Banff

Page 1 of 3

Banff

Banff is the old county town and a Royal Burgh, having received its charter from Robert the Bruce in 1324. Its history stretches backs to the 12th century when it was one of the important Hanseatic trading towns. Banff harbour is now used as a recreational harbour, leaving its more industrial neighbour Macduff as the main commercial port along this stretch of the Moray Firth coast.

Banff is within easy reach of the magnificent Coastal Trail with its footpath, wildlife-watching opportunities and other attractions.

A feature of the town is its Georgian architecture and Banff has been designated an Outstanding Conservation Area. Duff House, in the Deveron valley, is an impressive Georgian mansion and is open to visitors as a country house gallery with fine paintings and artefacts drawn from the National Galleries of Scotland and private lenders.

Other attractions include the Duff House Royal Golf Club parkland course, caravan and camp site, indoor swimming pool, shops and local history museum. Regular farmers' markets are also held in Banff town centre.

The name Banff is thought to come from Scottish Gaelic meaning ‘Young Pig' or from a stream called ‘Pigs Burn'. The town started off as a port in the 10th century and became a royal centre at the end of the 12th century. The town was created a royal burgh in 1372.

It has many 17th and 18th century buildings castle and town houses built and once owned by local lairds, prosperous tradesmen and merchants. Duff House mansion is open to visitors and houses many wonderful works of art owned by the nationl galleries, set in grounds with fantastic woodland walks to the most amazing scenic spot the 'Bridge of Alvah'.Fantastic beach, free museum in the high street, nice harbour with boat trips along the Moray Firth.

<< Start < Prev 1 2 3 Next > End >>