Found in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, Braemar is much more than just a beautiful rural Aberdeenshire village. Visitors are often drawn to the place by its beautiful mountain scenery, outdoor adventure offerings, and famous castles, but it’s the strong sense of community that makes Braemar such a memorable place to stay.
From locally owned businesses and traditional events, to community-led projects and warm hospitality, the village offers an authentic Scottish experience that keeps people coming back year after year.
A Village With A Strong Identity
Braemar is home to a small population, and has managed to retain its traditional character, while also being able to embrace visitors from around the world. The village has been associated with Scottish heritage due to the historic builds, royal connections, and the world-famous Braemar Gathering. However, despite the international reputation that it has, Braemar remains a close-knit community. Local businesses, volunteers and residents all work together in order to protect the identity of the area, something you won’t find in many other places.
When you walk through the village, you will find welcoming pubs, independent cafes, and artisan shops. A lot of these have been serving locals and visitors for generations, ensuring that the spirit of the village lives on. Although a tourist hotspot, it still offers locals a slower pace of life, encouraging visitors to take their time and immerse themselves in the culture.
A Year Round Calendar Of Events
Braemar’s community spirit comes alive through events that are on all year long. The most famous is the Braemar Gathering, one of Scotland’s best-known Highland Games, attracting competitors and spectators from around the world. This includes members of the royal family also. Some of the most traditional events such as Highland dancing, pipe band performances, and caber tossing helps to celebrate a long standing history of Scottish culture.
More than the Highland Games, Braemar also is known for hosting outdoor events, seasonal markets, walking festivals, and even cultural celebrations that highlight local music, food, crafts, and more. Each of these occasions provides visitors the chance to experience the village beyond the views, and instead become a part of the community for a little while.
Life Surrounded By Nature
The picturesque views of Braemar are a huge part of everyday life. As the village is within Cairngorms National Park, it provides easy access to Caledonian ancient forests, mountain trails, rivers, wildlife, and so much more. Residents and those who are visiting are able to enjoy walking, fishing, wildlife watching, and so much more.
Having such a close relationship with nature has shaped Braemar’s community values. Many local organisations support conservation projects and sustainable tourism. Those visiting are expected to respect the natural environment of Braemar, and help preserve the landscapes in the same way that the locals do.
The Heart Of Braemar – The Community
One of the defining features of Braemar is the role that the local community plays in protecting and improving the village. Braemar Community Limited and other organisations have spent their time restoring historic landmarks, creating community spaces, and supporting projects that can have benefits for both residents of the village, and those who are visiting. This reflects the commitment to preserving the heritage of Braemar, and ensuring that it continues to thrive for future generations.
Local volunteers help to host events, and welcome visitors with open arms. Those in Braemar are extremely proud of their village and all of the work that is done to keep it going, which is evident when you chat to any of the locals, or just looking around.
Spend Your Time Like A Local
Experiencing village life is very different to living in a fast-paced environment. You can head to a local cafe for a morning coffee, browse some of the independent shops here, and take a leisurely walk along the River Dee. There are also plenty of nearby castles including Braemar Castle, and forest trails that you can explore.
If you are willing to travel a little further outside of this wonderful community, the locals will have plenty of recommendations for you. These may include places like Glenshee Ski Centre, Mar Lodge Estate, and so many other wonderful options. All of the locals are friendly, and won’t mind stopping for a chat with you.
Braemar is a place like very few out there, and its sense of community is such an important part of life here, as you now see. Find a place to stay in Braemar.