A cycling scheme designed to make it easier to visit one of Aberdeenshire’s historic homes is to be launched next month.
The initiative, dreamed up for those without access to a car, will allow those keen to explore Haddo House and the grounds the chance to hire a bike and cycle from nearby Tarves.
The village has a bus service, and those involved with the Haddo House and Country Park Regeneration Project have arranged for bike hires to be available from the local heritage centre.
It is less than three miles from the village to Haddo, and would take around 15 to 30 minutes to cycle to.
The initiative will launch on October 7.
Local councillor Paul Johnston, said: “As a member of the Haddo House and Country Park Regeneration Project Forum management group, a main aim for the project is to enhance the visitor experience at Haddo, and to encourage more people to come and visit the House and Country Park.
“By providing a new travel option to those who found travelling to Haddo a challenge in the past, we are providing an opportunity for these people to come to Haddo to experience the excellent attractions that are available.
“We are also pleased to support a worthy charity, Network of Wellbeing, by leasing the bicycles and safety equipment from this organisation.”
Supporting the scheme yesterday was David Fox-Pitt, who is in Aberdeenshire for the Etape Royale event this coming weekend.
Wildfox Events managing director David Fox-Pitt – who is behind the Etape Royale in Aberdeenshire – said: “I think the scheme is an excellent way of not only promoting the house, but encourage people to get out on their bikes.
“It’s a beautiful part of Aberdeenshire; it’s a stunning setting and an ideal location to go for a ride.”
