Skate's Nose Jetty & Capstan, Aberdeen Harbour
Historic stone jetty with iconic cast-iron light tower marking Aberdeen Harbour’s entrance and rich maritime heritage.
Skate's Nose Jetty & Capstan is a historic stone and concrete jetty located at the entrance to Aberdeen Harbour on Greyhope Road. Marked by a distinctive semi-circular cast-iron tower with flashing red and green lights, this site has played a crucial role in guiding ships safely through the navigation channel. Its origins date back centuries, with nearby fishing houses and maritime infrastructure reflecting Aberdeen’s rich seafaring heritage.
A brief summary to Skate's Nose Jetty & Capstan
- Greyhope Rd, Aberdeen, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight for the best views of the jetty and harbour entrance.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique cast-iron tower and coastal scenery.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Greyhope Road for a peaceful seaside experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus services 15 or 16 from Aberdeen city center towards Torry, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day but less often in the evenings. From the Torry stop, a 10-minute walk along Greyhope Road leads to Skate's Nose Jetty. Tickets cost around £2-£3 GBP.
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Car
Driving from central Aberdeen takes about 10-15 minutes via Wellington Road and Greyhope Road. Limited parking is available near the harbour area, so early arrival is recommended. Parking fees typically range from £1 to £3 GBP per hour.
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Walking
For active visitors, a 40- to 50-minute walk from Aberdeen city center along the scenic riverside and coastal paths offers an enjoyable route to Skate's Nose Jetty. The terrain is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for most walkers.
Skate's Nose Jetty & Capstan location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Skate's Nose Jetty & Capstan
Maritime Landmark at Aberdeen’s Harbour Entrance
Skate's Nose Jetty stands prominently at the mouth of Aberdeen Harbour, serving as a key navigational aid for vessels entering the River Dee. Constructed of sturdy stone and concrete, the jetty features a small semi-circular cast-iron tower housing flashing red and green lights, which help mark the safe channel for ships. This structure is part of a network of historic maritime installations that have guided seafarers for centuries, ensuring safe passage through the often challenging North Sea waters.Historical Significance and Evolution
The jetty’s location, known as Skate’s Nose, has a long history tied to Aberdeen’s maritime activities. Historical maps from the 17th century show boats moored nearby in an area called The Raich, alongside fishing houses lining the shoreline. Over time, the jetty was developed to improve the navigation channel, with stonework similar to the early 19th-century North Pier construction. Additions to the pier and breakwaters in the 1800s enhanced the harbour’s protection and operational capacity, reflecting Aberdeen’s growth as a major Scottish port.Capstans and Harbour Operations
The area around Skate's Nose Jetty once featured several capstans—mechanical devices used to haul ropes and anchors—critical for mooring and ship handling. Historical records note that over 15 capstans surrounded the navigation channel, including two near Torry Beach and others on breakwaters and jetties. These capstans were essential for managing the large vessels that frequented Aberdeen Harbour, especially during the era of steam-powered ships.Setting and Visitor Experience
Today, Skate's Nose Jetty offers visitors a glimpse into Aberdeen's maritime heritage within a scenic coastal setting. The jetty’s location on Greyhope Road provides tranquil views of the harbour entrance and the North Sea beyond. The flashing lights of the cast-iron tower continue to serve their original purpose, blending historical charm with functional maritime safety. The area invites peaceful walks and quiet reflection on the city’s enduring connection to the sea.Architectural and Visual Features
The jetty’s robust stone and concrete construction exemplifies early 19th-century harbour engineering, designed to withstand harsh marine conditions. The cast-iron tower, with its distinctive semi-circular shape and modern electric light unit, adds a unique visual element contrasting with the natural seascape. This combination of industrial heritage and coastal scenery makes the site a notable feature of Aberdeen’s waterfront.Legacy and Maritime Culture
Skate's Nose Jetty & Capstan stands as a testament to Aberdeen’s long-standing maritime culture, reflecting centuries of seafaring, fishing, and harbour development. The preservation of such structures helps maintain the historical narrative of the city’s relationship with the sea, offering both locals and visitors an opportunity to connect with the past while enjoying the natural beauty of the harbour entrance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Castlegate
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Aedie's House site
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Duke Of Gordon Monument
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Gallows Hill
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St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
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Rosemount Market
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The Powis Gates
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Unmissable attractions to see
Footdee
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Fittie
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Footdee Mission Hall
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Torry Battery
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Port of Aberdeen - South Harbour
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Footdee beach
1.1 km
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Walker Park
1.1 km
Explore Aberdeen’s maritime heritage and port expansion at Walker Park’s South Harbour Visitor Centre, a scenic gateway to the city’s harbour life.
Beach Boulevard Retail Park
1.3 km
A vibrant coastal retail park in Aberdeen offering diverse stores, budget-friendly shopping, and a refreshing seaside atmosphere.
Greyhope Beach
1.3 km
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Aberdeen beach front
1.3 km
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Codona's
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Aberdeen Ferry Terminal
1.5 km
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Port of Aberdeen
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Aberdeen Ghost Walks
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Aberdeen Science Centre
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Essential places to dine
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The Hungry Beast
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Croque Toasties
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Cartoos Grill House & Desserts
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210 Bistro
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Siam Cottage
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Goulash
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Taste of Hong Kong
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Miller & Carter Aberdeen
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Zizzi - Aberdeen
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The Esslemont Bar & Restaurant
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The City Bar and Diner
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Maggie's Grill
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Bistro Verde
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An intimate Aberdeen bistro delivering fresh, beautifully presented seafood with attentive service in a cozy, elegant setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Range, Aberdeen
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Frantiques
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Fernweh UK
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Hobbycraft Aberdeen
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Discover a creative sanctuary in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Square, offering expert-led workshops and a vast range of craft supplies.
Brunswick Stores
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Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop
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Castle Gate
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Menkind
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Next
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The Vintage Market
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Annie Mo's
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EDIT
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Castle Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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The Mask Club
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Banff Town & County Club
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
