The Mains of Drum Garden Centre and Restaurant
A family-run garden centre and award-winning restaurant offering stunning landscaped grounds, local produce, and expert gardening advice in Royal Deeside.
Nestled in the heart of Royal Deeside near Banchory, The Mains of Drum is a family-owned garden centre renowned for its beautifully landscaped grounds, extensive plant selection, and award-winning restaurant. Open daily, it offers a blend of gardening supplies, unique gifts, and a welcoming café experience with local produce, making it a top destination for visitors exploring the scenic A93 route to Balmoral Castle.
A brief summary to The Mains of Drum
- The Mains of Drum Garden Centre, Banchory, Drumoak, Mains of Drum, AB31 5AN, GB
- +441330811000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the award-winning restaurant for locally sourced breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon teas with vegetarian and vegan options.
- Join the Gardening Club to receive discounts on outdoor plants, bulbs, seeds, and gardening sundries.
- Take advantage of the large free car park with electric vehicle charging points when arriving by car.
- Explore the giftware and food hall sections for unique local products and artisan treats.
- Use the accessible facilities including lifts, wheelchair access, and highchairs for a comfortable visit with all family members.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Aberdeen, take the A93 towards Banchory for approximately 20–30 minutes. The Mains of Drum has a large free car park with electric vehicle charging points. Parking is ample but can fill during weekends and holidays.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Aberdeen and Banchory along the A93 route, with stops near Drumoak village. From the bus stop, expect a 10–15 minute walk on paved roads to reach the garden centre. Check local timetables for frequency and accessibility.
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Coach
Coach groups are welcome with prior arrangement. The centre provides designated coach parking and accessible drop-off points. Travel time from Aberdeen is approximately 30 minutes depending on traffic.
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Walking
For nearby visitors in Drumoak, a 20–30 minute walk along the A93 is possible on footpaths, though caution is advised due to road traffic. The terrain is mostly flat and accessible.
The Mains of Drum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Mains of Drum
A Family-Run Oasis in Royal Deeside
The Mains of Drum Garden Centre is a cherished family-owned destination located on the A93 between Peterculter and Banchory, near the village of Drumoak. Since its establishment in 2009, it has blossomed into a premier shopping and leisure spot in Royal Deeside, surrounded by meticulously maintained landscaped gardens. Visitors are greeted by a vast outdoor area showcasing a diverse range of plants, shrubs, trees, herbs, and seasonal flowers, catering to both novice and expert gardeners alike.Extensive Shopping and Expert Advice
Beyond plants, the centre offers an impressive selection of gardening accessories, outdoor furniture, and homewares. Its giftware department features carefully curated hand-picked items and local artisanal products, including chutneys and preserves, reflecting a strong commitment to supporting the local community. Knowledgeable staff are always on hand to provide expert gardening advice and personalized service, enhancing the shopping experience.A Culinary Highlight with Scenic Views
Perched on the top floor, The Mains of Drum’s award-winning restaurant invites guests to relax in stylish surroundings while enjoying a menu that spans full breakfasts, homemade soups, light lunches, and indulgent afternoon teas. The restaurant prides itself on using local produce, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and is fully licensed for wine and other beverages. Its welcoming atmosphere caters to families and groups, with accessible facilities including lifts, wheelchair access, and highchairs.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The centre is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring level access to the main entrance, accessible toilets, and mobility aids. A large free car park with electric vehicle charging points and coach parking accommodates visitors arriving by car or group tours. Free WiFi and a children’s menu further enhance the visitor experience, making it a comfortable stop for all ages.A Hub for Garden Enthusiasts and Food Lovers
The Mains of Drum also fosters community engagement through its Gardening Club, offering members discounts on outdoor plants and gardening supplies. The Food Hall showcases local specialties, encouraging visitors to take home the best of Aberdeenshire’s produce. Whether seeking inspiration for a garden makeover or a relaxing meal amid stunning scenery, the centre blends retail, dining, and nature seamlessly.Location and Operating Hours
Open daily from 9am to 5pm, with the restaurant serving from 9am to 4pm, The Mains of Drum is conveniently situated on a key tourist route to Braemar and Balmoral Castle. Its combination of quality products, expert service, and tranquil setting makes it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Scotland’s northeast.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Keith's Tower
2.3 km
Discover Keith's Tower near Banchory, a striking 19th-century castellated landmark steeped in Scottish heritage and scenic charm.
Blairs Museum
7.7 km
Explore Scotland’s Catholic heritage through centuries-old artifacts at Blairs Museum near Aberdeen, a unique cultural and spiritual treasure.
Boswell's Monument
8.8 km
Historic hilltop monument offering panoramic Aberdeenshire views and local heritage significance.
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
9.9 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
Stone 45
12.5 km
A historical landmark preserving Aberdeen's heritage in the heart of Bucksburn.
Queen Victoria Statue
13.0 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Edward VIII Post Box
13.3 km
Discover a rare Edward VIII post box in Aberdeen, a unique relic from the brief 1936 reign of a king who changed British history.
Rosemount Market
13.7 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
13.7 km
A polished pink granite obelisk in Duthie Park honoring Sir James McGrigor, father of modern military medicine and a key figure in Aberdeen’s history.
Workers' Memorial
13.9 km
A solemn granite obelisk in peaceful Persley Walled Garden, honoring Aberdeen’s industrial workers who lost their lives.
Dyce Standing Stones
14.0 km
Mysterious Pictish stones bridging pagan and Christian worlds, carved over 1,400 years ago.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
14.2 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
14.2 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Rosemount Palace
14.3 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
14.3 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Unmissable attractions to see
Drum Castle - Garden & Estate
1.0 km
Explore 700 years of Scottish history, stunning gardens, and ancient oak woodlands at Drum Castle, a timeless estate near Banchory.
Peterculter Golf Club
3.3 km
Experience the scenic beauty and challenging play of Peterculter Golf Club nestled along the River Dee with panoramic mountain views.
Cullerlie Stone Circle
4.6 km
Explore the rare Bronze Age Cullerlie Stone Circle, a unique cremation site nestled in Aberdeenshire’s tranquil valley landscape.
The Den & The Glen
5.4 km
A nostalgic children’s playground in Maryculter where storybook characters come to life amidst scenic, family-friendly grounds.
Barney Sculpture
5.5 km
Discover the quirky Barney Sculpture, a playful icon within The Den and The Glen’s imaginative fairy-tale park near Aberdeen.
Foggieton
7.3 km
A serene woodland retreat near Aberdeen with historic beech trees, native forests, and family-friendly trails through nature’s quiet beauty.
Milton of Crathes
7.6 km
A historic riverside courtyard blending Scottish heritage, independent shops, art, and family-friendly outdoor activities near Crathes Castle.
Countesswells
7.6 km
A peaceful woodland escape on the edge of Aberdeen, with wide trails, tall trees, and gentle views over farmland and the city skyline.
Crathes Castle
8.0 km
Explore a magnificent 16th-century Scottish castle and its enchanting gardens, blending history, nature, and family fun near Banchory.
Piper Alpha Memorial
9.9 km
A poignant memorial garden in Aberdeen honoring the lives lost in the world’s deadliest offshore oil rig disaster.
Hazlehead Park
10.1 km
Explore Aberdeen’s largest historic park with gardens, trails, golf, a petting zoo, and family-friendly fun in a sprawling 180-hectare green oasis.
Den of Maidencraig
10.3 km
A serene nature reserve on Aberdeen’s edge, rich in wildlife and diverse habitats, perfect for nature lovers and peaceful walks.
Aberdeenshire Highland Beef
10.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish Highland cattle farming, premium beef, and immersive farm tours in the heart of Aberdeenshire countryside.
Johnston Gardens
11.5 km
A serene, romantic garden in Aberdeen’s West End, with streams, waterfalls, a rustic bridge, and seasonal blooms – a peaceful escape in the city.
Bridge of Feugh
11.7 km
A historic stone bridge over the Water of Feugh, offering front-row views of the dramatic Falls of Feugh and the famous salmon leap in Royal Deeside.
Essential places to dine
Borsalino
2.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist in the warm, inviting atmosphere of Borsalino, Peterculter’s culinary gem.
The Himalayas Restaurant
3.4 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors served with warm hospitality in the heart of Peterculter, Aberdeen.
The Ploughman
4.0 km
A traditional Scottish pub and restaurant in Peterculter serving hearty local dishes with warm hospitality and a rich drinks selection.
The Garlogie Inn
5.6 km
Discover family-friendly dining at The Garlogie Inn in Westhill, where delicious meals meet warm hospitality in a cozy pub setting.
Shepherds Rest - Pub & Grill
6.9 km
A welcoming Westhill pub where rustic charm meets expert flame-grilled cooking in a family-friendly setting.
Luigi's
7.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy bar vibes at Luigi's, Westhill’s beloved spot for traditional pasta, pizza, and desserts.
The Bieldside Inn
7.8 km
A contemporary English pub and restaurant in Aberdeen offering quality food, warm hospitality, and inviting spaces for every occasion.
Blairs Restaurant
8.9 km
Refined Scottish dining in a historic country estate near Aberdeen, blending fresh local flavors with elegant ambiance.
Scott Skinner's Restaurant & Bar
10.4 km
A charming family-run pub and restaurant in Banchory offering hearty Scottish fare and warm hospitality in a cosy, welcoming setting.
The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa
10.5 km
Luxurious Victorian country house hotel with elegant rooms, fine dining, and a tranquil spa set in peaceful gardens near Aberdeen.
The Conservatory Restaurant and Drawing Room Bar | The Marcliffe
10.5 km
Elegant British dining in a historic Aberdeen mansion with refined cuisine, live music, and warm hospitality.
The Cowshed Restaurant & Takeaway
11.0 km
A family-owned haven in Aberdeenshire serving simple, seasonal Scottish cuisine with a popular fresh fish takeaway.
Mains Of Balquharn Brewers Fayre
11.3 km
Family-friendly pub in Portlethen serving classic British dishes and hearty breakfasts in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Banchory Lodge Hotel
11.4 km
A charming 4-star riverside hotel in Royal Deeside offering comfort, local cuisine, and scenic Scottish landscapes.
Restaurant at The Lodge
11.4 km
Elegant riverside dining at Banchory Lodge Hotel, blending local flavors with historic Scottish charm and scenic Dee River views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hidden Scotland Shop
7.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and handmade treasures in a charming, character-filled shop nestled in Milton of Crathes near Banchory.
Sonya Angus: The Unique Boutique
9.3 km
Discover stylish gifts, rustic furniture, and fashion accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique nestled in Cults’ charming Courtyard.
Gifted
11.5 km
Discover unique and locally inspired gifts at Gifted, Aberdeen’s boutique treasure trove on Countesswells Road.
Joli Gifts
11.7 km
A cozy independent gift shop in Aberdeen filled with handmade treasures, local art, and thoughtful Scottish souvenirs.
Hush Living
11.9 km
Discover unique homeware and gifts in the charming independent boutique of Hush Living, nestled in the heart of Banchory.
Copper & Grey
12.1 km
Discover unique gifts and colorful treasures at Copper & Grey, Banchory’s beloved family-run boutique on High Street.
Treehouse
12.5 km
Discover unique gifts, home furnishings, and a cozy café experience in the charming Treehouse of Midmar near Inverurie.
Made by Mums with Love
12.9 km
Discover heartfelt handmade gifts crafted by mums, supporting families through creativity and community in Aberdeen.
The Stock Shop Ltd.
13.0 km
Discover stylish clothing at The Stock Shop Ltd. in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, where fashion meets convenience.
Treehouse Home Store
13.3 km
Discover whimsical homewares, stylish furnishings, and cozy cafe vibes at Aberdeen's Treehouse Home Store—a creative haven for design lovers and casual browsers alike.
Surreal Journey
13.3 km
Discover Surreal Journey, Aberdeen’s boutique clothing shop where fashion meets imaginative artistry in a truly unique retail experience.
The Owl at Number Two
13.4 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and local artistry in a warm, inviting boutique shop on Mid Stocket Road, Aberdeen.
Country Ways Aberdeen
13.6 km
Northeast Scotland's premier destination for country, lifestyle, and equestrian wear since 1978.
Kafka Mercantile
13.7 km
Independent Aberdeen retailer since 1990, curating artisanal clothing and footwear from distinctive international brands.
LUXE
13.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at LUXE, a charming gift shop in Cove Bay, Aberdeen, that captures the essence of Scotland.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Black's Bar
3.0 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and lively village pub charm at Black's Bar in Peterculter, Aberdeen.
The Old Bank Bar Ltd
3.1 km
A charming former bank turned cozy bar and cafe, blending historic character with friendly service and hearty meals in Peterculter.
The Paddock Bar
11.7 km
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Quoiters Cafe Bar
12.4 km
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Brig O Dee Bar
12.6 km
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Croft & Cairns
12.8 km
A friendly and welcoming bar and restaurant in Aberdeen offering generous scratch-made meals and a versatile function room in a quiet, convenient setting.
Abergeldie Bar
13.0 km
Abergeldie Bar blends cozy charm and vibrant nightlife in Aberdeen’s city centre with quality drinks and welcoming vibes.
Murdos Bar
13.1 km
A vibrant community pub in Aberdeen offering great food, live sports on multiple screens, a welcoming atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden.
The Staging Post
13.1 km
A friendly and lively local pub in Bucksburn with great drinks, sports, and a family-friendly beer garden.
Holburn Bar
13.5 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Aberdeen offering great food, drinks, and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
Foundry aberdeen
13.7 km
Lively Aberdeen pub blending live sports, great food, and vibrant entertainment in a warm, modern setting.
College Bar
13.8 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant sports and cocktail bar with live music, state-of-the-art viewing, and versatile event spaces in a historic granite building.
The Glentanar Bar
13.8 km
A stylish, dog-friendly independent bar in Aberdeen’s West End, known for local food vendors, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Grape & Grain
13.9 km
Luxurious wine bar in Aberdeen's west end, where curated wines, craft drinks, and gourmet nibbles create intimate evenings of flavor and finesse.
The Queen Vic
13.9 km
Aberdeen's hometown pub since 1996: pints, sports, and community spirit in cozy Rosemount.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Babylon
13.8 km
Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.
491 Union Street
13.8 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at this top-of-Union-Street hotspot, where killer beats, craft drinks, and epic events light up weekends until dawn.
Venga
14.0 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at Venga, where retro beats, themed nights, and cocktails fuel unforgettable dances until dawn on vibrant Chapel Street.
Club Tropicana & Venga
14.0 km
Compact retro nightclub on Chapel Street with neon kitsch, themed nights and a late‑night dancefloor for nostalgic hits and loud, energetic DJ sets.
Number 7 Club
14.4 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
14.4 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
The Underground Klub
14.5 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Private Eyes
14.5 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
The Mask Club
14.5 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
Exodus
14.5 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
14.7 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
43.6 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Royal Night Club
60.6 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.
De Vitos Nightclub
61.6 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Arbroath at De Vitos Nightclub, where unforgettable dance parties and vibrant music await you!
The Attic Club
62.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kirriemuir at The Attic Club, where cozy ambiance meets a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly