Lumphanan

Lumphanan is a small Village in Aberdeenshire, 25 miles from Aberdeen and 10 miles from Banchory. The village has a population of around 520 and is set in a gorgeous landscape, looking onto Royal Deeside. The village has a small number of amenities, including corner shop, tea room, and pub.

Lumphanan also has a wonderful community spirit with many community events happening throughout the calendar, often ran by the Lumphanan Community Recreation Association (LCRA). The village is home to the first 10k of the year in Scotland, called the ‘Detox’.   

Population

520 people

Distance from Aberdeen

25 Miles

Transport

Hourly bus service from Aberdeen

Education

Primary School

  • Lumphanan Primary School with nursery unit

Secondary Schools

  • Aboyne Academy
Additional information

Catchment area information can be found here 

Local amenities: 

  • Local Corner Shop  

 Nearby Leisure Facilities: 

  • Lumphanan Golf Course

History of Lumphanan

The village’s name comes from the Scottish Gaelic name for the pre-reformation Church of St Finnain.  

Known as the site of the battle between Malcolm III and MacBeth, where MacBeth was fatally wounded. Macbeth was then reportedly taken to Scone where he died, however myth states he was beheaded at a stone called MacBeth’s stone that can be found at the Peel of Lumphanan. The site as it is was built in the 13th century. Nearby, you can also find the ruins of Corse Castle, the ancient seat of the Forbes family.  

The village’s railway station stood from 1859 to 1966, until it closed.   

Things to do in Lumphanan

While Lumphanan is a small village, there remains a host of things to do.  

  • Relax at the Meet Again Tea Room 

A small, family-owned and operated tearoom in the village with a host of homemade savouries and treats sure to delight. The food and drink are both fresh (sometimes right in front of you!), and the owner is always around to chat. It’s clear that the space is a labour of love, and if you’re lucky, the owner’s husband will be around to point you on the best walks around the area! 

  • Travel through time to the Peel Ring of Lumphanan 

If you love history, then the area is certainly one that is rich in it. The Peel Ring of Lumphanan is a grassy mound that now covers the former site of the castle. There are no ruins but the outline of the castle are visible. It’s now a historical monument with connections to MacBeth, and King Edward I. There is free parking, and the site is free to visit. You can get lost in history and explore the surrounding area. 

  • Step into a Fairytale at Dees Waterfall. 

Just a short drive away from the village, the Dess Waterfall is a gorgeous site. Found at the end of a hidden woodland walk, the waterfall is a magical spot for hikes or family picnics. There is very little parking; however, the spot is a hidden gem so most days you’re sure to be able to get great views of the falls.