Things To Do
in Stonehaven
Stonehaven is a picturesque coastal town located in northeastern Scotland, known for its stunning cliffs and scenic harbor. The town is famous for its iconic Dunnottar Castle, which sits atop a dramatic cliff overlooking the North Sea. Visitors can enjoy exploring the historic streets, browsing local shops and enjoying fresh seafood at the town's restaurants.
With its charming atmosphere and natural beauty, Stonehaven is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Dunnottar Castle, an iconic ruin perched on a cliff. Take in the stunning views of the North Sea as you explore the historic site.
Enjoy lunch at a local café before wandering around the charming streets of Stonehaven. Visit the Stonehaven Harbour and watch the fishing boats come in.
Relax with a stroll along the beach at sunset. Wind down with a hearty dinner at a local restaurant specializing in seafood.
Visit the Stonehaven Tolbooth Museum to learn about the town's history. This small museum showcases local artifacts and interesting exhibits.
Take a scenic walk to the nearby Fowlsheugh Nature Reserve, a designated site for bird watching. Enjoy the natural beauty and listen to the sounds of the sea and birds.
Have dinner at a cozy bistro in town. Try some traditional Scottish dishes while enjoying the warm atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and access to beaches
- Rich history, with historic sites like Stonehaven Castle
- Strong sense of community and local events
- Variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling
- Good transport links to Aberdeen and surrounding areas
- Limited shopping and entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Potentially harsh weather conditions, especially in winter
- Risk of being too quiet for those seeking a vibrant nightlife
- Job opportunities may be limited, especially in specialized fields
- Higher property prices relative to some other rural areas in Scotland
Best Activities in Stonehaven
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic walks along Stonehaven's beautiful sandy beach, taking in the views of the North Sea.
Explore the historic ruins of Dunnottar Castle, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, offering stunning views and rich history.
Try your hand at fishing from the harbour or join a local fishing tour to catch a variety of fish.
Experience kayaking along the coast, with opportunities to spot marine wildlife and enjoy the tranquil waters.
Take advantage of the beautiful landscapes by hiking the trails in the nearby hills, offering various routes for different skill levels.
Play a round of golf at the Stonehaven Golf Club, which features picturesque views and challenging holes.
Ride along the coastal paths for a unique perspective of the scenery and the fresh sea air.
Join a guided tour or venture on your own to spot local wildlife, including seabirds and seals.
Tours
Uncover the best of Stonehaven with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Stonehaven
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic medieval fortress perched on a cliff overlooking the North Sea, providing stunning views and a picturesque backdrop for photos.
A beautiful sandy beach with views of the coastline and picturesque sunsets, perfect for capturing scenic shots.
A charming harbour with colorful fishing boats and seaside scenery, ideal for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
The ruins of a historic castle offering elevated views of the coastline and dramatic seascapes, great for adventurous photographers.
A hill that provides panoramic views over Stonehaven and beyond, making it an excellent spot for landscape photography.
Narrow cobbled streets and traditional stone buildings create an atmospheric setting for capturing the charm of Stonehaven.
An outdoor pool by the sea, providing unique photo opportunities, especially with the ocean waves crashing against the wall.
A historic church with scenic surroundings, offering great views of the countryside and the coastline.
Food in Stonehaven
Stonehaven Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. Don't miss it at The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Oak-smoked haddock, a local delicacy. Try it at The Bay Fish and Chips shop.
Flaky pastry filled with minced beef, onions, and spices. Find this savory treat at Aunty Betty’s Tearoom.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Stonehaven better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A monthly market showcasing local produce, artisanal cheeses, and freshly baked goods. It's a great place to explore the local food scene.
Located at the harbor, this food truck offers delectable fresh seafood including crab sandwiches and fish tacos.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always be polite and use 'please' and 'thank you' when interacting with locals. Stonehaven, like much of the UK, values courteous behavior.
Stonehaven is rich in history, so show respect when visiting historical sites and be mindful of local customs and traditions that are important to the community.
Maintain a reasonable amount of personal space during conversations. The British generally value personal space and may feel uncomfortable if approached too closely.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Stonehaven with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Stonehaven
Ensure a smooth experience
In Stonehaven, as in much of the UK, tipping is generally considered a discretionary practice. It is common to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. In pubs, it is typical to round up the bill when paying. Tipping taxi drivers is also customary, often rounding up to the nearest pound. However, tipping is not as obligatory as in some other countries, and locals may not tip in places where service has been poor.
Payment practices in Stonehaven are similar to those found across the UK. Most establishments accept card payments, with contactless payment becoming increasingly popular. Cash is still used, especially in smaller shops and markets. Some larger restaurants and hotels may add a service charge to the bill, which is usually noted on the menu or bill. Customers can generally expect to pay their bills at the table in restaurants or at the counter in cafes.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Stonehaven.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Stonehaven. The weather begins to warm up, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Expect blooming flowers, scenic coastal walks, and rejuvenated wildlife. Spring also sees fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring local attractions like Dunnottar Castle.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Stonehaven, with average temperatures between 12°C to 18°C. Visitors can enjoy longer daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and swimming. Expect lively festivals, events, and bustling local markets, but be prepared for more crowds and higher accommodation prices.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures ranging from 7°C to 14°C and stunning fall foliage. This season offers a more tranquil experience, making it perfect for photography and nature walks. Stonehaven's coastal scenery is particularly picturesque around this time, and you'll find fewer tourists and off-peak pricing.
Winter (December to February) in Stonehaven can be cold with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 7°C. Expect shorter days and potential snow, making it a quieter time to visit. While some attractions may have reduced hours, the winter landscape offers a unique charm, and it's a great time for cozy visits to local pubs and cafés, as well as exploring holiday events.
Stonehaven at Night
Hiking in Stonehaven
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque trail that follows the coastline from Stonehaven to Dunnottar Castle, offering stunning sea views and opportunities to explore local wildlife.
Although primarily a historic site, the area surrounding Dunnottar Castle provides excellent walking paths with dramatic cliffs and ocean views.
A lesser-known hiking area providing a peaceful, scenic walk through moorland and forest, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
A beautiful countryside area near Stonehaven that offers various trails through woodlands and riverside paths, perfect for a day hike.
Located nearby, this reserve features cliffs and sea stacks with trails that showcase diverse birdlife and breathtaking coastal scenery.
A coastal path linking the village of Catterline to Stonehaven, offering panoramic views of the North Sea and rugged coastline.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Stonehaven through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Stonehaven by plane.
The main international airport serving Aberdeen, located approximately 16.5 miles from Stonehaven.
Scotland's busiest airport, located around 128 miles from Stonehaven.
One of the largest airports in Scotland, situated approximately 150 miles from Stonehaven.
Located about 103 miles from Stonehaven, serving domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 440 miles from Stonehaven, this airport operates a wide range of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Stonehaven, predominantly of British ancestry.
Includes individuals from various European countries and other white ethnicities.
Includes individuals of Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian origins.
Individuals who identify with more than one ethnic group.
Includes individuals of African, Caribbean, and other Black heritages.
Includes various other ethnic backgrounds not classified above.
The Soul of Stonehaven
Discover the essence of Stonehaven through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Stonehaven, with local clubs and teams representing the town in various leagues.
Rugby is also well-loved in Stonehaven, with community teams and events bringing enthusiasts together.
Stonehaven boasts scenic golf courses, making golf a favored pastime for both locals and visitors.
Running and jogging along the picturesque coastal paths and parks in Stonehaven is a popular activity.
Cricket has a dedicated following in the area, with local clubs organizing matches throughout the season.
Cycling, both on roads and trails, is a favorite activity in Stonehaven, particularly given the town's scenic routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stonehaven.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many establishments in Stonehaven offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as the vegan haggis at The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant and the vegetarian haggis at The Marine Hotel.
Several restaurants and cafes in Stonehaven provide gluten-free choices, including gluten-free fish and chips at The Carron Fish Bar.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Stonehaven with these cultural adventures.
