Alford

Many thanks to The Forbes Arms Hotel for facilitating this camera's location and to Aberdeenshire Council for capitally funding its installation in partnership with The River DonTrust, River Don Salmon Fishery Board, River Don Brown Trout Improvement Association.  Alford, pronounced as /ˈɑːfərd/ (Scots: Aaford or Awfort) and known as Athfort in Scottish Gaelic, is a substantial village located in Aberdeenshire, in the northeastern region of Scotland. It is situated just to the south of the River Don and lies within the Howe of Alford, also referred to as the Vale of Alford, occupying the central stretch of the River Don. The etymology of the place-name is believed to originate from the Scots term 'auld ford,' indicating its initial position along the banks of the Don. Over time, the pronunciation has evolved, and the 'L' sound in the word has been omitted, rendering it silent. Alternatively, the name may be a tautology, combining 'Ath' and 'ford,' both of which signify 'ford' in Gaelic and Scots, respectively.Alford gained prominence as the namesake of the Battle of Alford (1645), a significant conflict. Additionally, it is notable as the birthplace of the renowned Aberdeen Angus cattle breed, commemorated by a life-sized model of a bull situated on the outskirts of the town. It is believed that the original breeding grounds for these cattle were in Buffal, located between Tough (Tulloch) and Craigievar in close proximity to Alford. Another noteworthy aspect of the town is the world-famous Alford Oatmeal, which is ground at Montgarrie, just outside the town.
Due to Alford's relatively isolated location and its extensive catchment area, the village boasts a wide array of services, including a single bank, a butcher shop, a supermarket, two garages, a bakery, and a diverse range of other shops. Furthermore, it offers recreational amenities such as a dry ski slope, a swimming pool, and a public library. Alford is home to several popular visitor attractions, including the Alford Valley Railway, the Grampian Transport Museum, the Alford Heritage Centre, and Craigievar Castle. Additionally, the area offers convenient access to various other archaeological sites, stone circles, and castles, such as Balfluig Castle, Castle Fraser, and Drum Castle, thanks to its favorable road connections. Haughton Country Park, situated in Alford, is a sizable and well-liked green space featuring a caravan park and woodland trails. Furthermore, the attractive and pleasant Alford Golf Club offers an 18-hole course with a substantial local membership..