Things To Do
in Stonehaven
Stonehaven is a scenic seaside town in Aberdeenshire, about 15 miles south of Aberdeen, famed for its harbour, dramatic sea cliffs, and proximity to Dunnottar Castle. The town blends maritime heritage with cosy pubs, seafood eateries, and easy coastal walks along the North Sea. A gateway to rugged coastal scenery, it's a friendly base for day trips and wildlife sightings, especially seals at the beaches and coves.
Visitors can explore historic streets, enjoy fresh seafood, and hike the cliff-top paths offering dramatic Atlantic views.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Stonehaven, a charming coastal town, and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Harbour, soaking in the views of fishing boats and the rugged coastline. Grab a coffee at a local café to fuel your exploration.
Visit the stunning Dunnottar Castle, perched on a cliff with dramatic views. Spend time wandering through the castle grounds, taking photographs, and learning about its rich history. Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch on the nearby beach, surrounded by natural beauty.
Dine at one of Stonehaven's seafood restaurants, sampling fresh catch from the North Sea. As the sun sets, take a walk along the beach to watch the evening light reflect on the water. Unwind with a drink at a local pub, listening to live music or simply enjoying the atmosphere.
Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at a cozy café. After refueling, embark on a coastal walk along the stunning cliff paths that offer breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscapes. Look out for local wildlife along the way, including seabirds and seals.
Return to Stonehaven and visit the Stonehaven Tolbooth Museum to learn about the town’s history. Following the museum, indulge in lunch at a local eatery, where you can taste traditional Scottish delicacies. Stroll through the town center and explore unique shops and galleries.
Savor a gourmet dinner at a renowned restaurant, trying specialties like Cullen Skink or haggis. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the waterfront, allowing the sound of the waves to enhance your evening experience. End the night with a whiskey tasting session at a local distillery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕️Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer at a pub | $4-7 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or B&B per night | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and easy access to Dunnottar Castle
- Fresh seafood and friendly, compact town atmosphere
- Windy and occasionally chilly by the sea
- Peak-season crowds can reduce quiet moments in town
Places to Visit in Stonehaven
Visit one of these nice places.
Cliff-top ruins with dramatic sea views and rugged coastline, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful boats and the North Sea glow during golden hour near the quay.
A natural sea arch sculpted by waves, perfect for dramatic seascapes.
Panoramic views of the North Sea and sea stacks along the coastline.
Food in Stonehaven
Stonehaven Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy smoked haddock soup, traditionally served with crusty bread in pubs and cafes.
Must-Try!
A warming potato, onion and meat dish simmered slowly—perfect for a pub lunch.
Assorted fish, shellfish, and prawns sourced from the harbour, ideal for sharing with sea views.
A classic Scottish combination often available in pubs and bistros.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seafood stalls offering freshly landed fish and shellfish along the quay.
Occasional markets in nearby towns with local meat, dairy, and produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue politely, follow seating cues, and enjoy conversations with locals. A friendly, relaxed attitude is common.
In emergencies, dial 999; respond calmly and follow instructions of responders.
Safety
Tipping in Stonehaven
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated in restaurants and pubs, typically 10-15% if service isn’t included.
Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; carry cash for market stalls and smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days and milder weather make coastal walks and harbour dining very pleasant; pack a light layer for sea breeze.
Brisk, windy days with turning foliage; good for wildlife watching and dramatic coastal light.
Shorter days with potential storms and strong winds; plan for shorter but still memorable walks.
Wildflowers along cliff paths and seabird activity return; typically unsettled but often rewarding for walkers.
Stonehaven at Night
Hiking in Stonehaven
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Breathtaking clifftop route from Stonehaven toward the castle with sea views.
Gentle trails with views over the bay and surrounding woodland.
Forest hikes with varied terrain suitable for longer day trips.
Airports
How to reach Stonehaven by plane.
Closest international airport, about 20–30 miles north with frequent flights and good road/train links.
A longer journey but serves many UK and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and harbour workers.
Visitors drawn to Dunnottar Castle, the harbour, and coastal walks.
Hospitality and tourism staff during summer and holiday periods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in local pubs and community leagues.
Seaside links courses attract players for scenic rounds.
Coastal and inland trails are regularly enjoyed by residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stonehaven.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafés offer veggie options; ask about soups, veggie pies, and salads.