Peterhead Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Peterhead with our ultimate travel guide, featuring top attractions, hotels, food, culture, and more.


Introduction to Peterhead

Peterhead is a coastal town located in Aberdeenshire, in North East Scotland. The town is well known for its fishing industry and is one of the busiest fishing ports in Europe. Visitors to Peterhead are drawn by its stunning coastlines, rugged landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture. There is so much to explore in and around this charming Scottish town.

List of Places to Visit in Peterhead

Below are some of the top attractions to visit in Peterhead.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. Arbuthnot Museum

The Arbuthnot Museum is an award-winning museum that showcases the history and culture of Peterhead. Visitors to the museum can explore exhibits that depict the town’s fishing, whaling, and maritime heritage.

2. Peterhead Prison Museum

The Peterhead Prison Museum is a former prison that has been turned into a museum. The museum provides an insight into what life was like for inmates and prison staff in one of Scotland’s most infamous prisons.

3. Slains Castle

Slains Castle is a ruined castle that dates back to the 16th century. The castle is located on a cliff top and offers stunning views of the North Sea. It is also said to have been the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

Natural Attractions of Peterhead: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Buchan Ness Lighthouse

The Buchan Ness Lighthouse is located on the northernmost point of mainland Scotland. Visitors can climb the 120 steps to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the sea and surrounding countryside.

2. Bullers of Buchan

The Bullers of Buchan is a dramatic cliff formation that is home to a large colony of seabirds. Visitors can take a walk along the cliff path and soak up the breathtaking views of the rugged coastline.

3. RSPB Scotland Loch of Strathbeg

The RSPB Scotland Loch of Strathbeg is a nature reserve that is home to a wide variety of birds and wildlife. Visitors can take a walk around the loch and take in the beautiful scenery.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Peterhead

Peterhead has several hiking and biking routes that offer visitors a chance to explore the town’s scenic countryside. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Peterhead Coastal Path
  • Buchan Way
  • Formartine and Buchan Way
  • Mintlaw to Longhaven Cycle Route

Best Things to Do in Peterhead: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Peterhead. Below are a few options to consider:

  • Take a boat tour of the fishing harbor and learn about the town’s fishing heritage.
  • Visit the Peterhead Sea Life Sanctuary and see a variety of marine creatures up close.
  • Play a round of golf at one of the several golf courses in the area.
  • Attend the Peterhead Highland Games and watch traditional Scottish sports, such as caber tossing and tug-of-war.

Week-Long Itinerary for Peterhead

Day 1: Visit the Arbuthnot Museum and Peterhead Marina

Day 2: Explore the Buchan Ness Lighthouse and Bullers of Buchan

Day 3: Take a hike along the Peterhead Coastal Path

Day 4: Visit the Peterhead Prison Museum and Slains Castle

Day 5: Play a round of golf at one of the local courses

Day 6: Take a boat tour of the harbor and visit the Peterhead Sea Life Sanctuary

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Peterhead

Peterhead is known for its seafood, particularly its fresh and delicious fish. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cullen Skink: a creamy and hearty smoked haddock soup
  • Fish and Chips: classic British dish of deep-fried battered fish and chips
  • Haggis: Scottish dish made of minced sheep’s offal, oats, and spices

Local Beverages

  • Scotch Whisky: Scotland’s famous distilled spirit
  • Scottish Ale: a type of beer that is brewed in Scotland
  • Irn Bru: a popular Scottish soft drink

Where to Stay in Peterhead: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Peterhead has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

  • The Palace Hotel: a historic hotel located in the town center
  • Holiday Inn Express Peterhead: a modern hotel located just outside the town center
  • Hostel 131: a budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Peterhead

What to Buy in Peterhead: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Peterhead can take home a variety of souvenirs and local products. Some popular options include:

  • Handcrafted pottery and ceramics from the Harry Fraser Ceramic Studio
  • Seafood, such as smoked salmon and lobster, from local fishmongers
  • Scottish woolen tartan products, such as kilts and scarves, from local shops

Local Culture and Customs of Peterhead

The local culture in Peterhead is heavily influenced by its fishing heritage. The town hosts several fishing-related events throughout the year, including the annual Scottish Traditional Boat Festival. Visitors should respect local customs, such as the traditional dress of kilt-wearing Scotsmen, and be mindful of the local language, which includes Scots words and phrases.

Best Time to Visit Peterhead

The best time to visit Peterhead is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and sunny. However, visitors who prefer a quieter and more peaceful experience may want to visit during the shoulder season, from March to May or September to November.

Do’s and Don’ts of Peterhead

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Explore the town’s fishing heritage and historical landmarks
  • Try the local seafood and whisky

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the local environment
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions
  • Steal or damage historical artifacts or landmarks

Safety and Health

Safety in Peterhead

Peterhead is a relatively safe town to visit, but visitors should take normal safety precautions, such as:

  • Keep valuables and personal belongings secure
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
  • Follow all safety instructions provided by activity or tour providers

Health in Peterhead

Visitors to Peterhead should have up-to-date vaccinations and medical insurance. It is also advisable to carry any necessary medications with you. In case of any medical emergencies, visitors can go to the local hospital or medical center.

Getting to Peterhead: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Peterhead

The closest international airport to Peterhead is Aberdeen International Airport, which is about 30 miles southeast of the town. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi, bus, or rental car to Peterhead.

Bus Stations Near Peterhead

Peterhead has a local bus station that serves nearby towns and cities. Visitors can also take national bus services, such as Megabus or National Express, to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, or Glasgow, and then take a local bus to Peterhead.

Other Options

Alternatively, visitors can hire a car and drive to Peterhead from Aberdeen, Dundee, or Edinburgh. The town is also accessible by train, with the nearest train station being in Aberdeen.

How to Get Around in Peterhead

Peterhead is a relatively small town, and most of the town’s attractions and amenities can be easily reached on foot or by bike. Visitors can also take the local bus service or hire a taxi to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Peterhead: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors to Peterhead can explore. Some popular options include:

  • Aberdeen: the nearby city of Aberdeen is known for its stunning architecture, lively nightlife, and vibrant cultural scene.
  • Dunnottar Castle: a stunning ruined castle located just south of Stonehaven.
  • Moray Firth: a beautiful stretch of coastline, home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins and otters.

Conclusion

Peterhead is a charming and welcoming town that offers visitors a chance to experience Scotland’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From its dramatic cliffs and rugged landscapes to its delicious seafood and warm hospitality, Peterhead is the perfect destination for a Scottish adventure.

South breakwater was built by convict labour South breakwater was built by convict labour Old St Peter's Church Old St Peter's Church Slains Castle - ''Dracula'' was written nearby Slains Castle - ''Dracula'' was written nearby Bullers of Buchan Bullers of Buchan