Macduff

The fishing village lies on the northern Banffshire coast in Eastern Scotland. A long barrow southeast of MacDuff suggests Neolithic Celtic people established the first settlement here. Originally called Doune, the hamlet was a farming and fishing community for numerous centuries. William Duff purchased the property in 1733. Upon William’s death, his son James acquired Doune and modernized the harbour in 1760. In 1783, Duff desired to rename the community. The town’s residents implored him to combine the existing name with his family name, but Duff declined.

James renamed the community MacDuff. Duff also acquired barony burgh status for the community. At this time, Duff extended the harbour, and expansions continued through the 1800s. James appointed William Rose as the first Provost of MacDuff. The fishing vessels mainly caught herring. In later years, herring depletion required the day’s catch include salmon, trout and shellfish. The early boats were comprised of wood.

A shipbuilding industry also developed in MacDuff. Rope and sail manufacturing followed. Manure factories, sawmills and other trades emerged. A bridge across the Deveron River joins MacDuff with neighboring Branff.

Activities and Attractions

The coastal location offers many water based activities. Charter cruises offer visitors the chance to enjoy the view from open waters. See the coastline from a different perspective and journey to areas where dolphins, porpoises and grey seals frequent. Anglers indulge in deep sea fishing excursions or guests may fish from the shore by the lighthouse, as many locals do. Explore the beach areas and find rock pools filled with assorted marine life.

There are no shortage of biking and walking paths, as the Speyside Way Trail passes through MacDuff. Paths leading from the shore to the Grampian Mountains cover over 83 miles (135 km) of scenic countryside.

Speyside Way Trails vary from easy to difficult. Scale Doune Hill and visit the Temple of Venus, the dome covered round rotunda standing on the hilltop. The vantage point offers picturesque views overlooking MacDuff, Banff and the coast.

As MacDuff’s heritage evolves around the sea, the Banffshire Marine Heritage Association Museum explains the history of fishing and shipbuilding. The facility contains maritime artefacts and models that explore the evolution of both trades.

Visitors get a glimpse of local plant and marine life at the MacDuff Marine Aquarium. From the shallow pools on the beaches to the sides of the rocky cliffs, life abounds. Guests learn about plant and animal life that must survive these often harsh environments. Interactive exhibits include adjustable underwater cameras, microscopic environments and touch pools, which allow visitors of all ages to experience a personalized view of various marine species.

See the life forms that thrive in coastal and deep sea conditions. After exploring the exhibits on the outer walls, venture to the centre of the facility and gaze in awe at the kelp tank. Measuring over 16 feet (5 metres) deep, over 32 feet (10 metres) in width and containing over 105,000 gallons (400,000 litres) of sea water, this tank is the largest of its kind in the country.

Places To Stay and Dining

MacDuff hotels include Victorian villas situated on the hills overlooking the community and coast. Some facility bars offer dart games, pool tables and slot machines for guest entertainment. Often times, room rates include a hearty traditional Scottish breakfast.

The Knowles Hotel restaurant serves a fine selection of lunch and dinner meals featuring fish or meat. Have baked haddock with a cheese and mustard glaze. Try lamb, seasoned with coriander and paprika and served on a bed of rice.

Accommodation in Macduff

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