Peterhead and Fraserburgh Coast Guide

Located on the north-east coast of Scotland, Peterhead and Fraserburgh are easily accessible via the A92 from Aberdeen, which is approximately thirty miles south of Peterhead. Fraserburgh is 99 miles from Inverness along the A96/ A98 routes. Peterhead boasts a diverse economy with a focus on fishing, while Fraserburgh is primarily a fishing port.

Peterhead

Peterhead, although not as large as it was 30 years ago, still maintains a robust fishing fleet that lands more whitefish than any other location in Europe. Due to the decline in fishing, the town has developed a diverse economy with a number of major companies, mainly associated with the oil and gas industries, stationed in the town. Visitors are attracted to the harbour area and the numerous local beaches. Five miles south, Cruden Bay offers a long sandy beach, three hotels, and a golf course. The dramatic cliff top ruins of Slains Castle, dating from 1597, overlook the town. The Aberdeenshire area is steeped in history with many ancient monuments, including numerous stone circles that date back to prehistoric times. For more information about these heritage sites across Scotland, visit the Historic Scotland website.

Fraserburgh

Fraserburgh is the largest shellfish port in Europe and also lands a significant catch of whitefish. Other major employers include marine services industries and tourism. Visitors are drawn to the harbour area and the extensive sandy beaches to the east and west of the town. The area offers a wide range of watersports, including diving, surfing, and fishing. Bird watching is also a popular pastime. Golf enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Scotland's favourite leisure pursuit. With around six fish and chip shops in Fraserburgh, there's no shortage of dining options! Kinnaird Castle, dating from 1570, was converted to a lighthouse in 1787. However, the installation of an automatic light nearby rendered the lighthouse redundant. The building now houses The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses and overlooks the harbour.

Places to Visit in Peterhead and Fraserburgh

• Tourist Information Centre - Saltoun Square, Fraserburgh, AB43 9DA Phone: 01346 518315
• Fraserburgh Heritage Centre - Museum of local life - Quarry Road, Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire, AB43 9DT Tel: 01346 513802
• Fraserburgh Ten Pin Bowling Alley - North Links, Seaforth Street, Fraserburgh AB43 9BB - Map Tel. 01346 516663

Explore the Peterhead area further with this handy map: