Art and Culture

Art and Culture

Artist
Art Collection

Duff House
Duff House is a treasure house and cultural arts centre operated by a unique partnership of Historic Scotland, the National Galleries of Scotland and Aberdeenshire Council. Story-tellers, musicians and artists are at home here and Duff House organises a regular artistic programme of exhibitions, music and lectures.

Duff House was designed by William Adam and built between 1735 and 1740 as the seat of the Earls Fife. There have been an astonishing variety of occupants and visitors to the House over the two and half centuries since it was built. There were the Duffs themselves, an ambitious family who acquired great wealth, power and status but were seldom lucky in love. One unhappy Countess Fife even attempted to murder her husband within the walls of Duff House! An army of servants kept the House and policies running smoothly, and in the twentieth century Duff House was in turn a palm court hotel, a sanatorium and a prisoner of war camp. Opened as a country house gallery after extensive restoration in 1995, Duff House now enjoys 5-star visitor attraction status from Aberdeen & Grampian Tourist Board.

With extensive grounds and woodland walks by the river Deveron you will find a day is not enough. 

The Banffshire Coast is home to many artists, potters and craftsmen whose galleries and workshops are dotted along the coastline, many of which are open to the public.

Wood of Shaws
Wood of Shaws is a small country estate set in idyllic surroundings beside the River Deveron in Aberdeenshire, North East Scotland.  It is a place of outstanding natural beauty offering peace, tranquillity, inspiration and motivation to painters of all abilities.

The Creative Retreat
The Creative Retreat offers arts courses, excellent artist studios, and charming and comfortable large self-catering accommodation. Based in the tranquil fishing village of Gardenstown on Scotland’s stunning Banffshire Coast, we extend a warm welcome.

Our two delightful 18th century seaside holiday cottages make the perfect place for a rural retreat or creative holiday. Experience wild beaches, wonderful sunsets and some of the best fresh food Scotland has to offer. Then come inside to wood burning fires, fabulous sofas and just relax in a self catering cottage designed with your comfort in mind. Or use our unique studio spaces to explore your own creativity; you can make your own art workshop or take advantage of the art courses we offer throughout the year. The studios are also a great place for the kids to make a mess during your weekend retreat!

Our unusual venue means you can have the holiday that’s just right for you: the combination of self catering group accommodation, artists studios to rent, and residential art courses ensure our guests return year after year to enjoy this delightful country retreat under acres and acres of sky . . .

Folk at the Salmon Bothy
Folk music club that organises events

Durnhill Farm
Ceramic workshop - open all year round, but appointments may be required.

Salix Pottery & Gallery
A small pottery and gallery situated on the road to the Troup Head nature reserve. We show high quality paintings, prints, photographs and ceramics.