Ever heard of Peterhead? No?! What have you been doing with your life?!
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Situated up north in Aberdeenshire, Peterhead is definitely a Heeland toon(as they say up there). It is perhaps best known for its port and fishing capacity. Peterhead is often part of the TV show ‘Trawlermen’. It is also one of the very first ‘new town’s’ in Scotland – not the ones they built back in the sixties for miss-placed war families; one built by fishermen in the 16th century. No joke. Port Henry was built in 1539 and since then the town has done nothing but thrive. There are a lot of fish out there.
Fish continues to play a massive part in the Local economy.
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Peterhead was a Jacobite community and fell on the wrong side of the Bonnie Prince Charlie fight. It was one of their main ports through which money and men would come through. Nowadays they have a conjunction of harbours, the most recent of which was built using convict labour. It was back in 1912 but it is still a bit unacceptable. The new harbour has two breakwaters which helped to make it one of the most popular fishing ports in the North.
So if you were going to visit this area on holiday, what would you get up to? We took a closer look to find out!
Peterhead (and what to do there)
Peterhead has some incredible views if you know where to look!
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So if you were to spend a little time in the cold reaches of the far north: what would you do or see (apart from stunning views like the above)? Don’t panic! Five Minutes Spare has you covered! We have our top picks for Peterhead attractions, right here.
Peterhead Prison Museum
Those prisoners we mentioned above? This is where they came from. This former Victorian-era prison is a 6-acre site outside of the town and carries history as the only place in Britain ever used by the SAS to end a siege on the mainland (the notorious 1987 D-Wing Riot). The prison only stopped taking convicts in the late 2000’s, eventually closing completely in 2013. The prison has subsequently become a museum. It holds a thousand, thousand stories within its walls. It’s haunting and terrifying, and you will learn a lot. The promo video below gives you a flavour of what to expect.
New Slains Castle
This 16th-century castle was once a tower house built in devotion by the 9th Earl of Erroll (and the Clan Hay). It has been rebuilt, reconstructed, and renovated more than most. The last time was in 1837 when someone tried to turn it into a mansion. The stone, it seemed, resisted that final overhaul. Nowadays you can find what is left of the castle to the north side of Peterhead, on the coast and perched precariously on the edge of a cliff. It probably won’t be there for very long, so go visit while you still can. Also, avoid it in high winds or risk death by a falling stone.
The Longhaven Cliffs
Those who love the great outdoors will not find this area of the country disappointing. Go north along the shores and you will find the Bullers of Buchan…also known as the Longhaven Cliffs. They are only about 15 minutes outside of town and come with their own tiny car park. Get there early on a Saturday or Sunday if you want to secure a spot.
The cliffs themselves are a puffin nesting place so – and we cannot stress this enough – leave nothing but respect! No litter and definitely no going off the path. Keep your dog on a lead, etc, etc. We would also suggest you avoid this one in deep winter as it will be dangerous… And if you go in summer there are PUFFINS!
The Arbuthnot Museum
The Arbuthnot Museum is one of the oldest in Scotland, dating back around 25 years. That’s pretty impressive, in a land where the most recent invading clan chief tends to burn the history books and replace them with their own. The Arbuthnot is about fishing, fish, boats and er… nets. It details the intricate and detailed history of the fleets and, while some of us might think this sounds terrible, it is a genuinely great place to take the kids. There are all sorts of family activities and exhibits aimed at school-age kids. Go for the day and eat out afterwards… Try the Radar fish bar for the alleged best fish and chips in town.
Peterhead Leisure Centre
If you are looking for things to do in Peterhead with the kids then this should be in the number one spot. It is a safe, family-friendly option for how to spend an afternoon or weekend day. The Leisure centre has its own spaces for hire, some exercise classes, a variety of community groups, and – of course – the obligatory community swimming pool. Take the weans and play all day while you go off and get the shopping done.
Where to Eat, Drink and Party in Peterhead?
Well, we already told you about the best family chip shop in the area – but if you are looking for some fine dining you should try the Waverley Hotel. The Nazma Tandoori is also pretty good if you are feeling more adventurous. If you are up for some continental beers then the best bar can be found at BrewDog Peterhead. You can enjoy some wines at the Caley Bar, or you can dance the night away at the Peterhead Substation. In Peterhead, you are never short of somewhere to party!
Other Notable Attractions
Some of the other sights to see in Peterhead include:
- Balmoor Football Stadium, home to Peterhead FC who made the transition from Highland League Stalwart to Scottish League Team in the 2000-01 Season.
- Take the little ones to the Aberdeenshire Farming Museum to learn all about rural farming(!)
- Visit Aden Country Park in nearby Mintlaw.
So with all these attractions, loads of harbours, and whole stretches of coastline and beaches to choose from, you are sure to find something to suit you in Peterhead!
Not a Lot of People Know That:
Peterhead has a twin town, Ålesund in Norway also a port town.
Still Got Five Minutes?
If you find you are still in need of some entertainment, then you should check out some of our other UK travel guides. With 5 Minutes Spare, you can always be sure of finding the best in entertainment, no matter where in the world you want to get to!
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