There’s nothing quite like the feeling of getting away from it all and escaping to the countryside. The space, air, peace and quiet are all very appealing, especially to those who lead busy lives. That's why, nowadays, many people swap city living for a life in the countryside, like the lovely village of Durris.
Only 14 miles south-west of Aberdeen, Durris is a focal point between Royal Deeside and the hustle and bustle of the city and suburbs. We’ve spoken with local residents to find out why they opted for the countryside and the top reasons why they love to call the Woodlands of Durris development their home.
1. Ideal for families
There’s no better feeling than spending quality time with your family, and the countryside makes this even better. After a long day at work, a perfect way to wind down is to escape out into the fresh air with the family – whether it’s to go for a walk, play in the garden or even cycle around the local countryside.
In addition, the development is conveniently located close to schools, with the closest nursery, Crossroads Nursery only a five-minute drive from your doorstep. A primary school is located just next door and is a lovely small school, which at present has only two classes with P1-4 in one class and P5-7 in a second class. The schooling is exceptional and has a great selection of extracurricular activities with a swimming club, football team and an athletics club, too. If you have secondary age children, the catchment is Banchory Academy, which is consistently ranked among the best in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.
2. The perfect location
The city is less than a 30-minute drive away, and the business hubs of the North East are just as close, so you don’t have to worry about enduring a long commute to work or the town centre, but can still enjoy living in the peaceful and beautiful Aberdeenshire countryside.
With access to the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route close by, the Aberdeen International Airport is 21 minutes away, Dyce is 27 minutes away, Bridge of Dee via South Deeside Road is 22 minutes away, while Westhill is only a 19-minute drive. In addition, the train station in Stonehaven is only 20 minutes by car via the Netherley road.
3. Local amenities
The nearest supermarkets are Tesco and Morrisons at the lovely town of Banchory, which is around a 10-minute drive away. There is also a M&S and Co-op in Peterculter, also just a 10-minute drive by car.
However, if you are a foodie, Park Shop, located in the village of Drumoak only a five-minute drive from Durris, offers artisan food including a deli, coffee, wine, freshly baked pastries, pies, cakes, sandwiches and organic foods.
On the other hand, if you are a gym bunny, Peterculter has a sports centre and there is also the Unit Gym located in Banchory. In addition, there is a fantastic new leisure centre, the Banchory Sports Village, currently under construction and due for completion this summer with an opening date on August 20.
4. More for your money
Sometimes living a little out the city centre gives you more for your money. You can get a bigger garden, that extra bedroom you’ve always wished for, more room for family and friends and maybe even a garage – all for the same price as a home in the city centre.
Also, the Woodlands of Durris development has good connectivity with fibre broadband being installed this summer in 2019, and there is a dedicated parking area within the development for visitors.
5. Plenty to see and do
Being situated in the heart of the countryside gives you endless opportunities of things to do around the area, making Durris the perfect starting point for any adventure. Walking, running, cycling, wildlife spotting, climbing, fishing and canoeing to name a few. You can also visit some of Royal Deeside's historical sights like the majestic castles Drum and Crathes.
Throughout the year there are events such as the Banchory Show, which is on the last Saturday of July, the Banchory Gin & Beer Festival, the Monthly Farmers’ Market, 10K Beast Race and, an art craft and food festival at Crathes Castle in July.
For a little adventure, visit 'Go Ape' at Crathes Castle, a high ropes course with crossings, zip wires and, as they call them, 'Tarzan swings". There is also cafe nearby, a great play area for the kids and dogs are allowed too!
The foodies out there will also be pleased to hear there are several great restaurants nearby including a fantastic Chinese restaurant in Peterculter called 'Royal China', a great Indian called 'The Himalayas', and several pubs, including 'The Ploughman', which offers good home-cooked food. If you are looking for something a little special, there is the 'Milton Brasserie' at Crathes for a premium dining experience.
Banchory also offers an abundance of good restaurants and coffee shops, artisan shops and restaurants including The Barn and Banchory Lodge, both of which our sales advisor highly recommends.
However, if you prefer a day out in the city, Aberdeen is close enough that you can still enjoy its shops, cinemas and leisure facilities.
If this sounds like the lifestyle you want to live with your family, then request a callback from our sales advisor by clicking on the button below and find out more about our intimate Woodlands of Durris development. With only a few homes available, this development is not to be missed!
