We are the Inverurie Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
From Stonehaven Leisure Centre car park we head south along the beach / boardwalk to the harbour. We climb the steps to the clifftop path. Walking south to Dunnottar Castle.
Dunnottar Castle is the most spectacular of all ruined coastal fortresses, perched on a gigantic rocky outcrop almost detached from the mainland. Once home to the Earls Marischal. The castle has played host to some of the nation's greatest historical figures including William Wallace, Mary Queen of Scots and is famous for its role in saving the Honours of Scotland (the Scottish Crown Jewels) from Oliver Cromwell's army in the 1650s.
We continue inland along a minor road to the Woods of Dunnottar, where we pass the Shell House. Shell Houses became fashionable in the later 18th century and were romantic features to be discovered in designed landscapes. The Shell House at Dunnottar is particularly fine and good examples of such houses are rare.
Paths are firm but have an uneven gravel surface. Long moderate slopes with short steeper sections. Some tree roots and muddy patches. Includes two quiet road crossings. Return through Stonehaven to the start point.
Booking is essential. Please contact the walk leader Elaine using the contact details provided to book, or if you have any questions, by the Thursday evening prior to the walk. Please phone or text. If you leave a message please remember to leave your name and contact telephone number. Confirmation of your booking is required for attendance. It is essential for the walk leader to know who is coming on the walk and to be able to contact people should there be any changes. Please remember to contact the walk leader if you are no longer able to attend.
The walk co-leader will be Geraldine Bruce.
Good walking boots, gaiters, walking poles and waterproofs are advised. Bring food and drink.
Parking: free car parking at the car park next to Stonehaven Leisure Centre/open air swimming pool.
Toilets: are available in the town Centre at Margaret Street. There are no toilets available at the Leisure Centre because it is closed for refurbishment. The toilets at corner of the beach are also closed. The toilets at the harbour were closed at the time of the reconnaissance.
Stonehaven Leisure Centre car park, OS Landranger Map 45
Stonehaven Leisure Centre car park, OS Landranger Map 45
