Eat, drink and shop

The Cairngorms National Park is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Local chefs, farmers, food producers and retailers make the most of the region's natural bounty using traditional and foraged ingredients, such as oats and wild garlic, coupled with modern techniques. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, enjoying a meal here connects you to the land and its rich culinary heritage.

Whether you want to do your weekly shop, eat out, or take home a traditional foodstuff as a tasty souvenir, there’s no end of places to fill your basket. The bigger towns and villages - such as Aviemore, Grantown-on-Spey and Ballater - are shopping and eating hubs, but many of the smaller villages are rich in independent outfits which sell everything from freshly roasted coffee to perfectly aged cheese.

• Shopping in the park Liam Anderstrem

  

  
• Enjoying a meal Ed Smith

  

  
• Time for ice cream Ed Smith

  

  

Regional specialities and buying local

​​​Venison, whisky and beef from Highland cattle and rare breeds are the foodie big hitters here but dig a little deeper and you’ll find there’s so much more to enjoy. The National Park is home to award-winning beer and gin producers, busy bakeries and patisseries, cheese makers, bees making blossom and heather honey, and diverse local fruits and vegetables. Buying local – at delis, shops or farmer’s markets – is better for the environment and makes a meaningful difference to the local economy.

Places to eat and drink

There are so many great places to eat and drink in the National Park. From fine dining in a restaurant to a relaxed pub dinner – and everything in between – you will find a venue for every occasion. There are fantastic local cafes, coffee shops and takeaways to treat your tastebuds. For something different, hire one of the region’s private chefs to design a bespoke menu to feast upon in your home or holiday let.

Shopping

Of course, it’s not only food on offer. Travel through the National Park and you’ll pass shops that fulfil every need (and want). Occasion, everyday and outdoor clothing, gifts, household items, furniture, antiques…the list goes on. Local makers and artists keep the galleries and craft shops alive with artwork of every description, much of it inspired by the stunning surrounding landscapes.