Formartine and Buchan Way

The Formartine and Buchan Way has been justifiably designated as one of Scotland’s Great Trails.  It is an impressive, safe pathway suitable for all abilities of walkers, cyclist and horse-riders. 

The pathway uses the former railway line linking from Dyce, on the edge of Aberdeen in the south, to the village of Maud where it splits into two routes; eastwards to Peterhead and northwards to Fraserburgh.

The route is an impressive 53 miles in length, is entirely off road and relatively flat, however it passes through such a varied and interesting landscape that the outlook is constantly changing and the journey never boring. 

In addition to being a great route for recreation and commuting, the former railway line is also an extremely valuable natural corridor providing a haven for many kinds of wildlife in the midst of a productive landscape.  

• Challenge yourself to cycle or ride the whole route or enjoy one or more of the short
  sections, linking with other path networks to make a circular route or catching a bus
  to back where you started.
• Visit Country Parks, stately homes, historical sites and museums situated alongside
  the old railway line
• Discover the many local and migrating species of wildlife which use this
  natural corridor as their home.
• Join in with the many events held throughout the year in the towns
  and villages along the route.

The section of the route between Maud and Bruckley Bridge (grid ref. NJ927483 to NJ 926505) is currently being leveled and surfaced.  A diversion is in place using the B9106 and A950, however the diversion is on a public road and therefore maybe unsuitable for inexperienced cyclists and young children.  The full route should be open and useable before the end of 2011.

A new information pack has been produced providing lots of detail to help you make the most of this great trail, including some history of the former railway line and information about the towns and villages along the route.  A set of eleven route cards accompany the information booklet and these provide more detailed information about short, easy to manage sections of the route. The information packs can be purchased from Tourist Information Centers and some local shops priced at just £2.50 a pack or they can be downloaded free of charge from here.