Speyside Way: Craigellachie to Aberlour
Moray
Dog friendly and genuinely relaxing, this section of the Speyside Way follows the old Strathspey Railway line between Craigellachie and Aberlour, running almost level beside the River Spey through mixed woodland and open farmland. Fishermen dot the river, the views across to the Ben Rinnes range are lovely, and both villages have cafes, toilets and distilleries worth a pause.
Dogs must be on a lead near livestock and on the short road sections through each village, but the core of the route is wide, well surfaced and safe for dogs of any age or fitness. Parking is free at Fiddich Park in Craigellachie or at the Aberlour station car park, and there is shade, water access and benches along the way. Expect occasional cyclists on this shared path.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 6.5 km (4.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Duration
- 2 hr
- Walk Type
- River, Historic
- Route Type
- Point to Point
- Off Lead Potential
- Moderate
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- Toilets, cafes, pubs and shops in both Craigellachie and Aberlour; benches and picnic spots along the river.
- Parking
- Free parking at Fiddich Park in Craigellachie (capacity around 20); further free parking at the old station car park in Aberlour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Speyside Way: Craigellachie to Aberlour dog friendly?
Yes, this stretch of the Speyside Way earns a solid 8/10 for dog friendliness. The route follows the old Strathspey Railway line, meaning it's almost completely flat and wide, with good surfaces suitable for dogs of any age or fitness level. There's shade, water access from the River Spey, and benches along the way, making it a genuinely relaxed outing for you and your dog.
Can dogs be off lead at Speyside Way: Craigellachie to Aberlour?
Dogs can enjoy good freedom along the core riverside section of the route, but leads are required near livestock and on the short road sections passing through Craigellachie and Aberlour. It's also worth being aware that this is a shared path, so you may encounter cyclists along the way — worth keeping in mind if your dog is easily distracted or reactive.
What should I know before visiting Speyside Way: Craigellachie to Aberlour with my dog?
The route runs between two welcoming villages, both of which have cafes, toilets and pubs, so you're well catered for at either end. Free parking is available at Fiddich Park in Craigellachie (around 20 spaces) or at the old station car park in Aberlour, giving you flexibility over where to start. Fishermen are often out on the Spey, so it's worth keeping an eye on your dog near the riverbank.
What’s Nearby?
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