Methlick Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Methlick, Scotland. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, don’t miss a chance to visit a hidden gem in Aberdeenshire - Methlick. This small village might surprise you with its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural attractions, and friendly locals. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together the ultimate travel guide to Methlick, Scotland.

Introduction to Methlick

Methlick is a charming village located in North East Scotland, surrounded by stunning landscapes and historic sites. It’s the perfect destination for those who want to enjoy a peaceful getaway and immerse themselves in Scotland’s rich culture.

List of Places to Visit in Methlick

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in history and culture, Methlick has plenty of attractions to offer. One of the must-see places is Pitmedden Garden, a stunning 17th-century formal garden that features over 5 miles of hedges. Another historical place to visit is Tolquhon Castle, a ruined castle that dates back to the 16th century and was home to the Forbes family.

For those who love museums, the Haddo House is a great choice. It’s a beautiful stately home and was once the seat of the Earls of Aberdeen. The house features stunning artwork and furniture collections, and the surrounding parkland offers plenty of walking trails.

Natural Attractions of Methlick: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Methlick is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty and has plenty of outdoor activities to offer. Bennachie, a range of hills, offers numerous walking and hiking trails that suit hikers of all levels. The Loch of Strathbeg, the largest dune loch in Britain, is a great place for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife.

Another great way to explore Methlick’s natural beauty is by cycling. The Formartine and Buchan Way, a 53-mile-long cycleway, runs through Methlick, and it’s a scenic route that connects several other towns in the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Methlick

If you’re planning to hike or bike in Methlick, we recommend exploring some of the trails in Bennachie. The Mither Tap trail is a popular route that takes you to the summit of Bennachie, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Another great option is the Bennachie Centre, which features several trails of varying difficulty levels.

Best Things to Do in Methlick: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and cycling, there are plenty of fun activities to do in Methlick. If you’re interested in fishing, the Loch of Strathbeg is a great place to go for fishing for trout and pike. You can also try your hand at clay pigeon shooting or archery at the Haddo House.

There are also several guided tours that you can take to explore Methlick’s history and culture. The Tolquhon Castle Guided Tour is highly recommended, providing a fascinating insight into the castle’s history. You can also experience a traditional Scottish ceilidh dance at the New Deer Show Hall.

Week-Long Itinerary for Methlick

If you plan to spend a week in Methlick, here is a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore Methlick’s museums and historical sites, including the Haddo House and Tolquhon Castle.
  • Day 2-3: Hike or bike in Bennachie and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
  • Day 4: Take a guided tour of New Deer and experience a traditional ceilidh dance.
  • Day 5: Relax and enjoy fishing at the Loch of Strathbeg.
  • Day 6: Take a scenic drive to the nearby town of Ellon and enjoy a day exploring the local markets and shops.
  • Day 7: Spend your last day in Methlick and enjoy a peaceful walk in Pitmedden Garden.

Food and Drink Scene of Methlick

Methlick has a rich food and drink scene that’s highly influenced by Scotland’s local produce and traditional recipes.

Must-Try Dishes

If you’re a foodie, don’t miss trying out some of Methlick’s signature dishes, including Cullen Skink (smoked haddock soup), Haggis (a savory pudding made with sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs), and Clootie Dumpling (a traditional Scottish dessert made with dried fruit, oatmeal, and spices).

Local Beverages

When it comes to drinks, Scotland is highly regarded for its whiskey, and Methlick is no exception. The Fettercairn Distillery, located only a short drive away, offers a great whiskey tasting experience. Also, don’t forget to try the local beer – the Brewdog Ellon beer is a popular choice among locals.

Where to Stay in Methlick: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Methlick has several options when it comes to accommodation. The Haddo House has several rooms available for guests, offering an exceptional stay in this historic house. There are also several traditional guesthouses, such as the Haughton Arms, that offer a cozy stay for travelers. For those on a budget, the local hostel, Ellon Backpackers, offers a clean and budget-friendly option.

What to Buy in Methlick: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Local crafts and souvenirs are a great way to take a piece of Methlick home with you. The local farm shops offer a great selection of artisanal food products, including cheese, honey, and smoked salmon. If you’re interested in textiles, the Ythanbank Knitwear and Spinning Mill offers high-quality woolen products made with traditional techniques.

Local Culture and Customs of Methlick

Methlick has a rich cultural heritage that’s closely connected to Scotland’s history. You’ll find that the locals are friendly and proud of their village, and you’ll enjoy immersing yourself in the local culture. You may also hear the local dialect, Doric (a type of Scots), spoken throughout the village.

Best Time to Visit Methlick

The best time to visit Methlick is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is pleasant and warm. However, Methlick’s countryside is beautiful in any season, and you can enjoy outdoor activities all year round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Methlick

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.
  • Try out the local food and drinks.
  • Enjoy the natural beauty by hiking or cycling.

Don’t:

  • Leave litter in the countryside.
  • Ignore the local language and dialect.
  • Be disrespectful to the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Methlick

Methlick is generally safe to visit, with a low crime rate. However, when you’re out in the countryside, it’s essential to be aware of safety guidelines, including staying on designated paths and carrying a map.

Health in Methlick

Methlick has a small health center that can provide emergency medical care. However, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Getting to Methlick: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Methlick

The nearest airport to Methlick is Aberdeen International Airport, which is located around 22 miles from the village. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Methlick.

Bus and Train Stations Near Methlick

The closest railway station is located in Inverurie, around 12 miles from Methlick. There are several bus services that connect the village to Aberdeen, Inverurie, and other nearby towns.

Other Options

If you’re arriving in Scotland via ferry, you can connect to Methlick by road or rail. The village is easily accessible by car, and there are several car rental services available.

How to Get Around in Methlick

The best way to get around Methlick is by car or bicycle. There are several car rental services available in the village, and the Formartine and Buchan Way offers a great cycling route. If you prefer to use public transport, the local bus services are a good option.

Where to Go Next from Methlick: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Methlick is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty and has several nearby towns and villages that are worth exploring. Some of the popular destinations include Ellon, New Deer, and Inverurie. You can also take a scenic drive along the coast, exploring the charming villages and towns along the way.

Conclusion

Methlick is a hidden gem in Scotland, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to plan your trip and explore this charming village. Whatever your interests may be, Methlick is sure to enchant you with its beauty and warmth.

Gight Castle: Byron's mother sold it to pay off Mad Jack's gambling debts Gight Castle: Byron's mother sold it to pay off Mad Jack's gambling debts Gatehouse of Tolquhon Castle Gatehouse of Tolquhon Castle There's a dress code for dinner at Haddo House There's a dress code for dinner at Haddo House