Inverurie is a historic market town located just northwest of Aberdeen, at the confluence of the rivers Ury and Don. With a population of about 15000, it is known locally as the Heart of the Garioch. The town centre’s focal point is the Town Hall and the Inverurie and District War Memorial, topped by a solitary figure of a Gordon Highlander gazing out over the town. Key shopping streets include Market Place and West High Street, the latter extending from the town centre into predominantly residential areas. To the south of the River Don lies the village of Port Elphinstone, which forms part of the Royal Burgh of Inverurie.
Route Planning
Great journey planner for bikes –it’s open source so any cycle routes added to OpenStreetMap appear here: www.cyclestreets.net
For public transport to/from Inverurie, plan your journey at www.travelinescotland.com
Local Trips
If you want to cycle nearby, there are a number of shared use paths (i.e. for both cyclists and pedestrians) around Inverurie, as well as quieter streets – click here for a map.
One of the easiest destinations to cycle to is Kintore, cycling through Inverurie and along a shared-use path parallel to the A96. After exploring Kintore, cutting through Midmill Business Park you will find a quiet, rural track that leads to Blackburn.
Also locally is East Aquhorthies Stone Circle, one of the best-preserved examples of a recumbent stone circle and one of the few that still have their full complement of stones, and the only one that has all its stones still standing without having been re-erected.
Local Scenery
Further Afield
Picking up a bike from Peterhead, you can easily access the nearby towns of Oldmeldrum, Kemnay, or Kintore.
- Heading North East (18km round trip): Oldmeldrum, a charming destination slightly off the main tourist trail. Once known as the “Granary of Aberdeen” for its high-quality barley production, the town is home to one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries — Glen Garioch, established in 1797. Explore Oldmeldrum
- Heading Southwest (20km round trip): Kemnay offers visitors a peaceful rural setting and a welcoming village atmosphere. Positioned along the scenic River Don, Kemnay is an ideal base for outdoor pursuits, with picturesque countryside and a network of tranquil walking trails waiting to be explored. Nearby, the impressive Castle Fraser—one of Scotland’s largest tower houses — invites exploration through its medieval halls, elegant Victorian rooms, and an extensive historic library.
Explore Kemnay
- Heading South (14km round trip): Kintore, with its roots tracing back to a 12th-century Royal Charter, offers a compelling window into the rich historical tapestry of Aberdeenshire. At the heart of Kintore stands the striking granite Town House, an architectural landmark distinguished by its elegant double staircase leading to the historic council chamber. Visitors can explore a variety of notable sites that speak to Kintore’s vibrant heritage, including Kinkell Church, Balbithan House, the Boat of Kintore, Tuach Hill, Hallforest Castle, as well as remnants of the historic Turnpike Roads, Aberdeenshire Canal, and railway infrastructure. Explore Kintore
Whichever route you choose, be sure to make time to take a break at any one of the cafes or pubs, or indulge in some local retail therapy!
For further inspiration and suggestions for places to eat, take a look at visitabdn.com