Discover the Majestic Dunnottar Castle
Explore Dunnottar Castle: A historical gem perched on a cliff, offering stunning views and a rich tapestry of Scottish history.
Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the North Sea, Dunnottar Castle is a stunning historic site that captivates visitors with its breathtaking views and rich history. This iconic castle, located near Stonehaven, has stood since the 14th century and offers a unique glimpse into Scotland's storied past, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
A brief summary to Dunnottar Castle
- Stonehaven, AB39 2TL, GB
- +441569766320
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and requires some walking.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as coastal winds can make it feel colder than expected.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grounds while taking in the breathtaking views of the sea.
- Explore the surrounding area, including the scenic coastal paths and nearby Stonehaven.
Getting There
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Car
If you are travelling by car, start by navigating to Stonehaven, which is located on the east coast of Scotland, approximately 15 miles south of Aberdeen. From Aberdeen, take the A90 southbound and follow the signs for Stonehaven. Once in Stonehaven, follow the A92 towards Dunnottar Castle. There are signs leading to the castle, and you can park at the designated parking area nearby (please note that parking may incur a small fee). The castle is a short walk from the parking area; just follow the pathway along the cliffs.
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Public Transportation (Train)
To reach Dunnottar Castle via public transportation, take a train from Aberdeen to Stonehaven. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes, and trains run regularly throughout the day. Once you arrive at Stonehaven train station, exit the station and head towards the town center. You can either walk (approximately 20 minutes) or take a taxi to the castle. If walking, follow the signs towards Dunnottar Castle, which will lead you along the coastal path. The walk offers stunning views of the coastline.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
Another option is to take a bus from Aberdeen to Stonehaven. Several bus services operate this route, and the journey takes roughly 30-40 minutes. Check the local bus schedule for exact times. Upon arriving in Stonehaven, you can walk to Dunnottar Castle from the town center. The walk takes about 20 minutes. Follow the signs or use a map app on your phone to guide you along the coastal path to the castle entrance.
Discover more about Dunnottar Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Burns Family Memorial Cairn
6.3 km
Honoring Robert Burns’s ancestral roots in Stonehaven with a timeless stone memorial set in scenic Scottish countryside.
Boswell's Monument
13.3 km
Historic hilltop monument offering panoramic Aberdeenshire views and local heritage significance.
Keith's Tower
16.5 km
Discover Keith's Tower near Banchory, a striking 19th-century castellated landmark steeped in Scottish heritage and scenic charm.
Blairs Museum
17.0 km
Explore Scotland’s Catholic heritage through centuries-old artifacts at Blairs Museum near Aberdeen, a unique cultural and spiritual treasure.
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
21.1 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
21.4 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
Queen Victoria Statue
22.3 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Balnagask Motte
22.5 km
Medieval earthen mound marking an early wooden castle, shrouded in mystery and local legend.
Edward VIII Post Box
22.6 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
22.8 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
22.9 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
22.9 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
23.0 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
23.1 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Rosemount Market
23.1 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
Dunnottar Cliffs
0.4 km
Dramatic cliff-top ruins steeped in history, guarding Scotland’s crown jewels and offering breathtaking coastal views.
Stonehaven Harbour
1.6 km
Experience the beauty and history of Stonehaven Harbour, a must-visit coastal gem in Scotland offering stunning views and delicious seafood.
Tolbooth Museum
1.7 km
Explore Stonehaven’s oldest building, a 16th-century tolbooth turned museum revealing Scotland’s rich judicial and maritime heritage.
Stonehaven Beach
2.1 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.
RSPB Scotland Fowlsheugh
3.9 km
Experience Scotland’s largest mainland seabird colony on breathtaking 30-metre cliffs with stunning coastal wildlife and panoramic views.
Crawton Waterfall
4.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Crawton Waterfall, a coastal gem near Stonehaven where history meets stunning sea views and serene nature.
Crawton Bay
4.3 km
Experience breathtaking cliffs, vibrant seabird colonies, and coastal history at scenic Crawton Bay near Stonehaven.
Kinneff Old Church
9.3 km
Historic 13th-century church famed for hiding Scotland’s Crown Jewels during Cromwell’s siege, preserved as a symbol of national heritage.
Castleton Farm Shop - (PYO Not available)
13.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish farm life with fresh produce, homemade meals, and family-friendly charm at Castleton Farm Shop & Cafe.
Portlethen Shore/Harbour/Creek
13.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime heritage of Portlethen Shore, a scenic coastal haven near Aberdeen.
The Den & The Glen
15.7 km
A nostalgic children’s playground in Maryculter where storybook characters come to life amidst scenic, family-friendly grounds.
Barney Sculpture
15.8 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
16.4 km
Experience the scenic beauty and challenging play of Peterculter Golf Club nestled along the River Dee with panoramic mountain views.
The Mains of Drum
18.0 km
A family-run garden centre and award-winning restaurant offering stunning landscaped grounds, local produce, and expert gardening advice in Royal Deeside.
Farm to Table
18.4 km
Discover fresh local produce, cozy café vibes, and family farm fun at Farm to Table, a sustainable farm shop near Laurencekirk.
Essential places to dine
SeafoodBothy
1.6 km
Authentic Stonehaven seafood served fresh in an intimate, cozy setting with a focus on quality and local flavors.
The Tolbooth Seafood Restaurant
1.7 km
A refined seafood dining experience set in a historic harbourfront building with stunning North Sea views in Stonehaven.
The Bay Fish & Chips
2.5 km
Freshly battered fish and hearty chips served with seaside charm in Stonehaven’s beloved coastal eatery.
The Stack Restaurant and Bar
8.7 km
Innovative Scottish dining in a relaxed coastal village setting, blending fresh local ingredients with global flavors.
Mains Of Balquharn Brewers Fayre
13.6 km
Family-friendly pub in Portlethen serving classic British dishes and hearty breakfasts in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Quayside Restaurant & Fish Bar
14.3 km
Fresh seafood and classic fish & chips served with stunning harbour views in the heart of Gourdon’s fishing village.
The Brae Cafe
16.2 km
A charming traditional Scottish café in Auchenblae offering homemade bakes, hearty meals, and warm hospitality in Aberdeenshire’s scenic countryside.
The Himalayas Restaurant
17.2 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors served with warm hospitality in the heart of Peterculter, Aberdeen.
The Ploughman
17.2 km
A traditional Scottish pub and restaurant in Peterculter serving hearty local dishes with warm hospitality and a rich drinks selection.
Borsalino
17.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist in the warm, inviting atmosphere of Borsalino, Peterculter’s culinary gem.
Blairs Restaurant
17.8 km
Refined Scottish dining in a historic country estate near Aberdeen, blending fresh local flavors with elegant ambiance.
The Bieldside Inn
18.5 km
A contemporary English pub and restaurant in Aberdeen offering quality food, warm hospitality, and inviting spaces for every occasion.
The Conservatory Restaurant and Drawing Room Bar | The Marcliffe
19.9 km
Elegant British dining in a historic Aberdeen mansion with refined cuisine, live music, and warm hospitality.
The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa
19.9 km
Luxurious Victorian country house hotel with elegant rooms, fine dining, and a tranquil spa set in peaceful gardens near Aberdeen.
Harvester Ghillies Lair Aberdeen
20.3 km
Family-friendly British bar and grill with unlimited salad, riverside views, and a welcoming atmosphere near Aberdeen’s Bridge of Dee.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
My Beautiful Caravan
2.1 km
Discover unique gifts and charming treasures in Stonehaven’s beloved boutique, My Beautiful Caravan.
Premier
9.7 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
9.8 km
Discover local essentials and delightful treats at The Steeple Shop, your friendly convenience store in Drumlithie near Stonehaven.
The Paper Shop
12.2 km
A cozy Inverbervie newsagent offering local papers, snacks, and a friendly atmosphere in the heart of Montrose.
Touchwood Inverbervie
12.3 km
Discover handcrafted pine furniture, antique restoration, and unique gifts in the charming coastal town of Inverbervie.
Castleton Farm
13.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish farm life with homemade food, local produce, and family-friendly charm at Castleton Farm near Laurencekirk.
Hidden Scotland Shop
18.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and handmade treasures in a charming, character-filled shop nestled in Milton of Crathes near Banchory.
LUXE
18.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at LUXE, a charming gift shop in Cove Bay, Aberdeen, that captures the essence of Scotland.
Starfish Studio
18.9 km
Discover unique Scottish crafts and local artistry in the cozy charm of Johnshaven’s Starfish Studio gift shop.
Sonya Angus: The Unique Boutique
19.2 km
Discover stylish gifts, rustic furniture, and fashion accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique nestled in Cults’ charming Courtyard.
Miss Mollys Fabric & Yarn Closet
20.4 km
A welcoming fabric and yarn boutique in Laurencekirk, perfect for creative crafters seeking quality materials and expert advice.
Second Treehouse on the Left
20.4 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
20.8 km
Discover Laurencekirk’s creative gem offering Frenchic Paint, handmade décor, and inspiring workshops in a welcoming craft boutique.
Gifted
21.0 km
Discover unique and locally inspired gifts at Gifted, Aberdeen’s boutique treasure trove on Countesswells Road.
Mace
21.1 km
Explore Mace in Laurencekirk for unique local goods and a warm shopping experience in the heart of Scotland.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Six°North
1.6 km
Lively waterfront pub at The Marine Hotel offering traditional Scottish fare and stunning Stonehaven Harbour views.
Marine Hotel
1.6 km
Experience coastal elegance and warm Scottish hospitality with stunning harbour views at Stonehaven’s Marine Hotel.
Number 44 Hotel & Bar
2.1 km
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Cowie Bar @ Recreation Grounds
2.6 km
A welcoming Scottish pub with a scenic beer garden and vibrant community spirit at Stonehaven Recreation Grounds.
Station Hotel
2.8 km
A charming Stonehaven hotel blending traditional Scottish hospitality with modern comforts, great food, and a welcoming bar.
Drumlithie Inn
9.8 km
A cozy, lively pub in Drumlithie offering hearty homemade food, warm hospitality, and vibrant entertainment in a beautifully updated setting.
Quoiters Cafe Bar
10.0 km
A friendly and lively bar in Newtonhill offering local ales, weekly bingo nights, and a cozy atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Queens Arms
12.3 km
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The Paddock Bar
12.7 km
A family-friendly pub and lounge in Portlethen offering great homemade food, extensive drinks, live sports, and weekend entertainment.
The Old Bank Bar Ltd
17.3 km
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Black's Bar
17.3 km
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Brig O Dee Bar
20.4 km
Traditional Aberdeen pub with cozy charm, local craft beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere on Holburn Street.
Abergeldie Bar
21.0 km
Abergeldie Bar blends cozy charm and vibrant nightlife in Aberdeen’s city centre with quality drinks and welcoming vibes.
Holburn Bar
21.9 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Aberdeen offering great food, drinks, and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
Foundry aberdeen
22.4 km
Lively Aberdeen pub blending live sports, great food, and vibrant entertainment in a warm, modern setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Babylon
22.4 km
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491 Union Street
22.5 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.
The Mask Club
22.8 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
22.8 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
Club Tropicana & Venga
22.8 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.
Number 7 Club
22.8 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
Venga
22.8 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.
Private Eyes
22.8 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
22.9 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
CHEERZ
23.0 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
Exodus
23.1 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
31.1 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
De Vitos Nightclub
49.2 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Arbroath at De Vitos Nightclub, where unforgettable dance parties and vibrant music await you!
Royal Night Club
53.8 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.
The Attic Club
57.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kirriemuir at The Attic Club, where cozy ambiance meets a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
