Crawton Waterfall: Coastal Serenity near Stonehaven
Discover the tranquil beauty of Crawton Waterfall, a coastal gem near Stonehaven where history meets stunning sea views and serene nature.
Crawton Waterfall, nestled near Stonehaven in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is a charming natural attraction famed for its scenic coastal setting and tranquil ambiance. This short but rewarding trail leads visitors through the remnants of a historic fishing village to a picturesque waterfall cascading onto rocky shores, framed by cliffs and abundant seabirds. Ideal for nature lovers and photographers, Crawton Waterfall offers a peaceful escape with stunning views of the North Sea coastline.
A brief summary to Crawton Waterfall
- United Kingdom, Stonehaven, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 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 early morning for spectacular sunrise views and fewer crowds.
- Wear sturdy footwear as some trail sections near cliffs can be uneven.
- Bring a camera to capture the waterfall, cliffs, and abundant seabirds.
- Respect the natural environment by sticking to marked paths and carrying out all litter.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Stonehaven town center to Crawton Waterfall takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Parking is limited near the trailhead, so arrive early during peak seasons. The route follows rural roads with some narrow sections, so cautious driving is advised.
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Bus and Walk
Take a regional bus from Stonehaven to the nearby village of Catterline, which takes about 20 to 30 minutes. From Catterline, the waterfall is accessible via a 2.5 km (approx. 40-minute) walk along coastal paths. The terrain is mostly flat but includes some uneven ground near the cliffs.
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Walking
For those staying in Stonehaven, a longer hike of about 7 km (approximately 2 hours) along scenic coastal trails leads to Crawton Waterfall. The path offers varied terrain with some gentle climbs and is suitable for moderately fit walkers.
Crawton Waterfall location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Crawton Waterfall
Historic Coastal Village Roots
Crawton Waterfall is located near the site of a former fishing village on the Aberdeenshire coast, close to Stonehaven. The village itself has long since faded, but its legacy remains etched in the landscape, lending a quiet historical resonance to the area. The waterfall and surrounding cliffs form part of this rugged coastline that has witnessed centuries of maritime activity, with the sound of waves and seabirds evoking the village’s past life.Scenic Natural Beauty and Wildlife
The waterfall cascades gracefully down rocky cliffs onto a pebbled beach, creating a striking contrast between the rushing fresh water and the expansive North Sea. The area is alive with seabirds, including gulls that add lively movement and sound to the scene. Visitors often experience spectacular sunrises here, where the interplay of light on water and rock creates an unforgettable atmosphere. The combination of cliffs, beach, and waterfall makes it a unique spot for nature photography and quiet contemplation.A Compact and Accessible Trail Experience
The trail to Crawton Waterfall is a short loop of approximately 0.8 miles, making it accessible for most visitors including families and casual walkers. The path meanders through coastal terrain that is generally easy to navigate, though some uneven surfaces near the cliffs require attention. This brevity allows for a quick yet immersive nature escape, perfect for a half-day outing or as part of a broader exploration of the Stonehaven area.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to Crawton Waterfall often remark on the serene and unspoiled character of the location. The sound of cascading water combined with the ocean breeze and seabird calls creates a tranquil environment that contrasts with busier tourist spots. The natural setting encourages mindfulness and a deep appreciation for Scotland’s coastal landscapes. The site’s relatively low visitor density enhances its peacefulness, making it ideal for those seeking solitude or a quiet moment in nature.Preservation and Environmental Importance
As part of a coastal ecosystem, Crawton Waterfall and its surroundings are subject to conservation efforts to protect native wildlife and maintain the natural beauty of the area. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by following Leave-No-Trace principles, preserving the habitat for seabirds and other species that thrive here. The waterfall and cliffs also contribute to the geological interest of the region, showcasing natural erosion processes and coastal landforms.Photographic and Seasonal Highlights
The waterfall is particularly photogenic during early morning light and after rainfall when water flow is more robust. Seasonal changes bring varied moods to the landscape—from the crisp, clear days of summer to the dramatic skies of autumn and winter storms. Birdwatchers and photographers will find ample opportunities to capture dynamic scenes, while casual visitors can enjoy the fresh air and scenic vistas year-round.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Burns Family Memorial Cairn
6.2 km
Honoring Robert Burns’s ancestral roots in Stonehaven with a timeless stone memorial set in scenic Scottish countryside.
Boswell's Monument
17.4 km
Historic hilltop monument offering panoramic Aberdeenshire views and local heritage significance.
Keith's Tower
20.0 km
Discover Keith's Tower near Banchory, a striking 19th-century castellated landmark steeped in Scottish heritage and scenic charm.
Blairs Museum
21.0 km
Explore Scotland’s Catholic heritage through centuries-old artifacts at Blairs Museum near Aberdeen, a unique cultural and spiritual treasure.
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
25.0 km
A polished pink granite obelisk in Duthie Park honoring Sir James McGrigor, father of modern military medicine and a key figure in Aberdeen’s history.
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
25.4 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
Queen Victoria Statue
26.3 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Balnagask Motte
26.4 km
Medieval earthen mound marking an early wooden castle, shrouded in mystery and local legend.
Edward VIII Post Box
26.6 km
Discover a rare Edward VIII post box in Aberdeen, a unique relic from the brief 1936 reign of a king who changed British history.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
26.7 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
26.8 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Edward VII Statue
26.9 km
Aberdeen’s grand Edward VII Statue stands in full ceremonial robes, a striking granite and bronze tribute to the British monarch at the heart of the city.
Aedie's House site
26.9 km
Step into Aberdeen’s past at the site of Aedie’s House, a 16th‑century townhouse whose memory lives on in stone, street names, and local history.
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
27.0 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Rosemount Market
27.0 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
RSPB Scotland Fowlsheugh
0.2 km
Experience Scotland’s largest mainland seabird colony on breathtaking 30-metre cliffs with stunning coastal wildlife and panoramic views.
Crawton Bay
0.4 km
Experience breathtaking cliffs, vibrant seabird colonies, and coastal history at scenic Crawton Bay near Stonehaven.
Dunnottar Castle
4.0 km
Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Dunnottar Castle, a stunning historical landmark perched on cliffs overlooking the North Sea.
Dunnottar Cliffs
4.5 km
Dramatic cliff-top ruins steeped in history, guarding Scotland’s crown jewels and offering breathtaking coastal views.
Kinneff Old Church
5.5 km
Historic 13th-century church famed for hiding Scotland’s Crown Jewels during Cromwell’s siege, preserved as a symbol of national heritage.
Stonehaven Harbour
5.6 km
Experience the beauty and history of Stonehaven Harbour, a must-visit coastal gem in Scotland offering stunning views and delicious seafood.
Tolbooth Museum
5.7 km
Explore Stonehaven’s oldest building, a 16th-century tolbooth turned museum revealing Scotland’s rich judicial and maritime heritage.
Stonehaven Beach
6.1 km
A scenic 1.1 km pebble and sandy beach in charming Stonehaven, blending natural beauty, history, and vibrant coastal life on Scotland’s northeast shore.
Castleton Farm Shop - (PYO Not available)
11.8 km
Experience authentic Scottish farm life with fresh produce, homemade meals, and family-friendly charm at Castleton Farm Shop & Cafe.
Farm to Table
16.8 km
Discover fresh local produce, cozy café vibes, and family farm fun at Farm to Table, a sustainable farm shop near Laurencekirk.
Portlethen Shore/Harbour/Creek
17.3 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime heritage of Portlethen Shore, a scenic coastal haven near Aberdeen.
Howe of the Mearns
18.8 km
Discover the rich heritage and community spirit of the Mearns at the Howe of the Mearns Historical Society in Laurencekirk.
The Den & The Glen
19.7 km
A nostalgic children’s playground in Maryculter where storybook characters come to life amidst scenic, family-friendly grounds.
Barney Sculpture
19.8 km
Discover the quirky Barney Sculpture, a playful icon within The Den and The Glen’s imaginative fairy-tale park near Aberdeen.
Peterculter Golf Club
20.3 km
Experience the scenic beauty and challenging play of Peterculter Golf Club nestled along the River Dee with panoramic mountain views.
Essential places to dine
SeafoodBothy
5.6 km
Authentic Stonehaven seafood served fresh in an intimate, cozy setting with a focus on quality and local flavors.
The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant
5.7 km
A refined seafood dining experience set in a historic harbourfront building with stunning North Sea views in Stonehaven.
The Bay Fish & Chips
6.5 km
Freshly battered fish and hearty chips served with seaside charm in Stonehaven’s beloved coastal eatery.
Quayside Restaurant & Fish Bar
10.7 km
Fresh seafood and classic fish & chips served with stunning harbour views in the heart of Gourdon’s fishing village.
The Stack Restaurant and Bar
12.6 km
Innovative Scottish dining in a relaxed coastal village setting, blending fresh local ingredients with global flavors.
The Brae Cafe
15.3 km
A charming traditional Scottish café in Auchenblae offering homemade bakes, hearty meals, and warm hospitality in Aberdeenshire’s scenic countryside.
Mains Of Balquharn Brewers Fayre
17.5 km
Family-friendly pub in Portlethen serving classic British dishes and hearty breakfasts in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Himalayas Restaurant
21.1 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors served with warm hospitality in the heart of Peterculter, Aberdeen.
The Ploughman
21.2 km
A traditional Scottish pub and restaurant in Peterculter serving hearty local dishes with warm hospitality and a rich drinks selection.
Borsalino
21.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist in the warm, inviting atmosphere of Borsalino, Peterculter’s culinary gem.
Blairs Restaurant
21.8 km
Refined Scottish dining in a historic country estate near Aberdeen, blending fresh local flavors with elegant ambiance.
The Bieldside Inn
22.5 km
A contemporary English pub and restaurant in Aberdeen offering quality food, warm hospitality, and inviting spaces for every occasion.
The Falls of Feugh Restaurant
23.4 km
Experience award-winning Scottish cuisine with stunning waterfall views on Royal Deeside’s scenic River Feugh.
Scott Skinner's Restaurant & Bar
23.5 km
A charming family-run pub and restaurant in Banchory offering hearty Scottish fare and warm hospitality in a cosy, welcoming setting.
Restaurant at The Lodge
23.6 km
Elegant riverside dining at Banchory Lodge Hotel, blending local flavors with historic Scottish charm and scenic Dee River views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
My Beautiful Caravan
6.1 km
Discover unique gifts and charming treasures in Stonehaven’s beloved boutique, My Beautiful Caravan.
The Paper Shop
8.7 km
A cozy Inverbervie newsagent offering local papers, snacks, and a friendly atmosphere in the heart of Montrose.
Touchwood Inverbervie
8.7 km
Discover handcrafted pine furniture, antique restoration, and unique gifts in the charming coastal town of Inverbervie.
Premier
9.3 km
Explore the charm of Drumlithie with a visit to Premier Convenience Store, your friendly local shop for all essentials and Scottish treats.
The Steeple Shop
9.3 km
Discover local essentials and delightful treats at The Steeple Shop, your friendly convenience store in Drumlithie near Stonehaven.
Castleton Farm
12.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish farm life with homemade food, local produce, and family-friendly charm at Castleton Farm near Laurencekirk.
Starfish Studio
15.4 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and local artistry in the cozy charm of Johnshaven’s Starfish Studio gift shop.
Miss Mollys Fabric & Yarn Closet
18.2 km
A welcoming fabric and yarn boutique in Laurencekirk, perfect for creative crafters seeking quality materials and expert advice.
Second Treehouse on the Left
18.3 km
A charming children's book and toy shop in Laurencekirk, inspiring young minds through stories and play in a warm community setting.
Holly Mae's & Crafts official stockist of Frenchic Paint
18.5 km
Discover Laurencekirk’s creative gem offering Frenchic Paint, handmade décor, and inspiring workshops in a welcoming craft boutique.
Mace
18.9 km
Explore Mace in Laurencekirk for unique local goods and a warm shopping experience in the heart of Scotland.
It's a Crafty Life
20.1 km
Discover unique handmade macrame décor and craft workshops in the heart of St Cyrus, celebrating Scottish creativity and artisan spirit.
The Flower Field
20.5 km
Freshly picked Scottish flowers direct from family fields at Laurencekirk, blending tradition with sustainable local blooms.
Hidden Scotland Shop
21.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and handmade treasures in a charming, character-filled shop nestled in Milton of Crathes near Banchory.
LUXE
22.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at LUXE, a charming gift shop in Cove Bay, Aberdeen, that captures the essence of Scotland.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Six°North
5.6 km
Lively waterfront pub at The Marine Hotel offering traditional Scottish fare and stunning Stonehaven Harbour views.
Marine Hotel
5.6 km
Experience coastal elegance and warm Scottish hospitality with stunning harbour views at Stonehaven’s Marine Hotel.
Number 44 Hotel & Bar
6.1 km
Cozy coastal hotel and vibrant bar in Stonehaven offering sea views, delicious food, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Station Hotel
6.5 km
A charming Stonehaven hotel blending traditional Scottish hospitality with modern comforts, great food, and a welcoming bar.
Cowie Bar @ Recreation Grounds
6.5 km
A welcoming Scottish pub with a scenic beer garden and vibrant community spirit at Stonehaven Recreation Grounds.
Queens Arms
8.8 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with local ales, hearty fare, and live music at Inverbervie’s charming Queens Arms Pub.
Drumlithie Inn
9.3 km
A cozy, lively pub in Drumlithie offering hearty homemade food, warm hospitality, and vibrant entertainment in a beautifully updated setting.
Quoiters Cafe Bar
13.9 km
A friendly and lively bar in Newtonhill offering local ales, weekly bingo nights, and a cozy atmosphere for all to enjoy.
The Paddock Bar
16.6 km
A family-friendly pub and lounge in Portlethen offering great homemade food, extensive drinks, live sports, and weekend entertainment.
St Cyrus Village Inn
20.1 km
A welcoming coastal inn blending traditional Scottish pub charm with cozy accommodation and scenic Aberdeenshire surroundings.
The Old Bank Bar Ltd
21.2 km
A charming former bank turned cozy bar and cafe, blending historic character with friendly service and hearty meals in Peterculter.
Black's Bar
21.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and lively village pub charm at Black's Bar in Peterculter, Aberdeen.
Brig O Dee Bar
24.3 km
Traditional Aberdeen pub with cozy charm, local craft beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere on Holburn Street.
Abergeldie Bar
24.9 km
Abergeldie Bar blends cozy charm and vibrant nightlife in Aberdeen’s city centre with quality drinks and welcoming vibes.
Holburn Bar
25.8 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Aberdeen offering great food, drinks, and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
