Things To Do
in Ellon
Ellon is a small town located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It is situated along the River Ythan and is known for its picturesque surroundings. The town has a rich history, with attractions such as the ruins of Ellon Castle and the historic Ellon Parish Church.
Ellon also offers a range of amenities including shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Ellon Castle, walking its scenic grounds. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café nearby.
Head to the Ellon Farmers' Market to experience local produce and crafts. Spend some time strolling along the River Ythan.
Dine at a cozy restaurant in Ellon, sampling traditional Scottish dishes. Take a leisurely evening walk through Glenlossie Park.
Visit the local art gallery to appreciate contemporary Scottish art. Participate in a morning workshop if available.
Explore the history of Ellon at a small museum showcasing local heritage. Don't forget to grab lunch at a nearby bistro.
Attend a theater production or live music event at an area venue. Enjoy the local arts scene while savoring a late-night snack.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic coastal views and natural beauty, including sandy beaches and rural landscapes.
- A close-knit community with a friendly atmosphere.
- Proximity to larger cities like Aberdeen for additional amenities and employment opportunities.
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, with various local events and festivals.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, cycling, and water sports.
- Limited job opportunities within the town itself, which may require commuting to larger cities for work.
- Basic amenities might be lacking compared to larger urban areas, such as shopping and entertainment options.
- Potential for isolation, especially for younger residents, due to its small size.
- Weather can be challenging, with a tendency for rain and cold temperatures.
- Public transport options may be limited, making it less accessible for those without a car.
Best Activities in Ellon
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautifully restored gardens surrounding the historic Ellon Castle, ideal for a leisurely walk and enjoying nature.
Enjoy a scenic walk along the River Ythan, with various paths and viewpoints, perfect for hiking and picnicking.
Play a round of golf at the picturesque Ellon Golf Club, which offers a beautiful course suitable for all skill levels.
Use the old railway line for cycling, walking, or running along the Formartine and Buchan Way, which provides stunning countryside views.
Just a short drive from Ellon, enjoy the sandy beaches at Newburgh for sunbathing, walking, and birdwatching.
Take advantage of the beautiful Aberdeenshire countryside by hiking or having a picnic in the many parks and trails around Ellon.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ellon with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ellon
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic ruin surrounded by beautiful parkland, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and picturesque nature trails.
The scenic river runs through Ellon, providing numerous vantage points for capturing peaceful water views and wildlife photography.
A local park featuring well-maintained gardens, playgrounds, and walking paths, perfect for capturing family moments or nature shots, especially during spring and summer.
Just a short drive from Ellon, this location offers breathtaking views of the river estuary and coast, ideal for sunset photography and capturing wildlife.
Located a bit farther from Ellon, this beach features expansive sand dunes and stunning coastal views, perfect for dramatic landscape photography.
Food in Ellon
Ellon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Scottish soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, best enjoyed at The New Inn or The Tolbooth Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A savory pudding containing sheep's pluck (heart, liver, and lungs), minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt, often served at The Newburgh Inn.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ellon better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held monthly, the market showcases a variety of locally produced food and beverages, including artisan bread, cheeses, fresh vegetables, and homemade jams.
A yearly event offering an array of street food from around the world, with options like gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and Thai street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ellon, as in many parts of the UK, being polite and courteous is highly valued. Use 'please', 'thank you', and 'sorry' frequently in your interactions to show respect.
Being on time is important in the UK. Arriving late for meetings or social gatherings can be seen as disrespectful, so it’s best to arrive on time or a few minutes early.
People in Ellon typically appreciate their personal space. It’s advisable to maintain a comfortable distance during conversations and avoid overly familiar gestures unless you know the person well.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ellon with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ellon
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ellon, as in much of the UK, tipping is generally seen as a way to show appreciation for good service. It is common to tip in restaurants, usually around 10-15% of the bill if the service is not included. Tipping for taxi drivers is also customary, often rounding up to the nearest pound. However, in pubs and casual dining locations, tipping is less formal and may not always be expected.
Payment practices in Ellon are similar to those found across the UK. The most common forms of payment are cash, debit, and credit cards. Contactless payments have become increasingly popular, with many establishments accepting mobile payment options as well. In dining establishments, it is common to settle the bill at the end of the meal, and some places may include a service charge for larger groups.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ellon.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Ellon typically runs from March to May. It's a lovely time to visit as flowers bloom and the weather starts to warm up. Expect mild temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). It's a great season for outdoor activities, exploring local parks, and enjoying festivals.
Summer, from June to August, is the warmest time of year in Ellon, with temperatures averaging between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). This season is perfect for outdoor attractions, picnics, and local events. Expect longer daylight hours and a vibrant atmosphere, especially during local fairs and markets.
Autumn lasts from September to November. The temperatures begin to cool, averaging 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) again. This season offers stunning fall foliage, making it a picturesque time for nature walks. It can be rainy, so visitors should come prepared for varied weather.
Winter in Ellon spans from December to February. Expect colder weather with temperatures typically ranging from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). While snowfall can occur, it is usually light. This season is quieter, making it ideal for cozy indoor activities, as well as experiencing local winter festivities and Christmas markets.
Ellon at Night
Hiking in Ellon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Bennachie is a popular hill located approximately 15 miles southwest of Ellon, offering a variety of trails with beautiful views of the surrounding area.
This scenic coastal path offers stunning views of the North Sea and takes you through beautiful landscapes near Cruden Bay, about 10 miles from Ellon.
Located roughly 7 miles from Ellon, Forvie offers diverse wildlife and various walking trails through coastal and dune habitats.
Just 12 miles from Ellon, Glen Garioch features several hiking trails that showcase the beauty of the Aberdeenshire countryside.
Approximately 20 miles from Ellon, Tarland Trails offers a network of paths through forests and farmland, suitable for both walking and mountain biking.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ellon through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ellon by plane.
Located approximately 16 miles from Ellon, this airport serves a variety of domestic and international flights.
Located about 93 miles northwest of Ellon, this airport offers connections to various UK and some international destinations.
Approximately 132 miles south of Ellon, Edinburgh Airport is the main international gateway to Scotland.
Situated around 190 miles south of Ellon, this is one of the busiest airports in Scotland, offering extensive domestic and international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Ellon, originally from the UK.
This includes individuals from other European countries and those identifying as White but not specifically British.
Comprising South Asian, East Asian, and Southeast Asian communities.
Individuals identifying as belonging to more than one ethnic group.
This group includes individuals from African and Caribbean backgrounds.
This category includes individuals from various other ethnic backgrounds.
The Soul of Ellon
Discover the essence of Ellon through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Ellon, with numerous local teams and a strong community following.
Cricket enjoys popularity in Ellon, with local clubs that participate in regional leagues.
Rugby has a significant presence in the Ellon area, featuring clubs that cater to various age groups and skill levels.
Running is widely practiced in Ellon, with local events and clubs promoting physical fitness and competition.
Field hockey is a popular sport among younger audiences in Ellon, with clubs providing training and competitive opportunities.
Cycling is a favored activity in Ellon, owing to its picturesque routes and community cycling groups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ellon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many establishments in Ellon offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as The Coffee Apothecary and The Tolbooth Restaurant, ensuring those with plant-based dietary preferences have a variety of choices.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free options at restaurants like The Newburgh Inn and The Kilted Chef, where dishes are thoughtfully prepared to accommodate such dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ellon with these cultural adventures.