Cairngorms Cultural & Nature Tour at Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most visitors with light physical activity required
Overview
Discover the Cairngorms’ natural wonders and local history at the Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre. Dive into immersive exhibits, explore heritage, and enjoy the stunning Highland landscapes.
Discovery Centre Exhibition including Dark Skies, Our Heritage and Digital Archive
For all ages! • 60 minutes • See the Stars! • An Immersive experience!
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About This Adventure
Discover the wonders of Tomintoul & Glenlivet at the community-run Discovery Centre. Engage with interactive exhibits like the Dark Skies VR experience and the Illicit Still, explore local heritage, and access a digital archive. This unique destination offers a memorable journey through nature, history, and innovation in the heart of the Cairngorms.
Welcome
Welcome to Tomintoul & Glenlivet Discovery Centre your gateway to Tomintoul & Glenlivet, The Cairngorms National Park and Moray Speyside. Whether you're interest is Dark Skies, castles, local wildlife or walking your visit to Tomintoul & Glenlivet will be truly unique. No stay in our area is complete without a visit to our community owned, community run Discovery Centre. Here you'll find all you need to plan your visit and much, much more!
• Virtual Reality - Dark Skies / Illicit Still Experience • Museum and Heritage Collection • Digital Archive • Local Information • Maps and Guides • Toilets • Free Wifi • Open everyday 10am - 5pm from Easter to end of October
Duration
We recommend 60 minutes for the full tour or 15 minutes for Dark Skies VR experience or Illicit Still Experience
About
New for 2021 - A new interactive exhibit that will take you on a journey through space and time, explore the planets, solar system and Aurora Borealis. Experience a visit to the International Space Station or explore the solar system via one of our virtual reality headsets. View the night sky and explore the constellations through one of our augmented reality iPad exhibits.
'Our Heritage' Museum exhibit: learn about our area's fascinating heritage including the history of the Tomintoul Coat, Scalan Seminary, the Wolf of Badenoch or visit the Wild Cat Den in our museum exhibition.
Illicit Still VR: Explore an illicit still deep in the heart of Glenlivet countryside with our whisky inspired Virtual Reality Exhibit .
New for 2021 Digital Archive: Three archive stations, where you can view the archive and research genealogy. Explore over 1000 images from private and public collections. Listen to local people recount stories of daily life in a highland community in years gone by.
If you want to book for more than 8 people, please contact us!
Adventure Tips
Plan your visit around starry nights
Check the Dark Skies VR schedule and don’t miss the clear night sky views.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploration
The exhibits are indoors, but the surrounding area offers scenic outdoor walks.
Bring a notebook for observations
Document interesting facts or sketches during your visit to enhance the experience.
Allocate at least 2 hours for the full experience
To fully enjoy the exhibits and the surrounding scenery, plan accordingly.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red deer
- Golden eagle
History
The area has a rich history tied to whisky production and Highland clans, with remnants of illicit stills still visible in local legends.
Conservation
The centre promotes sustainable tourism initiatives and encourages visitors to respect the local landscape and wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in Aberdeen
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Ideal for indoor exhibits and outdoor scenic walks.
Notebook and pen
Capture observations and sketches during your visit.
Warm layered clothing
Stay comfortable during outdoor activities and stargazing.
winter specific
Camera or smartphone with good low-light capability
Great for capturing the dark skies and scenic surroundings.