Location: Stonehaven
Top Things to do in Stonehaven
Top 10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Stonehaven, Scotland
Stonehaven (/stoʊnˈheɪvən/ ( listen); [stinˈhaiv] ( listen)) is a town in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It lies on Scotland's northeast coast and had a population of 11,602 (Scotland's Census 2011). After the demise of the town of Kincardine, which was gradually abandoned after the destruction of its royal castle in the Wars of Independence, the Scottish Parliament made Stonehaven the successor county town of Kincardineshire. Stonehaven had grown around an Iron Age fishing village, now the "Auld Toon" ("old town"), and expanded inland from the seaside. As late as the 16th century, old maps indicate the town was called Stonehyve, Stonehive, Pont also adding the alternative Duniness. It is known informally to locals as Stoney.
Restaurants in Stonehaven
1. Dunnottar Castle
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3,128 reviews
Majestic 14th-century castle located on a rugged cliff overlooking the coast.
Reviewed By _sw5555_ - Vancouver, Canada
There's no mistaken that this is one of the top castle ruins, with an unique location and windy ocean views. Depending on the day, you may descent the hillside and climb into the ruins with a piper playing in the background. And with the likes of King Charles II making an appearance (who actually stayed overnight), the Scottish crown jewels too, and a legend involving William Wallace burning the English encampment, this place is just like Scotland crystallized.
2. E Giulianotti
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 122 reviews
Reviewed By Rosannesmith1
The best homemade ice cream and sorbets ever and made on the premises, fabulous flavours including delicious vegan versions. Totally worth a visit. Very hardworking and friendly staff always happy to help.
3. Stonehaven Paddleboarding
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 41 reviews
Stonehavens only provider of Stand Up Paddleboarding. Offering Lessons - Dunnottar Castle Caves and Coves Coastal Tours - River Dee Tours - Equipment Rental - Gift Vouchers Individuals - Groups - Families - Privates - Birthday Parties - Stag and Hen - Corporate Based and operating out of Stonehaven's stunning Harbour. Lessons will take place in the super safe harbour area and using the amazing coastline to explore and perfect your technique. All equipment provided Boards, Wetsuits, Boots, Gloves etc
4. Stonehaven Open Air Swimming Pool
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 267 reviews
Huge, Olympic-size open air swimming pool and lido with clean sea water heated to 29°C (85°F). Open daily 25 May - 1 Sept 2019. Quiet swims for adults, inflatables sessions for kids, toddlers' paddling pool, midnight swims in peak season. Chute (swimmers only) open daily. Sheltered sun terraces, on-site cafe, ample free parking. Day tickets valid all day! Family 2+2 or 1+3. 12-session & season tickets also available.
Reviewed By GailC158 - Inverness, United Kingdom
I visited for the 1st time with my boyfriend who has been here many times and it was just wonderful, huge pool and the warmth of the water just pure heaven ... think we were 2 hrs in the water !! Wonderful sunny day on Sat and live band was a bonus too, I thought it would have been over crowded with children but it wasn’t and although busy it’s large enough not to really notice that. I can’t wait to go back and the cafe is brilliant and lovely staff, very friendly and welcoming ... it’s almost like stepping back in time, I loved it all ... thank you to all that work there, it’s a wee bit of heaven in Stonehaven ????????
5. RSPB Fowlsheugh
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 108 reviews
Fowlsheugh's cliffs come alive from April to July when more than 100,000 seabirds return to their summer home to breed. Kittiwakes, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars and gulls provide a sight, sound and smell experience like no other. All with a good chance of spotting a puffin too! There's a two-mile walk along the cliff tops with fabulous sea views to a beautiful look out shelter. Paths can be slippery and muddy, so please dress appropriately and take care as you walk along the unprotected cliff tops.
Reviewed By HellyWelly93 - Kingston-upon-Hull, United Kingdom
This place is off the hidden track. Parking is free, but there isn’t much of it. Its well signposted when you get on the track, with information boards about the wildlife than can be seen. Watch your footing because the footpath is narrow in places. There is a lovely bird hide towards the end of the trial, perfect for sheltering from the elements. Unfortunately we didn't see many birds as it was the wrong time of year, but it was nice to visit nevertheless.
6. Tolbooth Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 182 reviews
Reviewed By HankBrogieLabrador
Cannot recommend this museum enough. Yes, it doesn't have items in glass cases - but it has stuff everywhere, and the people who run it are so full of interesting information and friendly - it is an utter delight to spend a couple of hours wandering around. Well worth a visit. Recommend.
7. The Fireballs
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 44 reviews
Reviewed By TravelWithEarlyTeens
I couldn't believe it I didn't know about this attraction after having lived in Scotland for 10 years hahaha -------------------------------------------------------------- Note: -Bring a bottle of bubbly with you on New Year Eve you wouldn't regret it. -If you get there for 22:00 you would have no problem getting a spot to see this attraction -We found a parking space near the harbour at 22:00, and that's a good place to park. -After watching the fireball, which would be New Year Day, you could still get your fish supper at that time, just prepare to Q for it ;-) -You could see all activities no matter where you stand. The reason being the parade or fireball goes up and down on the High Street. But, if you are short in height then you might to go early to get a spot on the front row -If in any doubts, always grab one of the guards on duty ;they know all the answers to your questions concerning this attraction on that day. -This attraction is free but there would be people there asking for a donation for charity as you enter. -Public toilet was locked during that hour.
8. Stonehaven War Memorial
9. Scallywags Soft Play Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 29 reviews
Reviewed By Kody01 - Scotland, United Kingdom
I visited the soft play area with a little one visiting from Holland. She had a great time. I’ll hopefully manage to take her back before she goes home. This is a facility for all year round, even in the wettest of days your children will be entertained and you can all be fed too. There is a varied menu for adults and children which is cooked to perfection, and their ice cream is delicious too, the choice of flavours are amazing and all kids cones are pirate themed, which is just a bit different. The staff are amazing with everyone who comes into the place, its well run and staff could not do enough to help. Anyone passing and looking for something to eat this is a good option down the beach front, not necessary to be using the soft play. I’ll be going back just to sit in and have a coffee and a home bake or an ice cream. It’s a well run establishment and I’d certainly recommend to anyone who hasn’t tried Scallywags yet.
