Things To Do
in Peterhead
Peterhead is a coastal town located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Known as the largest white fish port in Europe, it has a strong fishing industry and a bustling harbor. The town also boasts beautiful sandy beaches and stunning cliffs, offering picturesque views of the North Sea.
With a rich maritime history and charming coastal charm, Peterhead is a popular destination for visitors seeking a taste of traditional Scottish culture.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local cafe, then head to the shore for a scenic walk. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze while taking in the stunning views of the coastline.
Visit the Peterhead Maritime Heritage Centre to learn about the town's rich maritime history. You can also take a boat tour if weather permits, to see local wildlife.
Dine at a seaside restaurant specializing in fresh seafood. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the water as the sun sets.
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Peterhead Prison Museum. Learn about its storied past and the significant role it played in the community.
Explore the ruins of nearby Kinnaird Head Castle and the associated Lighthouse, showcasing breathtaking ocean views. Spend some time enjoying a picnic in the castle grounds.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Scottish pub. Try local dishes while soaking in the cozy atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic coastal views and beautiful beaches
- Rich historical significance with various local landmarks
- Strong community spirit and friendly atmosphere
- Access to outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and water sports
- Growing economy with opportunities in renewable energy and tourism
- Limited job opportunities in certain industries
- Milder winter weather may be less appealing to some
- Potential for high levels of rain and overcast days
- Limited amenities and shopping options compared to larger towns
- Transportation links may be less frequent or accessible
Best Activities in Peterhead
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy stunning views of the North Sea while walking along the coastal path that stretches around Peterhead, perfect for both leisurely strolls and more extended hikes.
Explore the historic Peterhead Lighthouse, which is one of the oldest in Scotland, and enjoy the surrounding areas that offer great spots for photography and picnicking.
Join a local fishing charter for a day out at sea, where you can try your hand at catching fish while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful maritime scenery.
Take a short trip to nearby Dunottar Castle to explore the ruins and hike the surrounding cliffs, offering breathtaking views along the coast.
Engage in a variety of outdoor sports such as tennis, football, and basketball at the Peterhead Sports Centre, which has facilities for both casual and competitive play.
Tours
Uncover the best of Peterhead with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Peterhead
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the coastline and North Sea, great for photos at sunset.
Scenic spot with a picturesque harbor, ideal for capturing boats and coastal landscapes.
Beautiful beach area with tranquil surroundings, perfect for coastal photography.
Food in Peterhead
Peterhead Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, often flavored with parsley. Best enjoyed at The Waverley Hotel or The Albert Hotel.
Must-Try!
A buttery, flaky pastry often eaten at breakfast. For the best rowies, visit Buchanans Bakery.
Sample tender and flavorful local lamb dishes at The Waterside Farm or The Harbour Spring.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Peterhead better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
For a true taste of the ocean, head to the fish market to sample the freshest catches or take some seafood to prepare at home.
Discover locally produced meats, cheeses, and baked goods, as well as homemade street foods such as Scotch eggs and artisanal chocolates.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Peterhead, as in much of the UK, politeness is highly valued. Using 'please', 'thank you', and 'excuse me' in conversations is expected and reflects respect toward others.
Queuing or standing in line patiently is a cultural norm in Peterhead. It's considered rude to push in or skip the queue, whether at shops, public transport, or other public places.
Familiarizing oneself with local dialect and terminology can enhance interactions. Understanding colloquial terms or phrases commonly used in the area shows respect and a willingness to engage with the local culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Peterhead with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Peterhead
Ensure a smooth experience
In Peterhead and the broader UK, tipping is generally considered discretionary and is often given for good service in restaurants, cafes, and bars. The customary amount is around 10-15% of the bill if service is not included. In some places, it is common to leave a small tip for taxi drivers as well.
Payment methods in Peterhead are quite diverse, with cash, debit/credit cards, and contactless payments being widely accepted. Many establishments also offer mobile payment options. It is common for pubs and restaurants to ask for payment at the table or at the counter, and some places may have a minimum spend for card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Peterhead.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a good time to visit Peterhead as the weather is starting to warm up and the town is coming to life with blooming flowers and longer daylight hours. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the surrounding countryside.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Peterhead, with longer days, warm temperatures, and plenty of events and festivals. It's an ideal time for beach activities, fishing, and enjoying the local seafood.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage to Peterhead. It's a quieter time to visit, perfect for those who enjoy peaceful walks, birdwatching, and exploring historical sites without the summer crowds.
Winter in Peterhead can be cold and windy, but it also offers a unique charm with festive events, winter walks along the coast, and the opportunity to experience traditional Scottish celebrations like Hogmanay. It's a great time for those who enjoy a quiet, cozy atmosphere.
Peterhead at Night
Hiking in Peterhead
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal area offering beautiful views and various trails along the beach and cliffs.
A nature reserve with stunning cliff-top trails overlooking the sea, rich in wildlife and unique geological features.
A picturesque spot to hike along the coastal paths near the lighthouse, with opportunities for birdwatching.
While primarily a golf course, the surrounding area has paths that are great for walking and enjoying the scenery.
Explore the trails around the museum, which provide insight into the local history while allowing for pleasant walks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Peterhead through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Peterhead by plane.
The nearest major international airport, located approximately 28 miles from Peterhead, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
Located around 90 miles southwest of Peterhead, this airport serves as a gateway to the Highlands and offers various domestic and limited international flights.
Approximately 120 miles to the south of Peterhead, this is one of the busiest airports in Scotland, providing a wide range of domestic and international services.
About 150 miles southwest of Peterhead, this major airport offers extensive international connections along with numerous domestic flights.
Situated around 460 miles southeast of Peterhead, this airport serves as a major base for low-cost airlines, with many international flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic in Peterhead, comprising individuals of British descent.
Includes individuals from European countries and other white ethnic backgrounds.
Includes people of South Asian, East Asian, and Southeast Asian descent.
Individuals identifying with more than one ethnic group.
This group includes individuals of African, Caribbean, or mixed black origins.
A small demographic group representing various other ethnic identities.
The Soul of Peterhead
Discover the essence of Peterhead through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Peterhead, with local clubs and a strong community following.
Rugby has a passionate following in Peterhead, with local teams competing in various leagues.
Cricket is played at amateur levels in Peterhead, with local clubs and community engagement.
Swimming is popular in Peterhead, supported by local swimming clubs and facilities.
Athletics is promoted through local events and clubs, encouraging participation from all ages.
Golf is enjoyed in Peterhead, with several courses nearby attracting both locals and visitors.
Tennis has a presence in Peterhead with local courts and tennis clubs facilitating play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Peterhead.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Scottish cuisine often revolves around meat and fish, many eateries in Peterhead provide vegetarian and vegan choices, including creative salads and plant-based takes on local recipes.
Several establishments in Peterhead cater to gluten-free diets, offering dishes such as fresh seafood, salads, and gluten-free baked goods.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Peterhead with these cultural adventures.
