Candace

Nigel-I spoke to two agents at GNER they both confirmed one way at 26 pounds a piece.We had to change our travel times to get it. We are leaving on the 10 a.m direct train from Aberdeen to Kings Cross. She said they only had 6 seats left at that price and I took 3 of them they were very nice and helpful once she knew my times were flexible. I tried to verify cost with my credit card company but it hasn't posted yet. I'll post something if the price is different. <BR> <BR>Sheila- Thank you for the comprehensive <BR>list I'll be looking into these places. <BR>We will be there from July 1st-7th.

Sheila

Topping as a reminder to me

Sheila

Candace- things to do... <BR> <BR>You are in Deeside during the Aboyne and Deeside Festival. Details available when you get here. <BR> <BR>The 1st and 2nd see the Portsoy Scottish Traditional Boat Festival. I've never been but it's meant to be very good. <BR> <BR>Nothing else really leaps out at me from the list- maybe the Clan Heritage Society weaponry and combat display at Balvenie Castle. <BR> <BR>Nothing else stunning and date sensitive that I can see. <BR> <BR>The National Trust runs its own programme..worth checking when you get here. <BR> <BR>When last I was "talking" to you, I met the new owners of the Loch Kinord Hotel and their dessert chef (they were at an award ceremony I was a guest at, and they won!) <BR> <BR>Refurbished hotel about 4 miles from Ballater- might be worth a meal out?

Candace

Thanks again Sheila you are such a great resource. We have added the archeaolink and Portsoy festival to our plans. It appears the Deeside festival strarts the day after we leave. Is Loch Ness worth going to or would our time be better spent elsewhere? We only have 5 full days there.

Sheila

Loch Ness is certainly doable in a day, but there's a lot of good stuff closer. <BR> <BR>Deeside itself is pretty good, and you're just an hour or so from Pitlochry over the hills. Your choices are wide.

Sheila

I checked the National Trust guide for when you're here. There's a children's tour and an adult's tour of Castle Fraser on the first; a Ranger guided walk at castle Fraser on the 1st. <BR> <BR>a Bon Accord Cloggies- clog dancers- "do" at Castle Fraser on the 2nd. Drum Castle is part of the Gardens scheme on the 2nd and there's a promenade recital on clasiical guitar at Fyvie Castle on the 2nd. <BR> <BR>On the 5th ther'e a Children's walk at Crathes castle; with garden walk later. there a ranger guided walk at Mar Lodge on the 5th and Romeo &Juliet is playing at Drum on the 6th. Hope this helps further