Aberdeenshire Doors Open Day Arrives on Deeside

Residents and visitors have a chance to discover some of Deeside’s hidden heritage as Aberdeenshire Doors Open Days arrive in the area.

Have you ever wondered what Ballogie House looks like inside, or wanted to see behind the scenes at Banchory Fire Station?

On Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September, more than 25 fascinating buildings from Crathes to Braemar will welcome visitors through their doors for free to discover more about the stories behind these wonderful places: from restored train stations to castles, from churches to a traditional highland 'fermtoun'.

Doors Open Day is a national event run by the Scottish Civic Trust with the council’s Economic Development service coordinating it in Aberdeenshire. It gives access to hundreds of fascinating buildings across Scotland, including some normally closed to the public.

Chairman of Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee, Cllr David Aitchison, said:

“This month Aberdeenshire residents have the chance to explore some of the architecture, places and spaces right on their doorsteps.

“Building on the success of last year’s event in Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire’s Doors Open Days 2015 promises to be an extremely exciting event, an opportunity for you to see inside venues, some which open up once a year, some just once in a lifetime.”

“I hope everyone interested can visit a few of the venues in these majestic surroundings and I’m sure everyone taking part will enjoy themselves.”

Vice-chairman of the committee, Cllr Stephen Smith, said:

“A detailed leaflet has been produced for visitors with interesting historical facts about the buildings, maps highlighting their locations and other useful information such as parking details.

“Some buildings are taking part all weekend and others for one day only, so please check the leaflet, which is available on the council’s website, or visit the Facebook page dedicated to Aberdeenshire’s Doors Open Days.

“I would like to thank everyone taking part in the event – whether you’re the owner of one of these wonderful buildings or whether you’re a member of your local community providing refreshments to visitiors over the weekend.”

An Information Hub will operate from the Victory Hall in Aboyne where you’ll be able to find out more about what to see and do over the Doors Open Days weekend.

You can get detailed directions to venues and see a variety of heritage-related displays in the hall including Visit Royal Deeside, North East Scotland Preservation Trust, the council’s Built Heritage and Archaeology teams, and many more.

A full list of venues taking part in the event and up to date information including details of opening times, any changes to the programme, updates, amendments and additions can be found on the national website, Aberdeenshire Council’s website and on the dedicated Facebook page

Some venues are only open on the Saturday or Sunday, so please check the leaflet or online listings for further details.