Stonehaven

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Stonehaven's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Coastal Walk and Local Cuisine
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Castles and History
morning
:

Take a scenic drive to the nearby Crathes Castle, surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle, taking in its stunning architecture and fascinating stories from history. Spend time exploring the gardens for a tranquil start to the day.

afternoon
:

Head back to Stonehaven for lunch at a bistro that highlights local produce. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Banchory, where you can take part in outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling through the Deeside countryside. Capture the beautiful landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.

evening
:

Return to Stonehaven and unwind with a dinner of local fare. After dinner, consider taking part in a cultural event or festival if one is taking place during your visit. Enjoy a late-night walk, basking in the town's serene atmosphere under the stars.

day 4
Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Begin the day with a leisurely breakfast and then venture to the nearby Fowlsheugh Nature Reserve for a morning of bird watching. Explore the cliffs and admire the stunning coastal scenery while observing various seabirds in their natural habitat. The fresh sea air will invigorate you as you explore this natural treasure.

afternoon
:

Return to Stonehaven for lunch at a quaint café, followed by a visit to the local art gallery. Spend time appreciating works by local artists and perhaps even finding a unique souvenir to take home. Take a leisurely stroll through the lush greens of Mineral Well Park afterward.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with views of the harbor, soaking in the twilight ambiance. Following dinner, take part in a guided ghost tour to learn about the town's mysterious past. Share your spooky tales over drinks at a local bar with fellow travelers.

day 5
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the local farmer's market to experience Stonehaven's vibrant community spirit. Sample fresh produce, artisanal products, and interact with local vendors to get a taste of everyday life in the town. Enjoy a light breakfast slowly while mingling with the locals.

afternoon
:

Take a workshop in a local craft or cooking class, learning traditional Scottish skills. Engage with artisans as they share their passionate stories behind their crafts. After your class, enjoy a light lunch at the venue featuring dishes you learned to prepare.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant that offers a traditional Scottish ceilidh, complete with music and dancing. After dinner, participate in the festivities and dance the night away with locals and fellow travelers. Wind down with a nightcap while reflecting on the memorable experiences of the day.

day 6
Adventure Day
morning
:

Set off for an early morning kayaking adventure along the coast, guided by an experienced instructor. Paddle through the clear waters, discovering hidden coves and taking in the breathtaking scenery. This exhilarating start will make you feel alive and connected with nature.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch on the beach after your kayaking session. Spend the afternoon at leisure, either relaxing on the beach or exploring the local cliffs on foot for some deeper immersion into the beautiful surroundings. Alternatively, try your hand at rock climbing with local adventurers guiding the ropes.

evening
:

Return to Stonehaven for a well-deserved dinner at a gastropub featuring a fusion of traditional and modern dishes. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the town as you mingle with fellow diners. End the night with a stargazing session or a peaceful moment by the waterside.

day 7
Relaxation and Reflection
morning
:

Start with a peaceful morning yoga session on the beach, surrounded by serene sounds of the waves. Engage in some mindfulness meditation to reflect on your journey so far. Enjoy a light breakfast from a local café afterward, perhaps indulging in homemade pastries.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Stonehaven Open Air Pool, taking a relaxing dip while enjoying the picturesque scenery. If the weather permits, enjoy sunbathing on the beach or participate in outdoor games with locals. Follow up with a leisurely lunch at a nearby eatery.

evening
:

Attend a farewell dinner at a special location, perhaps a cozy restaurant with local charm. Share memories with friends or loved ones about your experiences while celebrating your time in Stonehaven. Conclude the day with a night walk along the shoreline, cherishing the beauty of the Scottish coast.

day 8
Departure and Last-Minute Adventures
morning
:

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, taking time to reflect on the enriching experiences during your stay. Pack your bags and check out of your accommodations but take note of some last-minute sites you want to revisit. Stop by a local shop for souvenirs to remember your visit.

afternoon
:

Before heading out, visit any last attractions you might have missed, such as the local market for final treasures or the beach for one last dip. You could also indulge in a lovely lunch at a favorite spot, reminiscing about your delightful time in Stonehaven. Consider visiting a local art gallery or shop one final time to pick up a memento.

evening
:

Depart Stonehaven with a heart full of memories and a camera full of photographs. Reflect on the incredible time spent in this coastal gem on your journey home. Plan to return soon, as the beauty and warmth of Stonehaven will surely beckon you back.

Discover Stonehaven

Read more in our Stonehaven 2025 Travel Guide.

Stonehaven Travel Guide