Turriff
Banffshire Coast Leaflet (500K)If our coastal towns are built on a maritime heritage, then inland Turriff has thrived through agriculture. Set amidst rich, rolling farming country, the town became the trading point for the surrounding crop growing and ‘beast rearing’ farmers.
It is not surprising then, that Turriff is home to one of Scotland’s most well known annual agricultural shows The ‘Turra Show’, which is almost 150 years old. It’s thought to be the country’s largest two day show of its kind and attracts up to 40 000 visitors – which swells the town’s population of 6 000 considerably! It is always held on the Sunday and Monday before the first Tuesday in August.
There are more that 800 horse and pony entries and intriguingly named classes such as Fur and Feather and ringside events like Sulky Trotting. It’s also a showcase event for the highly regarded Turriff and District Pipe Band - but even the pipers are in the shadow of the livestock – some 450 cattle, 450 sheep, 40 Clydesdale horses and 250 poultry.
Recently unveiled in the town is a statue of its most famous ‘resident’ – The ‘Turra Coo’. This white milk cow became politically notorious across the UK when an attempt was made to seize and sell it in 1913 for non payment of £22 worth of national insurance contributions by its owner in nearby Lendrum. As the farmer’s most ‘moveable’ asset, the cow was walked to Turriff where it was to be auctioned. Locals protested resulting in a near riot and considerable throwing of rotten eggs and soot! The cow was sold for £27 but bought back by locals and returned to its owner.
Turriff’s Castle Street is home to many traditional shops – but the eponymous castle is long gone. However, travel just a mile or so north of the town and you’ll find the stately Delgatie Castle which is open to the public – don’t forget to try their home bakes which are all made freshly daily in the castle kitchen.
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