Howe of the Mearns Historical Society in Laurencekirk
Discover the rich heritage and community spirit of the Mearns at the Howe of the Mearns Historical Society in Laurencekirk.
Located at 163 High Street in Laurencekirk, the Howe of the Mearns Historical Society preserves and celebrates the rich heritage of the Mearns area in northeast Scotland. This society serves as a cultural hub, offering insights into local history, traditions, and genealogy, and is an essential visit for those interested in the region’s past.
A brief summary to Howe of the Mearns
- 163 High St, Laurencekirk, AB30 1BP, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the society’s schedule for special events or talks to enrich your visit with expert insights.
- Bring any family history questions or documents for possible genealogical assistance.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the surrounding historic High Street area of Laurencekirk.
- Visit nearby local shops and cafes to experience the town’s welcoming atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
-
Train
Laurencekirk train station is approximately 1.5 km from the society, with regular services connecting to Aberdeen and Dundee. The journey from Aberdeen takes about 30-40 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from £8 to £15. From the station, a taxi or a 20-minute walk along accessible pavements leads to the High Street location.
-
Bus
Local bus services stop near High Street, including routes from nearby towns. Bus travel times vary from 15 to 45 minutes depending on the origin, with fares typically between £2 and £5. Buses run several times daily but check schedules in advance as frequency can be limited on weekends.
-
Car
Driving to the society is straightforward via the A90, with Laurencekirk offering several parking options nearby. Travel times from Aberdeen are about 35 minutes. Parking may require a fee of £1-£3 per hour, and spaces can be limited during peak hours.
Howe of the Mearns location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Howe of the Mearns
A Window into the Mearns' Past
The Howe of the Mearns Historical Society, situated in the heart of Laurencekirk on High Street, acts as a guardian of the local history of the Mearns region, an area steeped in Scottish heritage. This society collects, preserves, and shares artifacts, documents, and stories that chronicle the lives and events of the people who have shaped the area over centuries.Community and Cultural Significance
More than just a repository of historical items, the society functions as a vibrant community center where locals and visitors alike can engage with the cultural legacy of the Mearns. It often hosts talks, exhibitions, and genealogical research sessions, fostering a deeper connection to the area’s roots and traditions.Laurencekirk’s Historical Context
Laurencekirk itself is a small town in the historic county of Kincardineshire, now part of Aberdeenshire, known for its charming streets and proximity to natural landscapes. The town's High Street, where the society is located, is a focal point of local life, blending historical architecture with modern amenities.Exploring Local Heritage
Visitors to the society can expect to find a wealth of information about the Mearns’ agricultural history, notable families, and the evolution of the community through industrial and social changes. The society's archives provide invaluable resources for researchers and history enthusiasts.Preservation Efforts and Educational Role
The Howe of the Mearns Historical Society plays a crucial role in preserving the tangible and intangible heritage of the region. Through educational programs and collaboration with schools and other organizations, it ensures that the history of the Mearns continues to be accessible and relevant to future generations.Setting and Atmosphere
Housed in a building that reflects the traditional character of Laurencekirk’s High Street, the society offers a welcoming and contemplative environment. The atmosphere invites visitors to immerse themselves in the stories of the past, surrounded by artifacts and photographs that bring history to life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Burns Family Memorial Cairn
15.2 km
Honoring Robert Burns’s ancestral roots in Stonehaven with a timeless stone memorial set in scenic Scottish countryside.
Keith's Tower
28.4 km
Discover Keith's Tower near Banchory, a striking 19th-century castellated landmark steeped in Scottish heritage and scenic charm.
Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk
31.1 km
Explore the evocative medieval ruins of Kincardine O'Neil Auld Kirk, a historic Scottish landmark steeped in centuries of religious and local heritage.
Boswell's Monument
31.5 km
Historic hilltop monument offering panoramic Aberdeenshire views and local heritage significance.
Balmashanner Monument
33.5 km
A solemn Scottish Baronial tower honoring Forfar’s WWI heroes with breathtaking views over Angus countryside.
Blairs Museum
34.3 km
Explore Scotland’s Catholic heritage through centuries-old artifacts at Blairs Museum near Aberdeen, a unique cultural and spiritual treasure.
Airlie Monument
35.2 km
Historic Airlie Monument on Tulloch Hill offers breathtaking views and honors the 9th Earl of Airlie’s legacy in scenic Angus.
Scott Wilson Memorial
35.7 km
A powerful granite tribute to Antarctic explorers Captain Scott and Dr Edward Wilson, set in the peaceful hills of Glen Prosen near Kirriemuir.
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
38.5 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
40.0 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.
Duthie Park
40.2 km
Explore Duthie Park, Aberdeen's stunning park with beautiful gardens, recreational activities, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for all nature lovers.
Barry Mill
40.2 km
Explore Barry Mill: A historic watermill museum nestled in the scenic village of Barry, showcasing Scotland's rich industrial heritage.
David Welch Winter Gardens
40.2 km
Visit David Welch Winter Gardens in Aberdeen for an immersive experience of exotic plants and tranquil natural beauty, perfect for all nature enthusiasts.
Queen Victoria Statue
40.6 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Edward VIII Post Box
40.9 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Thornton Castle
2.8 km
Discover the enchanting history of Thornton Castle in Laurencekirk, a stunning medieval landmark surrounded by scenic beauty and rich Scottish heritage.
Farm to Table
3.9 km
Discover fresh local produce, cozy café vibes, and family farm fun at Farm to Table, a sustainable farm shop near Laurencekirk.
Castleton Farm Shop - (PYO Not available)
8.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish farm life with fresh produce, homemade meals, and family-friendly charm at Castleton Farm Shop & Cafe.
Charleton Farm
9.9 km
Experience fresh fruit picking, family fun, and farm-to-table dining in the scenic Angus countryside at Charleton Farm near Montrose.
Langley Park Gardens
11.7 km
Tranquil walled gardens and wildflower meadows with stunning views over Montrose Basin, nurtured with passion and rich in wildlife.
House of Dun & Angus Folk Museum
12.0 km
Explore a Georgian masterpiece with baroque splendor, folk heritage, stunning gardens, and woodland walks at House of Dun & Angus Folk Museum.
Edzell Castle and Garden
13.0 km
Explore the Renaissance charm of Edzell Castle and its unique walled garden, a rare Scottish treasure steeped in history and legend.
Montrose Beach
13.1 km
Three miles of golden sands, family fun, and scenic coastal views await at Montrose Beach in Angus, Scotland’s Blue Flag seaside retreat.
Montrose Museum
13.3 km
Step back into the authentic Old West with historic buildings, guided tours, and immersive exhibits at Montrose’s Museum of the Mountain West.
Scottish Wildlife Trust, Montrose Basin Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve
14.6 km
Discover Scotland’s vibrant tidal estuary and bird sanctuary at Montrose Basin Visitor Centre, where wildlife and panoramic views await.
Kinneff Old Church
14.6 km
Historic 13th-century church famed for hiding Scotland’s Crown Jewels during Cromwell’s siege, preserved as a symbol of national heritage.
Caledonian Railway
15.6 km
Experience the charm of steam and diesel heritage trains on a scenic 4-mile journey through Angus countryside from Brechin to Bridge of Dun.
Brechin Cathedral
16.0 km
Discover Brechin Cathedral, a medieval Scottish masterpiece with a rare Irish-style round tower and stunning stained glass treasures.
Dunninald Castle and Gardens
16.8 km
Explore the enchanting Gothic Revival mansion and acclaimed walled gardens nestled in 100 acres of scenic woodland near Montrose.
The Caterthuns
16.9 km
Explore the twin Iron Age hill forts of the Caterthuns, where ancient earthworks meet stunning panoramic views of Angus countryside.
Essential places to dine
The Brae Cafe
7.8 km
A charming traditional Scottish café in Auchenblae offering homemade bakes, hearty meals, and warm hospitality in Aberdeenshire’s scenic countryside.
Quayside Restaurant & Fish Bar
11.1 km
Fresh seafood and classic fish & chips served with stunning harbour views in the heart of Gourdon’s fishing village.
The Tuck Inn
11.5 km
A cozy British restaurant in Edzell serving hearty meals, desserts, and ice cream in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Roo's Leap Montrose Ltd.
12.8 km
Experience vibrant Australian-inspired dining with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Montrose.
Diamond Lil's
14.3 km
Cozy seaside restaurant in Ferryden serving classic homemade fish and chips with friendly service and harbor views.
The Caledonian
15.7 km
A friendly and inviting pub-restaurant in Brechin serving great food with a cozy Scottish atmosphere and moderate prices.
SeafoodBothy
21.8 km
Authentic Stonehaven seafood served fresh in an intimate, cozy setting with a focus on quality and local flavors.
The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant
21.8 km
A refined seafood dining experience set in a historic harbourfront building with stunning North Sea views in Stonehaven.
The Bay Fish & Chips
22.3 km
Freshly battered fish and hearty chips served with seaside charm in Stonehaven’s beloved coastal eatery.
The Falls of Feugh Restaurant
24.0 km
Experience award-winning Scottish cuisine with stunning waterfall views on Royal Deeside’s scenic River Feugh.
Restaurant at The Lodge
24.4 km
Elegant riverside dining at Banchory Lodge Hotel, blending local flavors with historic Scottish charm and scenic Dee River views.
Banchory Lodge Hotel
24.4 km
A charming 4-star riverside hotel in Royal Deeside offering comfort, local cuisine, and scenic Scottish landscapes.
Scott Skinner's Restaurant & Bar
25.1 km
A charming family-run pub and restaurant in Banchory offering hearty Scottish fare and warm hospitality in a cosy, welcoming setting.
Peggy Scott's Restaurant
25.6 km
A cozy Scottish roadside restaurant offering hearty traditional fare, homemade cakes, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Angus.
The Cowshed Restaurant & Takeaway
26.3 km
A family-owned haven in Aberdeenshire serving simple, seasonal Scottish cuisine with a popular fresh fish takeaway.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mace
0.1 km
Explore Mace in Laurencekirk for unique local goods and a warm shopping experience in the heart of Scotland.
Holly Mae's & Crafts official stockist of Frenchic Paint
0.3 km
Discover Laurencekirk’s creative gem offering Frenchic Paint, handmade décor, and inspiring workshops in a welcoming craft boutique.
Second Treehouse on the Left
0.6 km
A charming children's book and toy shop in Laurencekirk, inspiring young minds through stories and play in a warm community setting.
Miss Mollys Fabric & Yarn Closet
0.6 km
A welcoming fabric and yarn boutique in Laurencekirk, perfect for creative crafters seeking quality materials and expert advice.
The Flower Field
1.7 km
Freshly picked Scottish flowers direct from family fields at Laurencekirk, blending tradition with sustainable local blooms.
Rustic Upcycling Ltd
6.5 km
Discover unique, handcrafted upcycled treasures and sustainable artistry at Rustic Upcycling Ltd in charming Luthermuir.
CherryGrove Bits and Bobs
6.8 km
Explore the charm of CherryGrove Bits and Bobs, a craft shop offering unique handmade treasures and local artisan goods in Fettercairn.
Encore Dress Agency
6.8 km
Discover unique vintage and occasion wear in a charming boutique with exceptional service in the heart of Laurencekirk.
It's a Crafty Life
7.2 km
Discover unique handmade macrame décor and craft workshops in the heart of St Cyrus, celebrating Scottish creativity and artisan spirit.
The Art Shed
7.5 km
Discover handmade art and unique gifts in a welcoming creative space in Montrose’s scenic Craigo district.
Castleton Farm
8.8 km
Experience authentic Scottish farm life with homemade food, local produce, and family-friendly charm at Castleton Farm near Laurencekirk.
Starfish Studio
9.0 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and local artistry in the cozy charm of Johnshaven’s Starfish Studio gift shop.
Edzell Tweed Warehouse - The Tweedie
11.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan gifts, local farm produce, and a welcoming café experience in the heart of Edzell village.
The Paper Shop
11.8 km
A cozy Inverbervie newsagent offering local papers, snacks, and a friendly atmosphere in the heart of Montrose.
Touchwood Inverbervie
11.8 km
Discover handcrafted pine furniture, antique restoration, and unique gifts in the charming coastal town of Inverbervie.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
St Cyrus Village Inn
6.9 km
A welcoming coastal inn blending traditional Scottish pub charm with cozy accommodation and scenic Aberdeenshire surroundings.
Queens Arms
11.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with local ales, hearty fare, and live music at Inverbervie’s charming Queens Arms Pub.
Drumlithie Inn
12.2 km
A cozy, lively pub in Drumlithie offering hearty homemade food, warm hospitality, and vibrant entertainment in a beautifully updated setting.
Black Horse Inn
12.8 km
Classic Scottish pub in Montrose offering traditional fare, a warm atmosphere, and a vibrant community hub on historic Murray Street.
Albert Bar
13.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and lively entertainment at Albert Bar, Montrose’s beloved traditional pub on Market Street.
Market Arms
13.2 km
Historic Montrose pub blending tradition and modern comfort with lively sports, cozy snugs, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Sharkys Bar and Diner
13.4 km
A lively Montrose hotspot where hearty food, creative cocktails, and vibrant nightlife come together in a welcoming atmosphere.
South Esk Inn
13.7 km
A friendly Montrose pub blending traditional Scottish charm with modern craft drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Anchor Bar
13.8 km
A lively Montrose bar offering local brews, cocktails, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere for a memorable night out.
Bridgend Bar & Lounge ( The Brig)
16.0 km
A lively and welcoming bar in Brechin offering great food, local craft beers, and vibrant live entertainment seven days a week.
Station Hotel
21.2 km
A charming Stonehaven hotel blending traditional Scottish hospitality with modern comforts, great food, and a welcoming bar.
Six°North
21.7 km
Lively waterfront pub at The Marine Hotel offering traditional Scottish fare and stunning Stonehaven Harbour views.
Marine Hotel
21.7 km
Experience coastal elegance and warm Scottish hospitality with stunning harbour views at Stonehaven’s Marine Hotel.
Number 44 Hotel & Bar
21.8 km
Cozy coastal hotel and vibrant bar in Stonehaven offering sea views, delicious food, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Cowie Bar @ Recreation Grounds
22.2 km
A welcoming Scottish pub with a scenic beer garden and vibrant community spirit at Stonehaven Recreation Grounds.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
13.5 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
De Vitos Nightclub
31.0 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Arbroath at De Vitos Nightclub, where unforgettable dance parties and vibrant music await you!
Royal Night Club
32.8 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.
Babylon
41.0 km
Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.
491 Union Street
41.1 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.
Club Tropicana & Venga
41.3 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.
Venga
41.4 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.
Number 7 Club
41.5 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
41.5 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
The Mask Club
41.5 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
Private Eyes
41.5 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
The Underground Klub
41.6 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Exodus
41.8 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
41.8 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
Krakatoa
41.9 km
Aberdeen’s iconic tiki-themed nightclub and live music venue, famed for potent cocktails, eclectic rock vibes, and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Scenic
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly