Things to do in Peterhead

Peterhead is a coastal town in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, located around 30 miles north of Aberdeen. Although not a typically popular destination for tourists visiting the North East, it does offer a range of activities and attractions to enjoy if you take the time to venture there.

It’s actually where I grew up, so I’d like to think that I’ve got a good idea of what visitors would want to do in this predominantly fishing town.

Here are some of the best things to do in Peterhead:

Visit the Harbour

The Peterhead Port and Harbour is one of the largest fishing ports in Europe and offers a fascinating insight into the town’s maritime heritage. You can take a stroll along the quayside and watch the fishing boats coming and going, or visit the Arbuthnott Museum to learn more about the history of the fishing industry in the area.

I believe that the museum is temporarily closed at the moment, but hopefully, it should open again in the near future.

Visit the Buchanhaven Heritage Centre

The Buchanhaven Heritage Centre is a small museum that celebrates the history of the Buchanhaven area, including its fishing industry and its links to the herring trade. The museum features a range of exhibits and displays, including old photographs, fishing equipment, and model boats.

Go Birdwatching at Stirlinghill Quarry Nature Reserve

Stirlinghill Quarry Nature Reserve is a popular spot for birdwatchers, with a range of different species to be spotted in the area. The reserve covers around 100 acres and is home to a range of birds, including waders, waterfowl, and birds of prey.

Take a walk along the Coastal Path

The Coastal Path is a scenic walking route that stretches for around 8 miles along the coast of Peterhead. The route offers stunning views of the North Sea and the surrounding countryside and is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Visit the Peterhead Prison Museum

The Peterhead Prison Museum is located in the former HM Prison Peterhead, which was once one of Scotland’s most notorious prisons. The museum offers a unique insight into the history of the prison and the lives of the prisoners who were held there.

This award-winning attraction is a fantastic and relatively recent addition to the town. If you’re going to be visiting Peterhead for one thing and one thing only, then make it this.

Visit Aden Country Park

Aden Country Park is a beautiful green space located just outside of Peterhead in the nearby village of Mintlaw. The park covers around 170 acres and features a range of attractions, including a nature trail, a children’s play area, and a variety of plants and wildlife. There also used to be a museum and cafe, but I’m not sure whether these are still open or under renovation.

Be sure to also try and find the treehouse.

Visit the Buchan Ness Lighthouse

The Buchan Ness Lighthouse is an iconic landmark located in nearby Boddam and if you’re visiting Peterhead from the south, then it will be the first thing you see on the skyline as you pass the Bullers of Buchan. The lighthouse was built in the 19th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Go golfing at the Peterhead Golf Club

The Peterhead Golf Club is located just outside of the town and offers a challenging 18-hole and an easier 9-hole course that is suitable for players of all abilities. The club also has a clubhouse where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink after their round of golf.

Peterhead golf course is a links course and can definitely be a challenge on windier days.

Visit Slains Castle

Just a short drive from Peterhead is the famous Slains Castle. Formerly a hotel, this now-ruined cliffside building is said to be where Bram Stoker drew inspiration for writing Dracula following a stay at the hotel many years ago.

Read our full guide to visiting Slains Castle.

Overall, Peterhead offers a range of activities and attractions to suit all interests, from outdoor activities and scenic walks to museums and historical landmarks. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or a longer stay, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming coastal town.

If you fancy staying in the area a bit longer then why not consider Glamping? There’s plenty of choice in Aberdeenshire and we’ve done a guide on the best picks.