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Stonehaven, Scotland is an idyllic seaside retreat. Famous for its ancient coastal castle and quaint village appeal, it’s a fabulous day trip destination. We made the journey to Stonehaven from Aberdeen, but it’s an essential stop on any East Coast Scotland road trip.
Like many other travelers, the Dunnottar Castle is what first caught our attention. However, we quickly realized that there is more in the area than a single sight. After compiling a list of the best things to do in Stonehaven, we set off on a full day excursion.
6 Things To Do in Stonehaven, Scotland in a Day
As most visitors will be breezing through, we have organized our list of the Top Things To Do Stonehaven into a one-day itinerary.
The plan squeezes in all the fun attractions and must-see sights. At the end of the article, we cover logistics – like how to get there – and share a helpful map, too.
#1 See the Chapel of St. Mary and St. Nathalan
We started our one day in Stonehaven with a coastal walk to the north. The clifftop path leads through heather and brush to the crumbling ruins of the Chapel of St. Mary and St. Nathalan.
The small stone church was built in the year 1292. Although it lacks a roof and part of the walls are missing, it is a Stonehaven must-see. In the graveyard surrounding the chapel, tombstones lean at odd angles, some baring 18th century dates.
Before retracing our footsteps and heading back into town, we took in the marvelous sea views from the elevated perch. Our gaze stretched across the landscape and out into the deep blue waters of the North Sea.
#2 Tour Stonehaven Town (and Lunch)
The town of Stonehaven hosts just a handful of sights. We spent about an hour sauntering along picturesque streets and strolling the waterfront Promenade.
The top things to see in the Old Town are the stone dwellings, a few historic churches and the traditional Town Hall, which often hosts markets and events. Visitors can also find local art, handicrafts and souvenirs in Stonehaven’s boutique shops.
Our stomachs were grumbling before midday, so we picked up delicious deli sandwiches from Graingers on Evan Street. They also sell an array of local food products, so be sure to pop in!
Sandwiches in hand, we headed for Stonehaven Beach to enjoy a picnic lunch. Aunt Betty’s Ice Cream Shop on the Promenade is the place for a sweet treat after any meal!
#3 Go to Stonehaven Harbour and Tolbooth Museum
Situated on the south side of town, the harbor in Stonehaven is easy to reach via the shoreline boardwalk. Along the route, quirky metal artworks and model ships are on display.
The harbor is home to a variety of small watercraft – and since the tide was out, kids and families played on the sandy embankment and in the cool water. Braver teenagers jumped into the sea from the Old Pier, while others balanced on paddleboards inside the protected marina.
While tempted to join in the water activities, we stepped inside the eccentric, cluttered and free Stonehaven Tolbooth Museum instead.
The three-room space is absolutely jam packed with artifacts and intriguing exhibits about the history of Stonehaven. In addition to the displays – everything from fossils to fishing gear to kitchen outfits – the friendly staff entertain visitors with stories of the past.
#4 Take the Dunnottar Castle Coastal Walk
In the early afternoon we embarked on an Aberdeenshire Hike south along the coast toward the renowned Stonehaven castle. The trailhead is located right behind and above the harbor. After a short uphill trek, there’s a place to catch your breath and take in the views from above.
As the well-maintained path continues to the south, walkers can opt to detour on a slightly inclined trail to the top of Black Hill and the Stonehaven War Memorial. Built in the style of a Greek temple, the memorial is dedicated to soldiers who died in World War I and II.
After visiting the memorial, we retraced our steps back to the main path and continued our Stonehaven to Dunnottar Castle walk. The trail curves along the coastline, offering epic vistas out to sea and of the castle in the distance.
Once we reached Dunnottar Castle in Stonehaven, Scotland, we had a decision to make. Climb the 200-plus stairs and pay for entry or simply take in the spectacle from afar. In the end, we opted to remain on the trail and continued south to additional stunning viewpoints.
#5 Walk in Dunnottar Woods
Rather than returning to town via the coastal path, we made a detour to Dunnottar Woods. The lush green space features multiple trails through forest and meadows – as well as a few oddities – like the Shell House and Lady Kennedy’s Bath.
The shade of the forest was welcomed on the sunny day and the vibrant flowers were beautiful in the meadow. However, getting there took much longer than anticipated. So, with just one day in Stonehaven, we suggest returning the way you came on the incredible coastline trail.
#6 Enjoy Stonehaven Beer and Scottish Food
We believe there’s no better way to end a day in Stonehaven than with a pint. Once back in town, we beelined to the harborside Marine Hotel. The property serves as the taproom for Stonehaven’s craft brewery, Six Degrees North. A local hangout that offers a warm welcome to guests, the pub is cozy and inviting…and the beer is superb!
For dinner, we had intended on eating Fish and Chips from The Carron; it’s one of the top-rated Stonehaven restaurants. Plus, they claim to be the creator of the famous Fried Mars Bar – a Must-Eat Food in Scotland.
However, the day had slipped away from us, so we hustled back to the station to catch the train from Stonehaven to Aberdeen. Perhaps, next time!
More Stonehaven Things To Do
In our opinion, the above outline is the best way to spend a day in Stonehaven, United Kingdom. However, we have a few additional area attractions for visitors staying longer or with different interests.
RSPB Scotland Fowlsheugh
Situated along the coast south of Dunnottar Castle – and reachable by public bus from Stonehaven – the RSPB Scotland Fowlsheugh is a nature reserve and bird sanctuary. Seabirds (including Puffins!) nest in the area and dolphins are often spotted offshore. More info.
Stonehaven Swimming Pool
The North Sea is often too cold for swimming. Don’t worry, the Stonehaven open air pool is heated and has a fun waterslide!
Boat Tour from Stonehaven
Stonehaven boat cruises are a fabulous way to see the coastline from a different vantage point. Highlights include Dunnottar Castle, marine wildlife and bird spotting. Fishing trips can also be arranged for avid anglers.
Golfing
Located on the coastline near the ruins of the Chapel of St. Mary and St. Nathalan, the Stonehaven Golf Club features a spectacularly scenic setting for a round.
Stonehaven, Scotland Map of Attractions
Our map pinpoints the best things to see and do in Stonehaven. Use this Google Map for an interactive version of the one below.
Stonehaven, Scotland Travel Tips
Planning a Stonehaven day trip is fairly easy, but we are sharing some advice to help ensure your visit goes off without a hitch.
Organize Your Trip
Visiting Stonehaven is likely part of a much bigger Scotland vacation. If you’re putting together a longer Scotland Itinerary, use our Travel Planning Printables to stay sorted!
How To Get to Stonehaven, Scotland
Travelers can reach Stonehaven by train, bus or car. The town is easy to get to from several destinations, like Aberdeen, Dundee and even Edinburgh. There is no airport in Stonehaven; the closest being in Aberdeen.
For our trip, we took a 20 minute ride on the Aberdeen to Stonehaven train. Note that the Stonehaven Train Station is about a 20-minute walk from the center of town.
The Dundee – Stonehaven – Aberdeen bus is run by Stagecoach. The X7 route drops passengers off right in the center of town at the Barclay Street Coach Station. The bus ride from Aberdeen takes 40 minutes and about 2 hours from Dundee.
Those with a car can pay for a spot at the Market Square Car Park. However, for free parking, find a place at the Beach Promenade Car Park.
Where To Stay
Stonehaven is a holiday town, so there are plenty of options for those staying longer than a day. These include hotels, vacation cottages and apartments on Airbnb.
The Ship Inn is highly rated as one of the best hotels in Stonehaven, Scotland. Guests love the sea-facing rooms and included breakfast. It also gets high marks for cleanliness and friendly staff. Check rates and availability!
What To Bring
Whether planning a Stonehaven trip for a day or longer, there are a few things you will want to bring along.
- Durable Shoes: One of the best things about Stonehaven are the walking trails. So be sure to wear a good pair of travel shoes.
- Travel Camera: The scenery is Stonehaven is exquisite! To capture the best pictures, bring a real camera – like the DSLR Canon Rebel that we use.
- Weather Gear: Scotland’s climate is pretty much unpredictable any time of year. It’s best to dress in layers and pack a lightweight raincoat. When the skies are clear, you will need your favorite sunglasses and sunscreen, too!
Start planning your trip to the UK! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Scotland Travel Guides
- Plan Your Trip to Edinburgh and Glasgow
- Guide to Scotland’s Eastern Coast
- What To Do in Aberdeen
- Things To See in St Andrews
- Visiting the towns of Plockton, Dunbar and Perth, Scotland
- Things To Do in Inverness
- How to Visit Isle of Skye and Portree
- Hiking the West Highland Way
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