Live Like Royalty In Banchory

Set in the Royal Deeside town of Banchory, less than 15 miles from Aberdeen, Bancon Homes’ new Lochside of Leys development is situated in one of Aberdeenshire’s most stunning and sought-after locations.

Offering modern living at its very best, Banchory combines a secluded woodland setting with fantastic amenities close by. The town, steeped in local history, is spoilt for choice when it comes to local attractions and outdoor activities, as well as a range of town services and eateries.

Favoured by Queen Victoria, who is said to have fallen in love with the area, Banchory offers an idyllic lifestyle, surrounded by impressive natural landscape. Woodland walks, wildlife and the great outdoors are all key parts of Banchory’s beauty.

Beautiful scenery

From Lochside of Leys you can walk to the summit of Scolty Hill, taking in the panoramic views over Royal Deeside and the Grampian mountains. And just a short walk from Banchory’s town centre lies the Falls of Feugh, where visitors can explore the popular beauty spot of the River Dee.

While there, why not pay a visit to the award-winning Falls of Feugh Restaurant, situated right on the banks of the river with the dramatic Falls on the doorstep. Enjoy a cup of tea and a fine piece and witness salmon leaping as they make their way up the fall during spawning season.

Known as one of the sunniest regions in Scotland, Banchory’s walks and trails are even better to be enjoyed during the summer months when local wildlife is at its prime.

Furthermore, being an hour’s drive from the Lecht ski centre, Banchory is a tremendous location for all snow sports enthusiasts.

Bustling activities

If outdoor sports aren’t for you, Banchory also offers a plethora of indoor activities. Set to be completed this summer is Banchory’s new, state of the art sports centre, only a stone’s throw away from Lochside of Leys. The sports complex includes a six-lane swimming pool, a three-court sports hall, a fitness suite, squash courts and a café.

Furthermore, with two golf courses and Crathes Go Ape, as well as shopping and dining choices such as Raemoir Garden Centre and Banchory Lodge Hotel, the wealth of activities in Banchory are endless.

Banchory has also become a hot spot for pop up events and special celebrations. From duck racing in the Coy Burn, to Saturday farmers markets, events around Banchory and Deeside are some of the most popular and well attended in Aberdeenshire.

In recent years, the Banchory Beer Festival, organised by local brothers Guy and Mungo Findlayson, has seen thousands descend on the town to try local beers, gins and prosecco, while enjoying live music and street food.

Boundless history

Thanks to neighbouring royal residences, Banchory and Royal Deeside is ingrained with great tradition and history. The summer home of the royal family, Balmoral Castle is situated around 45 minutes from Banchory.

Held annually in the heart of Royal Deeside is one of the most famous highland games in Scotland, the Braemar Gathering. With the Royal Deeside Railway line passing through Banchory, which once served generations of the royal family, you are much closer to royalty than you may think.

Bolstering education

When looking for a new home to start a family or put down roots, being nearby a favourable school is often a deal-breaker. As well as two primary schools in the town, the Lochside of Leys development is in the catchment area of Banchory Academy, one of the best state schools in the country.

According to new government figures and exam result rankings, Banchory Academy is the 13^th best high school in Scotland. Where 62% of pupils gain five or more Highers and 84% of school leavers achieve 5 or more national 5s, 26% greater than the national average.

With so much on your doorstep, now could be the chance to live like a king or queen in Banchory. Explore the beautiful neighbourhood of Lochside of Leys, a great place to call home.

• Prices at Lochside of Leys currently start at £299,995 for a three-bedroom Cairn house type. To find out more and reserve, please call 01330 825487, email Oaklands@bancon.co.uk or visit the Oaklands show apartment on Hill of Banchory South road, from 10am to 5pm daily.