Howe of Alford

Downs, Moorland in Aberdeenshire

Scotland

Howe of Alford

Watchmakers Lane, Alford The building is 55-57 Main Street, Alford which has its own Aberdeenshire Historic Environment Record listing, but with no detail other than it appears on the OS second edition map! It has a neatly corbelled corner door and (?) early 20th century wooden shop fascia. — Watchmakers Lane, Alford Credit: Alan Murray-Rust

Howe of Alford is a picturesque region located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Situated on the eastern edge of the Grampian Mountains, it is known for its breathtaking downs and moorland landscapes. Covering an area of approximately 40 square miles, Howe of Alford is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The downs of Howe of Alford are characterized by rolling hills and vast open spaces. These grassy expanses are perfect for walking, picnicking, and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The downs are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including heather, wildflowers, and numerous bird species.

Moorland is another prominent feature of Howe of Alford, with its rugged terrain and expansive peat bogs. The moorland is a unique ecosystem, home to a diverse range of plants, such as sphagnum moss and cotton grass. It also provides a habitat for various wildlife, including red deer, mountain hares, and birds of prey.

In addition to its natural beauty, Howe of Alford boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage. The area is dotted with ancient sites, including standing stones, stone circles, and burial cairns, which offer a glimpse into the region's past. The Alford Valley Railway, a preserved steam railway, is a popular attraction for visitors, offering a nostalgic journey through the area's history.

Overall, Howe of Alford in Aberdeenshire is a captivating destination that combines stunning natural landscapes with a fascinating history. Whether exploring the downs, traversing the moorland, or delving into the area's past, visitors are sure to be enchanted by the beauty and charm of this remarkable region.

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Howe of Alford Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.235953/-2.6960928 or Grid Reference NJ5816. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Watchmakers Lane, Alford

The building is 55-57 Main Street, Alford which has its own Aberdeenshire Historic Environment Record listing, but with no detail other than it appears on the OS second edition map! It has a neatly corbelled corner door and (?) early 20th century wooden shop fascia.

Alan Murray-Rust

Main Street, Alford

Looking east at Watchmakers Lane.

Alan Murray-Rust

Cruden Bay Hotel Tramcar, Grampian Transport Museum

Finely restored from its condition as a summerhouse, which it had been since it ceased service in 1941. Unusually, but perhaps unsurprisingly, it was built by the railway company itself, rather than a specialist tramcar builder. Link

Alan Murray-Rust

Cruden Bay Hotel Tramcar, Grampian Transport Museum

Finely restored from its condition as a summerhouse, which it had been since it ceased service in 1941. Link

Alan Murray-Rust

Bear on a box, Grampian Transport Museum

A number of toy animals are to be found around the museum for children to discover as part of a trail.

Alan Murray-Rust

Donside Road, Alford

The A944 heading towards the A97 (for Huntly).

Alan Murray-Rust

And I shall go into the hare (the shapeshifter)

Ralph Greig

Haughton House

Ralph Greig

Alford Dry Ski Slope

The dry ski slope near Alford Academy.

Scott Cormie

Grazing horse

Horse grazing in a field at Greystone, west of Alford.

Scott Cormie

Distant view to Kinstair

Looking north-east to Kinstair in the distance across a field of bales, with Bennachie on the horizon.

Scott Cormie

Field of bales

Looking north-east across a field of bales from the roadside at Little Endovie, with Bennachie in the distance.

Scott Cormie

A944 east of Alford

The A944 heading west to Alford in the distance.

Scott Cormie

Aberdeen Angus

Aberdeen Angus sculpture by David Annand at the eastern entrance to Alford on the A944.

Scott Cormie

Controlled chaos at the 2011 Alford motorbike convention

I'm tickled by the sponsors who are inscribed on the saddle - "The Bike Insurer!" This picture shows John Pearson of the Squib Freestyle MX Team in action at Alford.

Des Colhoun