"It was full of character, great food and really nice staff."
Norrie from United Kingdom
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"Beautiful location. Warm friendly staff. Room comfortable cosy and clean."
Gavin from United Kingdom
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"Very friendly staff, fantastic location, very quiet, good was fabulous!!!"
James from United States
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"Great off street parking. Excellent twin room with comfy beds and awesome shower."
Ian M from United Kingdom
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"This is the second time we've stayed here for a couple of nights and we've decided it'll be an annual trip."
sjb-11 from United Kingdom
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Rooms
The 16 individually styled rooms offer Ortho Opulence beds with 200 thread count cotton linen. Eight rooms in the original Inn are complemented by eight in the detached Boat House with deep freestanding baths, balconies, and super-king beds. Some rooms provide postcard-worthy views of the River Dee.
Dining
The restaurant serves a high-quality menu using fine Scottish ingredients such as Aberdeen Angus steaks, North Sea fish and seafood, and Highland cheeses. Breakfast is cooked-to-order and included in the stay, with options like the full Scottish breakfast. The bar offers a selection of local ales and spirits, and the coffee house on site provides freshly prepared drinks.
Entertainment & Activities
Regular live entertainment events are held at The Shed, with live music and performances scheduled throughout the week. Guests can rent bicycles, play darts, join walking tours, or hike in the surrounding area. The hotel also provides board games and puzzles for indoor recreation.
Pet-Friendly & Family
The hotel offers dog-friendly rooms with treats, beds, and blankets provided in the bar area. Families receive kids' meals, high chairs, and a designated family-friendly dining space. The bar and outdoor furniture accommodate guests with pets, and the hotel provides pet bowls and ski storage during winter.
Location & Parking
The Boat Inn sits on the banks of the River Dee, about 4 miles east of the Cairngorms National Park. Free parking is available on site, and an electric vehicle charging station serves guests with EVs. The property is roughly 30 miles west of Aberdeen, with easy access to Royal Deeside and Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve.
Highlights
Rooms: 16 individually styled rooms with Ortho Opulence beds
Dining: Aberdeen Angus steaks, North Sea fish, Highland cheeses
Entertainment: Live music at The Shed
Pet Policy: Dog treats, beds, blankets included
Location: On River Dee, 4 miles from Cairngorms National Park
Parking: Free parking with electric vehicle charging
“My stay at this Aboyne establishment was thoroughly pleasant, marked by the quality of its well-appointed rooms and the genuine warmth of its staff. The culinary offerings, from breakfast through evening meals, were consistently excellent and thoughtfully prepared. It's a place where comfort and attentive service coalesce, making a clear impression.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Hotels3s
Select your room type
The Boat Inn offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Small Standard King Room
2 persons
12 m²
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Small Super King Double
2 persons
11 m²
1 King-size bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Super King Double or Twin Balcony
2 persons
15 m²
1 King-size bed
Balcony
Heating
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
The Boat Inn offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.3/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
Parking
Pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Security
Luggage storage
Ski storage
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Skiing
Hiking
Cycling
Golf course
Darts
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Services
Pet amenities available
Housekeeping
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches
Special diet menus
Business
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Children
Cots
Board games
Children's menu
Spa & Leisure
Live entertainment
Room features
Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
Flat-screen TV
Room decor
Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite
The Boat Inn offers an authentic dining experience that highlights the flavors of the local region, featuring traditional Scottish fare in a cozy, inviting setting. Guests can indulge in hearty breakfasts and feel at home with comforting lunch and dinner options.
Restaurant #1
Traditional local Scottish
Ambiance
Cozy indoor setting that reflects the warmth of Scottish hospitality
Key Offerings
A complimentary cooked-to-order full Scottish breakfast, featuring bacon, sausage, black pudding, eggs, beans, tomatoes, and mushrooms, alongside a diverse buffet with cereals, yoghurts, fresh fruits, and juices. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.
Reservation
No
Daily, breakfast served from 7:30 AM
The Boat Inn Location
Charleston Road, Aboyne, AB34 5EL,
Explore Aboyne
Explore Aboyne
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Belwade Farm
10-minute walk
A sanctuary for horses offering a unique insight into animal welfare. Guided tours available to understand the farm's mission.
Aboyne Castle
10-minute walk
A historic castle with beautiful grounds, rich heritage, and stunning architecture. Ideal for a leisurely stroll and photography.
Cambus O'May Forest
20-minute walk
A picturesque forest featuring walking paths and picnic spots. Known for its serene beauty, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Discover the local attractions near The Boat Inn
Experience significant landmarks near The Boat Inn to enrich your stay with historical and natural attractions.
Perfect for historical exploration: Tomnaverie Stone Circle
Ideal for discovering local history: Boyne Castle
Great for art enthusiasts: The Butterworth Gallery
Well suited for animal lovers: World Horse Welfare Belwade Farm
Ideal for scenic walks: Loch of Aboyne
Best for outdoor leisure: Cambus O'May Forest
Hiking in Cambus O'May Forest
20-minute walk
Hiking trails suitable for all skill levels with breathtaking views. Access via the forest entrance; seasonal guided hikes may be available.
Golfing at Aboyne Golf Club
15-minute walk
A scenic 18-hole course offering stunning views of the countryside. Equipment rental available, book in advance for peak times.
Aboyne Fish & Chips
5-minute walk
Famous for freshly cooked fish and chips in a casual setting, perfect for families. Gluten-free options are also available.
The Boat Inn Restaurant
6-minute walk
Offers traditional Scottish dishes with a modern twist. Known for its warm atmosphere and fresh, local ingredients.
Discover dining options near The Boat Inn
Savor delightful dining options near The Boat Inn that cater to various tastes and occasions.
Great for casual dining: Spider on a Bicycle
Perfect for local cuisine: Restaurant at Loch Kinord Hotel
Coo Cathedral
17-minute walk
A unique venue for concerts and community events featuring stunning acoustics. Regular live performances cater to various tastes.
St Thomas
17-minute walk
A local pub known for its friendly atmosphere and occasional quiz nights. Great for casual socializing and family-friendly fun.
Getting around
City Centre
Aboyne 5 min · 400 m
Airports
Aberdeen (ABZ) 68 min · 45.1 km
Dundee (DND) 152 min · 100.8 km
Bus
Bus stop 2 min · 100 m
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-22:00
Check-out
from 07:00-10:00
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.
Breakfast
The hotel The Boat Inn provides visitors with a free full breakfast.
Pets
Pets are allowed on request.
Number of rooms:
16
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about The Boat Inn from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 529 verified reviews
9.2 /10
Perfect
95 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
9.5/10
Comfort
9.6/10
Facilities
9.3/10
Free WiFi
7.6/10
Location
9.5/10
Staff
9.6/10
Value for money
8.8/10
Pros
Riverfront location
Excellent food
Clean rooms
Cons
Inconsistent shower temperature
Thin walls
Limited breakfast options
Guest reviews
based on 902 reviews
9.2/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About The Boat Inn
What is the check-in and check-out policy at The Boat Inn?
Check-in begins at 15:00, and check-out is by 10:30.
What dining options are available at The Boat Inn?
The restaurant offers a menu featuring locally sourced dishes, including Aberdeen Angus steaks and North Sea fish.
How far is The Boat Inn from the Cairngorms National Park?
The Boat Inn is approximately 6 km from the Cairngorms National Park.
Is there a bar or lounge area at The Boat Inn?
Yes, there is a cozy bar and lounge area where guests can enjoy local ales and spirits.
What amenities are included in the rooms at The Boat Inn?
Rooms include en-suite facilities, Ortho Opulence beds, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and fresh tea and coffee.
How close is The Boat Inn to the center of Aboyne?
The center of Aboyne can be reached within a 5-minute walk.
Is breakfast available at The Boat Inn?
A cooked-to-order breakfast is available for an additional charge of 15 GBP.
What is the closest significant landmark to The Boat Inn?
The Boat Inn is located about 1 km from Aboyne Golf Club.
Is there an outdoor area for activities at The Boat Inn?
Guests can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling, and darts on-site.
What types of rooms does The Boat Inn offer?
The Boat Inn features 16 individually styled rooms, including options with balconies and deep freestanding baths.
Are there any entertainment options at The Boat Inn?
The Boat Inn hosts regular live entertainment events, including music performances and quiz nights.