1 High Shore, Banff: The Historic Merchant’s House
Discover 1 High Shore, a beautifully preserved 17th-century merchant’s house at the heart of Banff’s historic core, rich in heritage and architectural charm.
1 High Shore is a distinguished heritage building located in the heart of Banff, Scotland. Dating back to 1675, this three-storey merchant’s house features traditional harled walls with ashlar margins and dressings. It stands as one of Banff’s oldest surviving structures, reflecting the town’s rich mercantile past and architectural heritage. Adjacent to other historic buildings, it forms a key part of Banff’s conservation area and offers a glimpse into 17th-century Scottish urban life.
A brief summary to 1 high shore
- 12 High Shore, Banff, AB45 1DB, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Take time to admire the harled walls and ashlar stonework, classic features of 17th-century Scottish architecture.
- Explore nearby historic sites like the Silversmith’s House and Market Arms to fully appreciate Banff’s heritage cluster.
- Visit during daylight hours to see the building’s façade details clearly and enjoy the surrounding town atmosphere.
- Learn about Banff’s mercantile history through local heritage information boards often found nearby.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
-
Bus
Local bus services connect Banff with nearby towns such as Macduff and Fraserburgh, with travel times ranging from 20 to 40 minutes depending on origin. Buses stop within a 10-minute walk of 1 High Shore. Tickets typically cost between £3 and £7 one-way.
-
Train and Taxi
The nearest train station is in Aberdeen, approximately 70 km away. From Aberdeen station, taxis take around 1 hour and 15 minutes to reach 1 High Shore, with fares approximately £80–£100. This option suits travelers arriving by rail seeking direct access.
-
Car
Driving to Banff is straightforward via the A98 road, with parking available in town car parks within a 5–10 minute walk of 1 High Shore. Parking fees range from free to £5 per day. Note that central Banff streets can be narrow and busy during peak times.
-
Walking
If staying within Banff town centre, 1 High Shore is easily accessible on foot. Walking routes are mostly flat and paved, suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair users.
1 high shore location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Windy Conditions
Discover more about 1 high shore
Architectural Heritage and Historical Significance
1 High Shore is a prominent example of a 17th-century Scottish merchant’s house, constructed in 1675. This three-storey building showcases classic period features such as harled exterior walls with carefully painted ashlar margins and dressings, which highlight its architectural finesse. The house’s three-bay façade and two return bays facing Carmelite Street emphasize its historic urban prominence. As one of Banff’s oldest surviving merchant houses, it offers invaluable insight into the town’s mercantile history and the lifestyle of its early affluent residents.Role within Banff’s Historic Core
Situated in the centre of Banff, 1 High Shore is part of a cluster of heritage buildings including the Silversmith’s House and the Market Arms. This grouping forms a vital element of Banff’s conservation area, which preserves the medieval core of the town. The building’s location near Banff Castle and the quayside underscores its historical role in commerce and trade, reflecting the town’s importance as a trading hub on Scotland’s northeast coast.Architectural Details and Preservation
The building’s harled finish—a traditional lime-based render—combined with ashlar stone margins, creates a distinctive textured appearance that is both functional and aesthetic. The central doorway flanked by single windows exemplifies the symmetry valued in the period’s design. Preservation efforts have maintained these original features, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and materials typical of 17th-century Scottish architecture.Context within Banff’s Urban Landscape
1 High Shore stands amidst a rich tapestry of historic structures that together narrate Banff’s development through centuries. Its proximity to other listed buildings and the Market Arms pub highlights the continuity of community life centered around commerce, governance, and social gathering. This heritage building contributes to the town’s unique character and offers a tangible connection to Banff’s past.Visitor Experience and Cultural Value
While primarily a historic structure, 1 High Shore invites visitors to reflect on Banff’s evolution from a medieval trading town to a modern community. The building’s enduring presence amidst the bustling town centre provides a sense of place and continuity. Its architectural charm and historical resonance make it a noteworthy stop for those interested in Scottish heritage and urban history.Conservation and Legacy
Protected as a listed building, 1 High Shore benefits from conservation measures that safeguard its fabric and appearance. The Banff Preservation Society and local authorities work to ensure that such heritage sites remain integral to the town’s identity. This building stands as a testament to Banff’s commitment to preserving its architectural and cultural legacy for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Plainstones (Center of Banff, UK)
0.1 km
Discover Banff’s historic Plainstones, where centuries-old carvings and heraldic symbols tell the story of Scotland’s coastal heritage.
Duff House Fishing Temple
1.1 km
An elegant 18th-century neoclassical fishing temple on the River Deveron, blending history, architecture, and tranquil riverside charm in Aberdeenshire.
Eden Castle
5.3 km
Ruined Renaissance tower house overlooking river confluence, a scheduled ancient monument of Scottish gentry heritage.
Durn Hill - Iron Age Fort
11.9 km
Explore Durn Hill, an ancient Iron Age fort with commanding views and rich archaeological heritage near Banff, Scotland.
Barra Hill
39.8 km
Explore Barra Hill near Inverurie, an ancient hillfort and historic battlefield offering panoramic views and a deep connection to Scotland’s past.
Balquhain Stone Circle
40.1 km
Explore Balquhain Stone Circle, a rare Neolithic monument near Inverurie, revealing ancient ritual mysteries amidst Aberdeenshire’s serene landscape.
Rothes Castle
43.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Rothes Castle, a 13th-century fortress commanding the Spey Valley and steeped in Scottish medieval history.
St. Peter's Kirk & Parish Cross
51.5 km
Medieval kirk and rare surviving mercat cross spanning eight centuries of Scottish history.
Dyce Standing Stones
53.5 km
Mysterious Pictish stones bridging pagan and Christian worlds, carved over 1,400 years ago.
Crook of Alves (historical placename)
55.4 km
Discover the Crook of Alves, a cultural landmark in Elgin, where history meets stunning natural beauty in Scotland's captivating landscapes.
Sutherland N
56.3 km
Discover the tranquility of Sutherland N Farm in Forres, where rural beauty and fresh local produce come together for an unforgettable experience.
VisitAberdeenshire
56.9 km
Explore the enchanting landscapes and rich culture of Aberdeenshire at VisitAberdeenshire, your gateway to Scotland's best-kept secrets.
Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens
57.9 km
Discover the historical elegance and natural beauty of Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens in the heart of Banffshire, a must-visit for all travelers.
Burghead Well
58.0 km
Explore Burghead Well, an ancient Pictish landmark in Scotland offering a unique glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region.
Asliesk Castle (remains)
58.0 km
Explore the ivy-clad ruins of Asliesk Castle, a 16th-century Scottish tower house steeped in history and legend near Elgin, Moray.
Unmissable attractions to see
Medieval Kirkyard of Banff
0.1 km
Explore Banff’s medieval St Mary’s Kirkyard, a historic burial ground rich with centuries-old tombs and evocative memorial art.
Banff and Macduff Heritage Trail
0.1 km
Discover the rich history and scenic charm of Banff and Macduff on this immersive coastal heritage trail.
Lynash Antiques
0.2 km
Discover unique antiques and timeless treasures in the heart of Banff’s historic Old Market Place.
Labyrinth
0.2 km
A historic castle site in Banff with a peaceful labyrinth on its front lawn, blending medieval roots, Georgian elegance, and community spirit by the Moray Firth.
The Banff Deli
0.2 km
A cozy, highly rated deli in Banff serving fresh, artisan sandwiches and light meals in a warm, welcoming setting.
Vanilla Ink The Smiddy
0.2 km
Discover Banff’s historic silversmithing heritage through expert-led jewellery and silversmithing workshops at Vanilla Ink The Smiddy.
Banff Castle
0.2 km
A historic Scottish stronghold reborn as a vibrant community arts centre and events venue on the Banffshire coast.
Museum of Banff
0.2 km
Discover Banff’s rich heritage through fascinating artifacts and community spirit at one of Scotland’s oldest museums.
The Spotty Bag Shop
0.2 km
A nostalgic discount shop and café in Banff offering eclectic goods and scenic dining with friendly service in a vibrant community setting.
Banff beach
0.3 km
Historic Banff Bridge Beach offers serene coastal views, rich heritage, and a timeless connection between Banff and Macduff.
Duff House Public Gardens
0.3 km
Explore the historic Georgian estate and tranquil public gardens of Duff House, a cultural gem blending art, history, and nature in Banff.
Rex’s Kitchen
0.6 km
Cozy takeaway spot in Banff offering fresh, seasonal dishes with a friendly, casual vibe from late afternoon to evening daily.
Duff House
0.7 km
Explore Duff House, a majestic Georgian mansion in Banff blending rich history, stunning art, and serene parkland in Scotland’s scenic northeast.
Temple of Venus
0.8 km
An elegant 18th-century folly with stunning panoramic views over Banff, Macduff, and the Moray Firth coastline.
Scottish Midland Co-Operative Food Store
0.9 km
Your friendly local co-op in Banff offering fresh essentials, great coffee, and a welcoming community atmosphere every day.
Essential places to dine
Market Arms
0.0 km
Experience the charm of Banff at Market Arms - where hearty meals meet local brews in a welcoming pub atmosphere.
Indian Garden Restaurant and Takeaway
0.1 km
Authentic Indian flavours and warm hospitality await at Banff’s beloved Indian Garden Restaurant and Takeaway.
Happy Palace
0.1 km
Savor authentic Chinese flavors at Happy Palace in Banff - where every dish tells a story of culinary excellence.
LightHouse Fish Bar
0.2 km
Savor traditional British fish and chips with a diverse menu in Banff’s cozy and welcoming LightHouse Fish Bar.
Bridgeview Restaurant
0.2 km
Bright and welcoming restaurant in Banff offering traditional Scottish dishes with scenic views and family-friendly accessibility.
Fife Lodge Hotel
0.9 km
Charming 3-star country house hotel in Banff with friendly service, delicious dining, and beautiful garden views near scenic beaches and golf courses.
The Knowes Hotel, Restaurant and Function Suite
1.6 km
Charming coastal hotel in Macduff with stunning Moray Firth views, modern rooms, excellent dining, and versatile event spaces.
Rockfish
3.7 km
Savor sustainably sourced, fresh seafood in a cozy coastal setting with generous portions and friendly service at Rockfish, Whitehills.
Seafield Arms
3.8 km
Traditional Scottish hospitality on the Moray coast, where comfort meets genuine Highland welcome.
Blakeshouse Lounge Bar & Restaurant
10.9 km
Authentic Scottish flavors and local brews in a cozy lounge setting nestled in the scenic Fisherie area of Turriff.
The Kastille
14.6 km
A vibrant blend of modern dining, lively bar, and nightclub experiences in the heart of Turriff.
1236 Cave Bar at Meldrum House
37.0 km
Historic 800-year-old stone bar with award-winning whisky and casual Scottish dining at Meldrum House Country Hotel.
Eat On The Green
42.1 km
Experience refined Scottish dining with fresh local ingredients and impeccable service in the heart of Udny Green.
Fennel Restaurant
43.1 km
Modern European dining with fresh local ingredients in a relaxed, stylish setting at Inverurie’s Fennel Restaurant.
The Montgomerie Restaurant
43.4 km
A tranquil golf club restaurant in Inverurie serving excellent British cuisine with scenic course views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bargainland
0.0 km
Discover stylish homewares and unbeatable bargains in Banff’s welcoming Bargainland, a must-visit for quality and charm.
Rebel Yells
0.1 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at Rebel Yells, a charming shop in Banff that celebrates local culture and style.
Ivy's Emporium
0.1 km
Discover timeless antiques and unique collectibles in the heart of Banff at Ivy's Emporium, a charming treasure trove for vintage lovers.
Oldanu
0.1 km
Discover a unique blend of local crafts and souvenirs at Oldanu, the charming gift shop in the heart of Banff, perfect for capturing your travel memories.
The Gift Box
0.1 km
Discover unique, locally inspired gifts in the charming heart of Banff, Scotland’s historic coastal town.
Tuleni
0.1 km
Explore Tuleni in Banff for a unique selection of stylish ladies' clothing, offering personalized shopping experiences in a charming boutique atmosphere.
Trend DIY
0.1 km
Discover a treasure trove of crafting supplies and unleash your creativity at Trend DIY in Banff, a must-visit for all DIY enthusiasts.
PETAL the store
0.2 km
Discover Banff’s charming gift boutique featuring over 60 independent brands in a warm, curated setting on historic High Street.
Castlegate Newsagents
0.2 km
Your friendly local newsstand and supermarket in Banff’s historic center, open early to late daily for all your essentials and local treats.
The Candy Box
0.2 km
A cozy family-run sweet shop in Banff famed for its diverse candies and exceptional ice cream treats.
Co-op Food - Banff - Bridge Road
0.4 km
Conveniently located on Bridge Road, Co-op Food Banff offers fresh local produce and essentials daily from 7 AM to 10 PM.
Meadowlands
0.5 km
Discover Banff’s local artistry and unique gifts at Meadowlands Gallery, a charming cultural hub on historic North Castle Street.
Cheyne's Of Banff
0.7 km
Explore Cheyne's Of Banff for a unique shopping experience filled with local crafts, souvenirs, and the spirit of the Canadian Rockies.
Key Stores
0.7 km
Discover the convenience of Key Stores in Banff for all your travel needs, from snacks to essentials, amidst breathtaking mountain views.
The Platform
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish fashion, and delightful café treats in Macduff’s charming old railway station turned lifestyle hub.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Castle Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and local ales in the cozy, historic setting of Castle Bar in Banff.
The Railway Inn
0.5 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Banff offering friendly hospitality, extensive whiskies, and stunning harbour views.
Banff Springs Hotel
1.1 km
Experience timeless luxury and breathtaking mountain vistas at the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, the Castle in the Rockies.
The Old Moray Ltd
1.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and local ales at The Old Moray Ltd, a traditional harbour pub in the heart of Macduff.
Craigenroan Bar
25.1 km
A cozy and welcoming pub in Buckie offering authentic Scottish ales, lively events, and a true community vibe.
St Andrews Bar
41.6 km
A cozy and friendly Scottish pub in Lhanbryde offering great drinks and warm local hospitality in a relaxed setting.
The Craft - off-licence and Bar
41.8 km
A cozy village wine bar and off-licence in Pitmedden offering craft drinks, community spirit, and award-winning hospitality.
The Firth
45.6 km
Coastal charm meets hearty Scottish fare at The Firth, a welcoming pub and hotel with stunning sea views in Lossiemouth.
Brander Arms
45.6 km
A welcoming harbourside pub in Lossiemouth offering friendly service, scenic sea views, and a cozy atmosphere for relaxed drinks.
The Cottar Hoose
46.0 km
Experience authentic Scottish warmth and friendly banter at The Cottar Hoose, Elgin’s cozy traditional pub with a welcoming open fire.
Kirkie Bar
46.7 km
Experience the warm charm of Kirkie Bar, New Elgin’s cozy spot for local ales, live music, and friendly gatherings on Main Street.
Thornhill Leisure Ltd
46.8 km
Experience the charm of Thornhill Leisure Ltd, a cozy pub in Elgin, perfect for enjoying local ales and Scottish hospitality.
IV30 Cocktail and Wine Bar
46.9 km
Historic charm meets modern mixology at IV30 Cocktail and Wine Bar, Elgin’s stylish spot for refined drinks and relaxed evenings.
Ionic Bar
47.1 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Elgin’s heart, offering friendly vibes, local brews, and timeless charm for relaxed socialising.
The Muckle Cross - JD Wetherspoon
47.1 km
A vibrant and affordable JD Wetherspoon pub on Elgin High Street offering hearty meals and a lively atmosphere from morning till late.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Banff Town & County Club
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Banff at the historic Town & County Club, a social hub that celebrates local culture and community spirit.
Deveronside Club
0.6 km
A warm and lively social club in Banff offering great events, affordable drinks, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Purple Nightclub
26.4 km
Experience Buckie’s vibrant nightlife at Purple Nightclub, the ultimate destination for dancing, live music, and unforgettable late-night events.
Deejays Nightclub
30.5 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Seaforth Club
47.2 km
A welcoming members-only social club in Elgin offering great atmosphere, steak suppers, and a true sense of community spirit.
Zed Bar
47.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
Joannas Nightclub
47.5 km
Lively and casual nightclub in Elgin’s town centre, offering weekend late-night music, dancing, and social vibes in a friendly local setting.
Exodus
62.7 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
Venga
62.8 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at Venga, where retro beats, themed nights, and cocktails fuel unforgettable dances until dawn on vibrant Chapel Street.
Club Tropicana & Venga
62.8 km
Compact retro nightclub on Chapel Street with neon kitsch, themed nights and a late‑night dancefloor for nostalgic hits and loud, energetic DJ sets.
The Tunnels
62.9 km
Dive into Aberdeen’s underground nightlife at The Tunnels, where pulsating beats and intimate vibes create unforgettable nights.
The Underground Klub
63.0 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Babylon
63.0 km
Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.
Number 7 Club
63.0 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
491 Union Street
63.0 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at this top-of-Union-Street hotspot, where killer beats, craft drinks, and epic events light up weekends until dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly