdeen and Braemar.
- Tarland by Deeside Camping and Caravanning Club Site – Between Aberdeen and Braemar.
- Speyside by Craigellachie Camping and Caravanning Club Site – Between Braemar and Buckie.
- Huntly Castle Caravan Park – Between Braemar and Buckie.
- Portsoy Links Caravan Park – Between Buckie and Fraserburgh.
- Banff Links Caravan Park – Between Buckie and Fraserburgh.
- Marina Bay Holiday Park, Peterhead – Between Fraserburgh and Aberdeen.
- Overnight Parking – Scotland is generally campervan-friendly, with many small towns and scenic spots having official laybys or overnight stops for campervans. However, that being said, some areas have “no overnight parking” signs, so always check before you park up for the night.
- Waste Management – Take all your rubbish with you and leave the area as you found it. Make sure you know where to empty your grey/black water and refill fresh water. Campsites usually have these facilities, but planning your stops helps avoid last-minute stress.
- Enjoy the Flexibility – One of the best things about travelling by motorhome is the freedom to linger where you like. Stop for sunrise at a beach, or enjoy a late afternoon in a quiet village — the NE250 is perfect for this kind of flexible travel.
Driving Advice and Car Hire for the NE250
Driving the North East 250 is pretty straightforward compared to the more rugged NC500, but it’s still worth being prepared. Most of the NE250 follows well-maintained, modern roads, so you don’t need a 4×4 — I actually drove it in my little Fiat 500, and it was totally fine! Some stretches can be narrower, so take your time, use passing places when needed, and always be courteous to other drivers.
If you’re visiting from abroad or don’t have your own car, Aberdeen is the best place to arrange car hire. The airport and city both have plenty of rental companies, and booking in advance usually saves money, especially in summer. I recommend using comparison sites like DiscoverCars or AutoEurope to find the best deal — they let you check prices, car types, and reviews all in one place.
A small or mid-sized car is usually perfect for the NE250, but if you’d like extra space or comfort, you might prefer a bigger car. Whatever you choose, the real joy of this Scottish road trip is taking it slow and soaking up the scenery.
Top Driving Tips for the NE250
- Drive on the left! – If you take away only one thing from this blog, make it this. Keep to the left-hand side at all times, even if your instincts say otherwise.
- Know the booze rules – Scotland has a very low alcohol limit for drivers. Even a single drink could put you over the edge, so save the whisky tasting for after you’ve parked for the night… or get someone sober to take the wheel.
- Watch your speed – Some roads, especially in the countryside, aren’t made for driving at high speeds. Stick to the limits, take it easy, and soak up the scenery instead.
- Be wary of animals on the road – Pheasants are common, and you might also meet cows, sheep, or even deer on the road. Slow down, be patient, and let them cross safely. Keep an eye out near wooded areas — that’s where deer like to appear most!
- Download Google Maps offline – Some of the more remote stretches have patchy signal. I always recommend downloading the route offline, so you can navigate confidently even when the connection drops.
North East 250 Suggested Itineraries (4, 5, and 7 Days)
Your North East 250 itinerary will depend on how many days you have and whether you decide to drive the route clockwise or anti-clockwise. Below, I’ve shared suggested itineraries for a 4-day, 5-day, and 7-day NE250 road trip to help you make the most of your adventure. These follow the clockwise direction, but you can easily flip them to go anti-clockwise if that suits your plans better.
4-Day NE250 Itinerary
- Day 1 – Aberdeen Airport (or Dyce) to Braemar
- Day 2 – Braemar to Buckie
- Day 3 – Buckie to Fraserburgh
- Day 4 – Fraserburgh to Aberdeen Airport (or Dyce)
5-Day NE250 Itinerary
- Day 1 – Aberdeen Airport (or Dyce) to Banchory
- Day 2 – Banchory to Braemar
- Day 3 – Braemar to Buckie
- Day 4 – Buckie to Fraserburgh
- Day 5 – Fraserburgh to Aberdeen Airport (or Dyce)
With a 5-day NE250 itinerary, you’ll have time to add in extra stops like Aberdeen City, Dunnottar Castle, or Elgin.
7-Day NE250 Itinerary
- Day 1 – Aberdeen Airport (or Dyce) to Banchory
- Day 2 – Banchory to Braemar
- Day 3 – Braemar to Glenlivet
- Day 4 – Glenlivet to Elgin
- Day 5 – Elgin to Fraserburgh
- Day 6 – Fraserburgh to Peterhead
- Day 7 – Peterhead to Aberdeen Airport (or Dyce)
With a 7-day NE250 itinerary, you’ll have plenty of time to include extra stops such as Aberdeen City, Dunnottar Castle, Aviemore, or Elgin.
Packing Tips for a North East 250 Road Trip
One thing you’ll quickly learn in Scotland is that the weather is unpredictable. It’s not unusual to experience all four seasons in a single day, so the key to packing for the North East 250 is layers and versatility.
Here’s what to expect by season:
- Spring (March–May): Temperatures range from 9–15°C (48-59°F). Expect sunshine, rain, and clouds — sometimes all in the same afternoon. Pack a jumper and a light waterproof jacket.
- Summer (June–August): Highs usually sit around 17-19°C (63-67°F), but occasional warm days can hit 20°C+. Bring layers, a short-sleeved t-shirt, sunscreen, and a warmer jacket for evenings.
- Autumn (September–November): Daytime temperatures are between 9–16°C (48-61°F). Bring jumpers, long sleeves, and a comfy jacket.
- Winter (December–February): Expect 0–7°C (32-45°F), with a high chance of ice and snow. Pack thermals, thick layers, a heavy coat, a hat, gloves, and a scarf.
North East 250 Packing Checklist – Must-Haves
No matter the season, make sure to pack items that will keep you comfortable when spending plenty of time outdoors, exploring castles, coastline, and distilleries along the NE250. Here’s a handy checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared:
Clothing for the NE250:
- Layers: jumpers, long sleeves, t-shirts (thermals in winter)
- Waterproof jacket or coat
- Comfortable trousers, leggings, or jeans
- For summer: Shorts or light clothes for occasional warm days.
- For early spring, late autumn, and winter: Warm coat, hat, gloves, scarf, and thermals.
Footwear for the NE250:
- Comfortable hiking boots or trainers
Accessories for the NE250:
- Sunglasses
- Small backpack
- Reusable water bottle (FYI: the water from the tap is drinkable in Scotland)
- For summer: Bring sunscreen and midge spray
Final Thoughts: Is the North East 250 Worth It?
If you’ve been wondering whether the North East 250 is worth the time, my answer is a resounding yes. While it may not have the fame of the NC500, this 250-mile circular route through Aberdeenshire offers equally stunning scenery, fewer crowds, and plenty of hidden gems.
From dramatic cliffs and golden beaches to castles steeped in history, charming fishing villages, and world-class whisky distilleries, the NE250 has something for every type of traveller.
For me, the magic of the NE250 isn’t just the sights — it’s the pace. You can take your time, stop where you like, linger over a café lunch or a whisky tasting, and truly soak in Scotland’s northeast.
So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover why the North East 250 is increasingly being called Scotland’s best-kept secret.
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Kirsty
