Location plays an important part when purchasing your forever home, and having an understanding of the local amenities and nearby activities is essential when househunting to ensure your family feels happy and satisfied after moving in.
Situated less than 15 miles south of Aberdeen city centre and offering picturesque coastal views, a bustling town centre and fantastic transport links, Stonehaven has become an increasingly popular place to live for couples and families alike. For those seeking more of a community feel, the nearby town of Chapelton offers a variety of beautifully designed homes that enjoy the same benefits as houses for sale in Stonehaven, albeit, in a peaceful and charming setting. The enviable position of this growing town is in the ideal location for prospective homebuyers to enjoy the best of both areas.
In this blog post, we’ve shared 6 family-friendly activities to enjoy in and around Stonehaven, from sampling delicious treats to making the most of its idyllic coastal location, we’ve got your next family day out in Stonehaven covered!
Stonehaven beach
Approximately 1.1km in length and attracting thousands of visitors each year, Stonehaven beach is located in the heart of this coastal town and provides a mood-boosting setting ideal for a leisurely stroll. A hotspot for watersports enthusiasts, this breathtaking sandy beach is ideally positioned near a variety of pubs and restaurants, offering the perfect backdrop for those looking to enjoy a day out at the seaside.
If you’re travelling from Chapelton to Stonehaven by car, there are a number of car parks located a short distance from the beachfront, meaning no long walks in damp swimmers after a dip in the sea! These car parks include Beach Promenade, Market Square and Railway Station Car Park.
The Promenade
Once you’ve worked up an appetite after a day at the beach, head up to The Promenade to sample some of the finest food Stonehaven has to offer. Award winning fish and chip shop, The Bay, is the perfect establishment for all seafood lovers, and is conveniently located next door to the highest rated ice cream shop in Stonehaven, Aunty Betty’s – the perfect duo for dinner and dessert!
If traditional pub grub is your food of choice, the recently refurbished Molly’s Cafe Bar is also situated by the Stonehaven seafront. Just a short drive from Chapelton, Molly’s is sure to satisfy your breakfast cravings with a delicious Scottish fry up on offer, alongside captivating sea views.
Open air swimming pool
For those seeking a unique swimming experience, Stonehaven Open Air Swimming Pool is a must-visit attraction. The UK’s only art deco Olympic sized seawater lido, this heated pool is open from May to early September and offers a variety of family-friendly activities, including fun sessions for kids, quiet swims and lane sessions and live entertainment at weekends.
If you’re looking to stay dry and watch on from the sidelines, The Splash Cafe provides delicious hot food, hot and cold drinks and sweet treats with free access for everyone – the perfect way to spend a fun-filled weekend in spring.
Tolbooth museum
The oldest building in Stonehaven and located on the harbour front, Tolbooth Museum delves into Stonehaven’s rich history providing a real insight into imprisonment and treatment of prisoners over the centuries. Housed in a 17th century tolbooth, the museum is packed full of fun and engaging exhibits to enjoy and is a must-visit destination for those interested in the history and heritage of Aberdeenshire. It even has a 17th-century jail cell for the whole family to explore!
Dunnottar Castle and woods
Another historical must-see is Dunnottar Castle, a medieval fortress perched dramatically atop a 160 foot rock overlooking the North Sea. Located 2 miles south of Stonehaven and just 9 miles from Chapelton, Dunnottar Castle is steeped in history and known as one of Scotland’s hidden treasures. Playing host to William Wallace and Mary Queen of Scots, Dunnottar Castle is open all year round – but we highly recommend visiting in the spring and summer months where you can admire the breathtaking views.
If you’re looking to explore some nearby greenery, make sure to visit Dunnottar Woods, providing a vibrant woodland walk just 3 minutes drive from the grounds of Dunnottar Castle (or a 40 min walk along the coastal footpath from Stonehaven). This family-friendly hiking trail is the perfect place to enjoy a stroll on a crisp spring afternoon.
Dunnottar Castle also offers scenic picnic seating and a selection of refreshments from the C & L Catering Van, as well as conveniently placed visitor parking – ideal for those visiting from Chapelton!
RSPB Fowlsheugh Reserve
If you can’t get enough of Stonehaven and the surrounding area, make sure you visit the spectacular cliffs at Fowlsheugh, just a short drive from Stonehaven. The largest mainland seabird colony in the North East, RSPB Fowlsheugh Reserve enjoys awe-inspiring views of thousands of seabirds nestling along the rugged cliffs, including Puffins, Guillemots, Razorbills and Kittiwakes.
For those venturing out over spring, you’re in luck! As this seabird experience is limited to May – early August, although provides a stunning coastal walk throughout the whole year.
Visiting Stonehaven couldn’t be easier for Chapelton residents, with the coastal gem and all its family-friendly activities a stone’s throw away!
