Ellon Travel Guide

Ellon is a town in the Grampian Highlands located at the point where the River Ythan is low enough to be forded. The name comes from the Gaelic word "Eilean", which means island and it is likely that this location was an important crossing point to the Buchan area. It is the site of an ancient Pictish settlement about 400 B.C. The Celtic Mormaers and the Norman Earls of Buchan held court here as well. These were the Comyns and the enemies of Robert the Bruce, who defeated them at the Battle of Oldmeldrum. It was after this battle in 1308, that the village of Ellon was burned.

From anywhere in Ellon, you can see the ruins of the castle, which was once the ancient fort of Ardgith. Several castles have been built at this site, but it is not open to the public. You can however, see the large castle wall from the road.

Ellon is the ideal location to choose as your base for visiting the many historic sites managed by the National Trust of Scotland. It is also a place of scenic beauty with several exceptional beaches. Birdwatchers love to come here to see the many species of birds that make their nests in the inland lochs and the cliffs.

Walk along the Old Bridge, which was built in 1793, and visit the Moot Hill Monument where the Norman Earls meted out justice to criminals and their enemies. You won’t have any difficulty getting to Ellon Riverside Park where there is a footpath that runs the length of the town. This is the perfect walking opportunity where you can see many of the birds and wildlife of the area. Fish for trout and salmon in the river and you just might find a mussel with a pearl in it. One such pearl was found here and is not one of the jewels in the Crown of Scotland.

Take a walk through the woodlands of Haddo Country Park, which is open all year round. At the visitor centre you will see impressive displays detailing the flora and fauna of the park and you can visit Haddo House, which was built in 1732 for the Earl of Aberdeen. Tee off at the Ellon Golf Course, a magnificent 18-hole, par 72 course that is set in mature woodlands and promises to challenge golfers of all abilities.

There are guesthouses hotels, bed and breakfasts and self-catering cottages in Ellon, so you won’t have difficulty finding a place to stay for a night or a week. Get to know the people by dropping into the pub and shop in the delightful stores in the town.

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