Home Report Macduff

Macduff is an attractive coastal town in Aberdeenshire, on the north coast of Banffshire, on the Moray Firth, of roughly 4000 residents. It sits about 47 miles northwest of Aberdeen, about 21 miles east of Buckie, 24 miles west of Fraserburgh, just about 10 miles north of Turriff, and very close to Banff at just over a mile away to the east linked by the seven-arch Deveron Bridge. The town was firmly established as a major fishing port in the region with the construction of its harbour in the late 18th century. Macduff is a former burgh and interestingly was the last place in the United Kingdom where deep-water wooden fishing boats were built.

The harbour still plays a role in the local economy albeit lessened simply through time and changing economics. Many residents are working in different sectors or commuting to surrounding settlements like Banff, Turriff, Aberdeen, Buckie and Fraserburgh. The town has no railway line, so to get around residents must rely on transport by car and bus. The main routes in and out of the town are the A98, A97 and B9031 roads which allow for travel directly to most destinations for commuters, or for places a bit further away connections to other main routes.

As for amenities in the town, the town has the usual local and chain shops and services you would expect. The harbour still plays a role and is where freshly caught seafood can be bought from local fishmongers, and traditional fish and chip shops, or sampled at the local bars and restaurants. The award-winning Macduff Marine Aquarium – a particular draw in Aberdeenshire Coast’s visitor attractions – provides a fascinating insight into a world beneath the waves which only divers see. All of the exhibits are found in local waters which is surprising to most as the variety of fish, invertebrates and seaweeds is incredibly colourful and does not reflect the traditional image of chilly Scottish waters. Another draw, but more for golf lovers is the Royal Tarlair Golf Club which boasts fantastic views out to sea and across the Bay of Cullen. Being so close to Banff means residents practically share all the amenities therein too.

In terms of local schooling, children in Macduff will typically attend Macduff Primary School, while some on the western side of the town may attend Banff Primary. When reaching secondary school age, children will attend Banff Academy. With the towns being so close it is a short journey away for most.