Dog-friendly Hotels Aberdeenshire

This charming, 19th century (built in 1822), semi-detached cottage is peacefully situated on a quiet lane at the edge of the coastal village of St Cyrus, 30 miles south of Aberdeen with international airport. The completely natural garden provides a haven for local wildlife, birds and plants and backs onto open farmland at the rear. The holiday cottage retains many quaint features giving it a unique character and a welcoming atmosphere. The village shop, cafes and hotel are within walking distance, as are the miles of golden sands for which St Cyrus is renowned. The cliffs and dunes surrounding the beach are a National Nature Reserve where a plethora of wildlife including peregrine falcons can be spotted. Shops, pub and restaurant 5 miles.

Eagles Gate Lodge is located just 2 miles away from the busy seaside town of Banff with its beautiful beach and good selection of shops and restaurants. This picture-postcard cottage was refurbished in late 2020 without losing its original character; with a new kitchen, bathroom, carpets and paintwork throughout. Superbly set in enclosed front and back gardens, its enjoys the sun for most of the day so you can sit outside to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. The back garden looks out on the woodland and fields of Deerpark Farm, where it is common to see the deer strolling by in the early morning, and the rose-filled front garden is perfect for relaxing on a sunny afternoon with plenty of space for the kids to run around. The property sleeps up to six in three bedrooms, all with garden views. It has a bright, airy kitchen, dining room and living room with wood burner, and is ideal for dog owners with some amazing walks nearby.
Not only does Eagles Gate Lodge enjoy its own sunny microclimate, it is also set within the stunning grounds of the former Duff House estate, once owned by the Duke of Fife. Indeed, this surprisingly spacious Grade A listed cottage was once one of the lodge houses for the estate and enjoys an enviable location in the countryside, yet only a mile from Duff House itself and all the amenities of Banff and its quiet, sandy beaches.
The towns of Banff and Macduff, only a couple of miles away, sit on either side of Banff Bay where you can regularly see dolphins and even the occasional Orca whale during the summer months. Banff has a marina and Macduff a fishing harbour, and both towns have a number of pubs and excellent places to eat offering a variety of cuisines including vegan and seafood. Additionally, the nearby Deveron is a salmon river where day tickets can be purchased. It is a great base to explore the wider Aberdeenshire area, from the numerous castles and historic monuments, to fantastic outdoor activities along the beautiful noth-east coastline. Explore the Whisky Trail further inland which wends its way through dramatic scenery, or visit the city of Aberdeen, approximately 1 hour away, for retail therapy, cinemas and theatre. Beach 2 miles. Shop, pub and restaurant 2 miles.

The Annexe at Shieldaig Cottage is situated just over a mile from the picturesque village and golden sands of St Cyrus. It is attached to the owner’s house and completely self-contained with stunning views over open countryside. An entrance porch leads through to the open plan living area, and French doors open onto the pretty patio - an ideal spot for alfresco dining or relaxing with a glass of wine. Adjoining the living area is a modern well-equipped kitchen. There is a very attractively presented kingsize bedroom with colour co-ordinated soft furnishings and a shower room all on the ground floor. The first floor has a further attractive king size bedroom and a second living room with views of the countryside to one side and the sea to the other. A utility room with washing matching and clothes airer is at the side and is a great place to store outdoor clothing.
The village of St Cyrus is located on the east coast of Scotland and is famous for its Nature Reserve, a haven for nature lovers, bird watchers and dog walkers. The village offers local amenities including a village shop and post office, a coffee shop and a hotel, pub and restaurant. A perfect base to explore the coastline, hills and glens which surround The Mearns, home of Lewis Grassic Gibbon, write of A Scots Quair. The Grassic Gibbon Centre is located in nearby Arbuthnot. There is no shortage of good walks within easy reach in and around the Angus Glens, Forfar and Kirriemuir areas.
Other nearby attractions include the towns of Montrose and Stonehaven. Montrose sits on the edge of a tidal lagoon known as the Basin. Just south of the town on the A92 you will find the Basin Wildlife Centre where a resident ranger leads guided walks around the reserve. Montrose is also home to several links golf courses. Stonehaven has a beautiful harbour from where you can take boat trips to experience the rugged coastline and bird life. Beach 2¼ miles. Pub 5 miles.

Peregrine Lodge lies in a stunning location and is perfect for a last minute romantic getaway or a longer winter or summer holiday. This living space is a comfortable ‘home from home’ where you can sit back and watch the world go by from the huge floor-to-ceiling windows. This uniquely designed, straw bale built lodge provides a lovely space for two people with its cosy kingsize bed and en-suite shower room. Additionally, there is a double sofa bed in the living area to accommodate a further two people. The lodge has a wood burner, a Smart TV and Wi-Fi. There is also a further shower room.
The area has plenty to explore including a walk along St Combs Bay just 2½ miles down the road. Or take a fantastic trip over to the town of Fraserburgh to find a host of interesting attractions - marvel at the full-size lighthouse built in the middle of a 16th-century castle at Kinnaird Head Castle and The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses. This is the perfect area with an abundance of activities and sights to see, or relax and unwind in this lovely location and leave your work life far behind. Beach 2½ miles.

Willow Lodge has been freshly decorated and modernised making it a wonderful base from which to explore Macduff and the surrounding area. With three bedrooms, it is best suited to couples or families or friends groups looking for a comfortable modern home to relax in after a day exploring. It benefits from an attractive and fully enclosed landscaped garden set on multiple levels, giving plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors.
Within a 5-minute drive of the beach, this detached bungalow also has a very convenient location in Macduff and is within walking distance of many local attractions. MacDuff enjoys stunning sea views and wonderful sunsets and the architecture reflects its maritime heritage. A restaurant serving fresh local dishes is only a short walk away. The Macduff Aquarium will delights guests of all ages, with a wonderful selection of creatures from the sea and beyond. Learn about the history of the area at the beautiful Duff House, enjoy viewing the art work or strolling through the grounds. The Macduff Distillery is also a great place to visit and situated about 1 mile from Willow Lodge.
The north-east coast of Scotland is a hidden gem, with its atmospheric fishing villages dotted along the coastline, making it a wonderful place for easy exploration. Travel along the beautiful coastline offering stunning cliff top views, or head west towards Portsoy Harbour, with the chance to discover the remains of Boyne Castle, or watch out for some dolphins at Moray Firth. Other popular attractions in the area include Fyvie Castle, a magnificent structure, housing antiques and heritage-rich exhibits, and Pitmedden Garden & Museum of Farming Life. This area is also home to some wonderful beaches, with many easily reachable. There really is something for everyone in this fascinating region of Scotland.
This fantastic area of Scotland is a haven for golfers with many courses near by, including Royal Tarlair, Duff House and Turriff. Walkers and cyclists will also enjoy the many walks available. Why not try a walk along the stunning coast, exploring the small bays and beaches along the way? Take in views of the Moray Firth and try a spot of dolphin watching. Fishing in the River Deveron is also a popular pastime here. Beach 1½ miles. Shop 200 yards, pub and restaurant 700 yards.