Alex’s guidebook

Take the coastal tourist route at Dundee. This is through Arbroath and Montrose and along the Aberdeenshire coast South of Aberdeen. There is much to see along the way. Johnshaven is a very picturesque little village. There is a functioning water mill at Benholm Mill, nearby. Do visit Dunnottar Castle just South of Aberdeen near Stonehaven. Once besieged by William Wallace (as immortalised in Braveheart); It was once guardian of the crown jewels of Scotland; and was been mired in the battles between England and the Scotland over the centuries. Dunnottar has an incredible combination of good looks and historical importance - and frequently “blows away” visitors to Scotland. While you are in the area visit Stonehaven. It has a great harbour, surrounded by sociable pubs, and unusually a Victorian outdoor heated swimming pool.

aside if you are Interested in Scottish memorabilia, we trade in antiques and have some local knowledge in the field, and can suggest an activity which might appeal to a traveller looking for a unique Scottish experience. So if you have an interest in collecting antiques, or just dabbling in interesting curios, we can offer guidance an where to shop, and what you might want to see in the city. Certainly, compared to London and the English Home Counties prices up here are very attractive. Aside from Aberdeen itself, we can help you plan your onward trip. Along the way, there are a wealth of, off-the-beaten-track, diverting Scottish markets and emporiums where you can connect with really interesting locals and pick up some unique items spiced with a salty anecdote. Call in at the converted church in Cullen, George Watt’s shop in Fochabers or Steptoes near Montrose, to mention but a few. A great place to start is with the Wednesday auction at John Milnes, frequently featured in BBC’s “Flog It”. We usually attend, and you can bid on our paddle. The sale catalogue is on the web, usually from the preceding Friday, or better still attend the viewing on the Tuesday morning. In the afternoon you can visit Dunnottar Castle. The Milnes’ auction is worth it, even if you don’t buy anything, attending are a cast of characters who have stepped straight out of the pagers of Walter Scott’s Kidnapped.