Aad Braes

Downs, Moorland in Aberdeenshire

Scotland

Aad Braes

Main Street in Hatton Credit: Ralph Greig

Aad Braes, located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is a picturesque downs and moorland area that offers breathtaking landscapes. Stretching over a vast area, it is renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings.

The downs of Aad Braes are characterized by gently rolling hills covered in lush green grass, dotted with a variety of wildflowers, and interspersed with small streams and ponds. These downs provide a perfect setting for leisurely walks or picnics, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serenity of nature.

The moorland in Aad Braes is composed of heather-covered hills and vast open spaces. This rugged terrain, with its purple and golden hues, creates a striking contrast against the clear blue sky. Moorland birds, such as red grouse and golden plovers, can often be spotted darting between the heather, adding to the area's natural charm.

Aad Braes is also known for its rich biodiversity. The downs and moorland support a variety of plant and animal species, including rare orchids, mountain hares, and red deer. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the presence of species like the curlew and lapwing.

In addition to its natural wonders, Aad Braes offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Aberdeenshire countryside. On a clear day, visitors can see the distant hills and valleys that make this region of Scotland so enchanting.

Overall, Aad Braes is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether it's exploring the downs, wandering through the moorland, or simply admiring the breathtaking views, this Aberdeenshire gem offers a truly unforgettable experience.

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Aad Braes Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.420501/-1.891798 or Grid Reference NK0636. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Main Street in Hatton

Ralph Greig

St James Church, Cruden

Mrs W J Sutherland

Near Cruden Bay

A field of barley, accessed by a gateway which has not had a gate for some time. The three bits of masonry in the distance were once supports for the long-vanished railway line. Beyond it are some of the newer houses on the outskirts of the village of Cruden Bay.

Anne Burgess

Milltown

Looking across the Water of Cruden towards the farm of Milltown. The brown swathes on the fields are the harvested rape. The prominent kirk with the spire is in an adjacent square.

Anne Burgess

Bishop's Bridge

This modest bridge spanning the Water of Cruden is named after Bishop James Drummond, who first caused a bridge to be built here. It bears the date 1697, and was widened by corbel-stones over the original abutments at the instance of the Earl of Erroll in 1763. The arms of the Earl and the Bishop are on the south face of the bridge.

Anne Burgess

Cruden Bay station (remains), 1988

View westward, towards Ellon: ex-GNSR Ellon - Boddam branch, closed throughout to passengers from 31/10/32, to freight 7/11/45. Before World War Two an electric tramway used to run from the station to Cruden Bay Hotel, but the hotel and tramway, also the whole branch, were taken over by the Military in 1941.

Ben Brooksbank

Water of Cruden from Bishop's Bridge

Only a mile from the sea, the river is still very narrow. The stone bridge was funded by Bishop James Drummond, built 1659 or soon after, when he came to live in this area. In the far distance, the landmark church spire at Chapel Hill is just visible through the trees. See Link

Colin Smith

Red House Hotel, Cruden Bay

commands an excellent view over the golf links

Ken Fitlike

Hatton, Station Hotel

typical small village pub / hotel

Ken Fitlike

St Olaf's Hotel, Cruden Bay

...and another 'overlooking the golf course' Cruden Bay hostelry

Ken Fitlike

Hatton Mill

old village water mill buildings refurbished in the late 70s into a nice pub

Ken Fitlike

Hatton Kirk

typical Aberdeenshire village church.

Ken Fitlike

Road embankment work - Hatton Bends

work ongoing to re-align the A90 between Hatton and Auchiries - a series of notorious twisty bends and undulating land shape

Ken Fitlike

Bridgend major road works

a series of notorious awkward bends being re-aligned north of Hatton. This is the most complex section, with the new straight section crossing over the Water of Cruden

Ken Fitlike

Bridge over Water of Cruden

part of dismantled rail-line Cruden Bay to Ellon via Hatton

Ken Fitlike

Crossroads at Auchiries

Minor roads cross the busy A92 Peterhead to Aberdeen road. Heavy oil industry related traffic make this an arduous journey most of the time, with lorry convoys testing the motorists' patience. The bungalow MUST have double-glazing!

Ken Fitlike