A LOOP THROUGH ROYAL DEESIDE

We've now left Aberdeen behind and headed inland to Alford, once served by the Great North of Scotland Railway.

The station site here later became the HQ of the Aford Valley Railway.

Inside the shed in 1986, with a steam loco.

Some 1997 scenes on the Alford Valley Railway.

Stagecoach Bluebird had a small depot in Alford.

Further west, to Braemar Castle in 1965.

The old Brig o' Dee bridge in Braemar.

A nice scene in the Braemar area, early 1970.

We're not visiting royalty today, but here's a pleasant scene around Balmoral.

Next, the unusual Crathie Kirk.

The railway stretched out as far as Ballater. LNER 2247 is seen here (Photographer unknown).

Ballater station in 1961 (Ben Brooksbank).

Further down the valley, we come to Banchory station, first in GNoSR times.....

.....then in 1961. All gone now! (Ben Brooksbank).

We soon approach the coast again, pausing only to view the graveyard at Fetteresso.

Now, it's time to view the harbour town of Stonehaven. There was a traditional signal box there in 1990.

Outside the station, this 'Y' type belonging to a local operator.

Stonehaven town centre, 1976.

Here's a view of the harbour (Creative Commons License).

Overlooking the harbour, the excellent Ship Inn.

That seems a good spot to conclude this post. There's a castle to see in the next one. Here's a link to the route.