Banff tourist information

Banff has been a port settlement on the Moray Firth since the 12th Century, now a thriving and historic seaside town separated from its sister town Macduff by a seven arched bridge over the River Deveron.

The town is divided into the grand 'Upper Town' graced by Georgian architecture, and the older 'Scotstown' by the harbour. Its Deveron bridge dates from 1799 and was built by John Smeaton, who was also responsible for the Eddystone Lighthouse.

The beautiful and imposing Duff House in Banff was built by William Adam between 1735 and 1740 for the Earl of Fife. This fine Georgian building is one of the highlights of the region and is now an art gallery forming part of the National Gallery of Scotland.

The area is full of attractions for the visitor, such as Banff museum, one of Scotland's oldest, and Banff Castle, rebuilt as a mansion in the 18th Century. It is also an ideal base for golfers, and the Duff House Royal Golf Club celebrated its centenary year in 2010.

There is a tourist information centre in the town.

The surrounding Moray Firth coastline is famed for its long sandy beaches, clifftop paths and wildlife - including dolphins and seals. Local activities make maximum use of the sea, including boat trips from the harbour, sailing, fishing and wind surfing.