Ten things to do on foot in Stonehaven
- Paul Squire
- Mar 26
- 9 min read
Stonehaven is a picturesque coastal town on Scotland’s east coast, famous for its historic sites, stunning scenery, and vibrant local culture. Originally an ancient Pictish settlement, it has experienced reincarnations as a medieval stronghold, a thriving fishing village & trade hub, and, most recently, a charming coastal retreat.
There’s a lot to see and do for visitors and locals alike, and most things are within easy walking distance. Dunnottar Castle is a “must see”, but the town has much more to offer. We’ve picked ten activities we believe will make your trip truly memorable, but we’d love to hear your suggestions too! If you stay focused you can squeeze most of these into a single day, but why not take your time, stay a couple of nights and allow yourselves to enjoy the local vibe!
Follow the coastal path to Dunnottar Castle
One of Scotland’s most stunning and historic castles, Dunnottar Castle sits atop a 160-foot rock and is surrounded on three sides by the North Sea. The stunning cliff-top ruins were once an impregnable fortress of the Earls Marischal, one of the most powerful families in Scotland. The castle has played a crucial role in Scotland’s history including hiding the Scottish Crown Jewels from Oliver Cromwell’s army in the 17th century.
Shorehead Guest House marks the start of the coastal path which begins with a stiff climb (on a surfaced footpath with handrail) out of Stonehaven. However, it soon levels off as the path winds along the coastline past the War Memorial and towards Dunnottar Castle which gradually emerges on the horizon. There are photo-opportunities at every turn and lots of places to sit and rest, or to simply enjoy the views.
Why not return via Dunnottar Woods, a peaceful, fairy-tale-like forest filled with ancient trees, winding paths, and small waterfalls. Inside the woods, look out for historical features and ruins including Lady Kennedy’s Bath, Shell Hoosie and Gallows Hill.
Learn more: dunnottarcastle.co.uk
Explore on a paddle board
Stonehaven Paddleboarding offers lessons and tours as well as an Estonian-style wood fired sauna called Driftwood. Located right next to the beach on Stonehaven Harbour, they’re open all year round from Sunrise till Sunset.
Whether you’re a beginner, looking for an introductory lesson in Stonehaven’s super-safe sheltered Harbour area, or a more experienced Paddler looking to explore the dramatic coastline including scenic sea cliffs, caves, coves, waterfalls and, if you’re lucky, perhaps even an encounter with local wildlife on an organised tour, there’s something for everyone!
All equipment including inflatable boards, paddles, wetsuits, boots and buoyancy aids is provided as well as changing facilities and a place to store your belongings. All you need to do is turn up!
Learn more: shpb.co.uk
Stroll along the boardwalk
The beautiful Stonehaven Beach is just over 1 km long and connects the Stonehaven Harbour to the south and the village of Cowie to north, providing easy access to many of the town’s landmarks along the way. A wooden boardwalk has been constructed, creating a picturesque and often bracing short walk with free parking at either end.
The boardwalk is a great way to panoramic views of the North Sea as well as sea-themed metal sculptures which have been placed along the path. You’ll be able to watch the waves rolling on to the beach as well as seabirds flying overhead. You’ll also be able to see Stonehaven War Memorial from certain points along the walk, overlooking the bay.
With plenty of plenty of spots to sit, relax, and soak in the sea air, the boardwalk is highly accessible. Its flat, level surface make it perfect for people of all ages, including those with prams, wheelchairs or mobility issues.
Learn more: Stonehaven Boardwalk
Take a dip in the open-air swimming pool
Stonehaven open-air pool is the UK's only art deco Olympic sized sea water lido, and Scotland’s oldest outdoor heated seawater pool.
Opened in 1934 following a poll of Stonehaven householders, it immediately became a popular attraction but not all the feedback from the first season was positive so, for the 1935 season, not only was the sea water circulated, filtered and disinfected, it was also heated!
It remains a focal point of Stonehaven’s summers to this day. The pool is open from late May to early September and is heated to around 29°C (84°F).
The pool offers moonlight swims in the high season where you can swim beneath the stars to some fun disco music, as well as cold-water swimming sessions during the off season. Also look out for the fun Aqua Ceilidh during the Stonehaven Folk Festival!
Learn more: stonehavenopenairpool.co.uk
Visit the War memorial
Sitting on Black Hill just south of the town, and overlooking Stonehaven, the town’s war memorial resembles a ruined Greek temple and offers stunning panoramic views of the coastline.
Unveiled in 1923, and designed by John Ellis, an architect from Aberdeen, it is often thought of as being in a poor state of repair, but this is the way it was designed to look – as unfinished or ruined as the lives of those it commemorates. The main bulk of the memorial is sandstone and it was quarried locally, more or less immediately below where the memorial sits.
Around the outside of the lintels are the names of some of the outstanding battles of the First World War; Mons, Jutland, Gallipoli, Zeebrugge, Marne, Somme, Vimy and Ypres. On the inside of the lintels is cut a quotation from Sankey’s ‘Student in Arms’.
Learn more: Stonehaven War Memorial
Explore the Market Square (and the “New Town”)
Everywhere in Stonehaven is within easy walking distance, however the Market Square is the heart of the town offering a blend of history, local charm, and community activity.
Just a short walk from the beach, boardwalk, and harbour, it is a bustling yet relaxed space, surrounded by independent shops, cafés, restaurants, and local businesses. The square itself often has benches and seating areas, making it a great spot to pause and take in the town’s lively but welcoming feel.
Stonehaven has something for everyone including gift shops (with local crafts, souvenirs, and unique Scottish goods), bakeries & cafés (perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely coffee), boutiques & clothing stores, barbers, beauty salons, small galleries and, of course, a selection of local bars.
On the first Saturday of each month (exc. January & June) it hosts the Stonehaven Farmers & Produce Market. The market offers a great opportunity to buy fresh produce, artisan foods, crafts, and gifts from local suppliers.
On the first Saturday of June, the Market Square plays host to the world-famous Feein’ Market (next one scheduled for 7th June 2025). This promises the Farmer’s Market on steroids with a packed programme of acts and events.
Learn more: Market Square
Learn more: Stonehaven Farmer’s Market
Learn more: feeinmarket.org.uk
Explore the coast by boat
Stonehaven harbour is home to Aberdeen & Stonehaven Yacht Club. Their clubhouse is an early 19th century 4-storey, 3-bay former warehouse (Grade C listed) and is the centre of activity for the club throughout the summer months.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not strap-on your sea-legs and get a unique sea-level perspective of the Aberdeenshire coastline by hiring a boat from Stonehaven harbour. A range of destinations, activities and durations are available. Options include high-speed RIB tours to Dunnottar Castle, fishing trips, or scenic coastal cruises to explore hidden coves, cliffs, sea caves, and wildlife hotspots.
Learn more: Aberdeen & Stonehaven Yacht Club
Learn more: Stonehaven Boat Trips & Shellfish
Go back in time in the Tolbooth Museum
The Tolbooth is Stonehaven’s oldest building, dating back to the late 16th century. Its original purpose was to act as a storehouse during the building of Dunnottar Castle. However, it became a tolbooth in 1600, following an Act of Parliament. After 1624, the town business functions were conducted on the upper level, with the ground floor being used as a prison. The courthouse and prison were relocated in 1767, and the building became a storehouse again.
The building was renovated in the 1960’s and re-opened by Her Majesty the Queen Mother. Today, the lower level serves as a family-friendly museum showcasing the town’s rich heritage while the upper level is a top-quality seafood restaurant offering stunning views over the harbour.
Learn more: stonehaventolbooth.co.uk
Learn more: thetolboothrestaurant.co.uk
Sample the local cuisine
Stonehaven boasts a diverse culinary scene, offering a variety of dining experiences to suit different tastes and preferences.
Local seafood naturally features on many of the menus. In the harbour area, popular eateries include The Tolbooth Restaurant, The Captain’s Table at the Ship Inn and The Marine Hotel. For an al fresco experience, why not try The Seafood Bothy located on the harbour wall.
At the southern end of boardwalk, you will find two popular establishments; The Bay Fish & Chips offers award-winning fish and chips which you can eat while enjoying sea views, and next door, you can find Aunty Betty’s ice Cream. Aunty Betty’s is a legendary ice cream spot, known for its Scottish flavours, generous portions and fun toppings. Together, they make the perfect seaside treat!
Stonehaven has the dubious distinction of being the birthplace of the Deep-Fried Mars Bar. It was invented The Haven Chip Bar (now known as The Carron Fish Bar) in the 1990s, initially a Scottish food curiosity that has since gained worldwide fame!
One of the most remarkable restaurant environments in Stonehaven is the grade 2 listed, art deco modern Indian restaurant, Carron to Mumbai. The light and airy room retains all the period art deco features from the Picasso mirror to the trademark deco bow front window, providing a unique space in which to eat.
Plan ahead and book a table well in advance as the restaurants fill up quickly, especially on a sunny day!
Learn more: The Tolbooth Restaurant
Learn more: The Captain’s Table at the Ship Inn
Learn more: The Marine Hotel
Learn more: The Seafood Bothy
Learn more: The Bay Fish & Chips
Learn more: Aunty Betty’s Ice Cream
Learn more: The Carron Fish Bar
Learn more: Carron to Mumbai
Put your feet up at the Harbour
There’s nothing we enjoy more after a hard day than relaxing with a cold beverage while looking out over one of the prettiest harbours in Britain. Stonehaven harbour is a charming spot to wind-down, enjoy the sea air (dress appropriately so you can enjoy it whatever the weather has to offer!) and watch the world go by.
There are two excellent bars with outside seating on the harbour front, and just a few steps from the Shorehead Guest House:
The Ship Inn was built in 1771. As one of the oldest inns on this stretch of the Aberdeenshire coastline, you’ll find nods to Stonehaven’s rich nautical history throughout the bar. It offers a wide range of draught beers and boasts a selection of over 100 malt whiskies.
A relative latecomer, The Marine Hotel was built in 1884. Home to Six° North Brewery, it won the best Real Ale Bar in Scotland in 2008 and in Aberdeenshire every year from 2008 to the present day. It offers a tempting range of real ales and craft beers on tap as well as wide variety of bottle-conditioned Belgian beers!
Learn more: The Ship Inn Lounge Bar
Learn more: The Marine Hotel
So those are our ten suggestions of things to do. We hope you enjoy them! We’d love to hear your feedback and additional suggestions too!
As a bonus item, and one you can combine with other activities on the list, we suggest you catch a sunrise or sunset over the North Sea. The Stonehaven coastline offers some of the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets in Scotland, and each of them is unique. Some of the best spots to enjoy the moments are Dunnottar Castle, the harbour, or the beach.
About Stonehaven
Stonehaven’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider region. The city of Aberdeen, with its museums, galleries, and shopping, is only a short drive or train ride away. The Cairngorms National Park, about an hour’s drive west, offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail, with its scenic villages and cliffs, is also within easy reach. The options for day trips are almost endless!
Located about 15 miles south of Aberdeen, Stonehaven is easily accessible by car via the A90. It is also well served by regular public transport; the train station has regular services from Aberdeen, taking about 15 minutes, as well as connections from Edinburgh and Glasgow. There are also frequent buses from Aberdeen. Aberdeen International Airport is the nearest airport, about a 30-minute drive away.
Kommentare