Deeside Way 2: Drumoak to Banchory

Summary

The second stage of the Deeside Way follows the line of the old railway from Drumoak to Banchory. The route runs through the trees parallel to the busy A93 to Crathes, with the possibility of a cafe stop at Milton of Crathes. The final stretch to Banchory has improving views across the stately River Dee.

Grade

Bog Factor

Rating

Terrain

Easy walking on mostly level cyclepath.

Getting there

Start

A93 in Drumoak; the nearest parking is by the war memorial.

Public Transport

Regular bus service along the A93 serves both Drumoak and Banchory.

Start Grid Ref

NO528985

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 11km / 6.75 miles
Time: 2.5 - 3.5 hours
Ascent: 60m (Profile)

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Walk Description

User reports (1)

Stage 1

The stage begins by following the pavement on the south side of the A93 west out of Drumoak; there are several bus stops and if needed the nearest car parking is by the war memorial. Just after the 'Park' and 40mph speed limit sign the Deeside Way turns left through a gap in a stone wall and then continues through the trees parallel to the road - traffic free, but still noisy. The route rises to cross a bridge over the lane to Home Farm - keep ahead.

Stage 2

Keep ahead when the cycle path crosses another two tarmac lanes, continuing to be shaded by beautiful deciduous trees. Eventually the route emerges on a track; keep ahead onto this, following it round a bend. As it emerges onto the main road, turn left beside the big stone gatepost to continue on a cycle path once more.

Stage 3

Keep ahead again when a track runs across the route, passing metal chicane barriers. There's a bench on the next section, as the cycle path leads through more open fields. As Crathes is reached the path turns right and emerges on the A93. Turn left along the pavement, then take the next left turn (signed for Stonehaven). After 250m, before a modern housing estate on the right, turn right - signed for the Deeside Way.

Stage 4

The track passes to the right of a cottage, emerges on the broad old railway trackbed, passes through a gate and then takes the main left fork at a bench, descending slightly. After a gate the route is joined by another track coming in from your left - keep ahead. When the track swings right through an informal parking area (near an underpass on the road) keep ahead on a path, crossing an old stone bridge. Keep ahead again on the track beyond.

Stage 5

Soon there are signs pointing to Milton of Crathie off to the left - this complex of old stone cottages is now a variety of businesses including a cafe and restaurant. If not visiting, keep ahead, emerging at and passing through the car park. Continue on the Deeside Way track beyond, passing the old station building. The next section of old railway track on your right has been restored by the Royal Deeside Railway Preservation Society who have reinstated a section of the line as a heritage project. Keep ahead parallel to this; there are views over the River Dee to your left.

Stage 6

Keep straight ahead when the route crosses a track (with a level crossing on your right). The next section comes very close to the River Dee and offers beautiful views - including from a well-placed seat. Beyond here, the Deeside Way continues along the cyclepath, or there are informal paths closer to the river on your left - all routes soon rejoin. The route passes a sawmill and then a water treament works - both on your right - emerging at a signposted junction. Bear left here, then take the right fork for the official route (or the left one for the Platties path which keeps right by the river).

Stage 7

Beyond a high bank the routes rejoin again. The cyclepath now leads alongside a parking area for a residential estate. Keep to the left of the houses, curving right when the path almost emerges at a road, then turning left before the steps to instead head under a bridge. The path now continues along the left edge of parkland, before joining a tree-lined lane (with parking) on your left side. Continue along this lane to reach the heart of Banchory. The route emerges at a t-junction on Dee Street - the next stage of the Deeside Way is a left turn, whereas the town centre is off to your right.

Next stage: Banchory to Aboyne

Route Profile

Where to stay

Aberdeenshire hostels

Glamping and Camping

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