Undiscovered Scotland

 

Lumsden is an attractive Aberdeenshire village bisected by the A97. To its south lies Strathdon while to its east are the Correen Hills. Significant parts of the history of Scotland tended to pass to the south, with the mighty Kildrummy Castle, just four miles away, playing an important role in the Wars of Independence.

Lumsden itself was founded in 1825 by Harry Leith Lumsden of Auchindoir, on what at the time was barren moorland. The population had reached over 500 by 1881 but has since declined to nearer 400. In modern times, Lumsden is perhaps best know as the home of the Scottish Sculpture Workshop, which was established here in 1979. (Continues below image...)

 

At the heart of Lumsden today is The Square, which has the A97 passing down its western side. A large part of the north side of this is occupied by the village hall, and the south side by a car park. Much of the rest of the village is residential, including an old pub and an old church. Presumably the empty licensed grocer on one corner of the square will follow suit.

The nearest significant settlements for local services are Alford, eight miles to the south-east, and Huntly, fifteen to the north.