From derelict farm buildings on the edge of Banchory to a thriving area focused on culture, arts, sport and recreation, Woodend at Crathes is a unique area on Leys Estate.

Working in conjunction with Scottish Land & Estates, we were delighted to welcome more than 30 individuals from across Scotland to a special Walk & Talk event at Woodend at Crathes at the beginning of September.

The event coincided with the launch of the area’s own brand as we near the completion of infrastructure work in the area.

Kicking off the event, David Smart delivered a presentation on Placemaking and the organic and planned growth of Woodend at Crathes, including the challenges this presented Leys Estate with – from infrastructure to the changing needs of tenants and balancing very different business’ and enterprises.

Joining our guests were representatives from Deeside Rugby Club, The Barn and The Movement Bothy who had the opportunity to speak about the growth of their organisations at Woodend at Crathes, how they have worked with Leys Estate to get to where they are in 2023. Their honest reflections also included the challenges they have faced and their hopes for the future of Woodend at Crathes.

Following the presentation and lively Q&A, the group enjoyed a tour of the are on foot. As part of this the group visited Buchanan Bistro, fold, The Barn and wild garden, hearing first hand from the team at The Barn about the charity’s work and journey to create one of the most popular art and culture venues in the area. The tour then took the group to Woodend Allotments, which extends to almost 5 acres and provides 120 allotments for members of the public and organisations.

The Movement Bothy team then welcomed us to their facility giving the group an insight into their growth from providing crucial outdoor exercise and engagement for children during the pandemic to hosting more than 20 classes a week at ‘The Bothy’.

The group then had the opportunity to view the site of Woodend Sustainable Homes where work was commencing on one of the first plots. This gave the group the opportunity to find out more about the approach taken to the project by Leys Estate Group and AJC Homes.

Thank you to Deeside Rugby Club for allowing us to utilise their Clubhouse facilities, for Buchanan Bistro for providing fantastic catering and to everyone to participated in the lively and thought-provoking discussions.