Location: Stonehaven
Top Things to do in Stonehaven
What to do and see in Stonehaven, Scotland: The Best Things to do Good for Big Groups
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. Huskyhaven
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 21 reviews
Sled dog visitor and experience centre A unique experience on the outskirts of Stonehaven with something for all ages
Reviewed By 935coletteb - Aberdeen, United Kingdom
My husband and I had a great experience at Huskyhaven, thanks to Wattie and his team. Beautiful dogs, amazing stories and one great experience to be on the sled on a clear December evening. A bit difficult to spot the opening from the road in the dark, but the scotland flags helped us out on the second run of the road. Fun activity and definitely something slightly different to do in the North East.
4. Stonehaven Sea Safari
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 33 reviews
Get ready to see some of the most dramatic coastline on the East Coast of Scotland as we transport you safely at speed for an unforgettable trip! Experience the thrill of our specially built Sea Safari boat as we get you up close and personal to some of the world’s most popular sea and wildlife. Whether it’s beautiful and highly intelligent dolphins or the unmistakable colours of the Puffin to the secret caves and waterfalls that cannot be seen from land, you are guaranteed to have an amazing experience for the whole family to enjoy.
5. 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 ????????
6. Aunty Bettys
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 445 reviews
Tiny Wee Ice Cream And Sweetie Shop With Hot Drinks To Go. Open Everyday Early, Till Late. Lovely Location To Enjoy A Traditional Sea Side Treat.
Reviewed By DavidRowland - Edinburgh, United Kingdom
We visited here while staying overnight in Stonehaven and both had the Kinder Bueno Sundae - oh my goodness - it was amazing. Huge chunks of bueno smothered in vanilla and chocolate ice cream (with the option of swapping these out for other flavours) and very tasty sauces. Just amazing!
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. 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.
9. Stonehaven Beach
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 366 reviews
Reviewed By Fionabettley1974 - Sale, United Kingdom
A lovely pebble beach very clean and well looked after,I’ve been coming here ever since I was a child as I have family here, there’s a lovely cafe and ice cream place and also lovely clean toilets, well worth a visit ????
