Scotland is home to so many beautiful seaside destinations, each one looking even more amazing when the sun is out. However, it’s no secret that a staycation can sometimes cost more than jetting off abroad.
Luckily, consumer experts at Which? have done the legwork, carrying out some research into the best and most budget-friendly coastal towns the UK has to offer. Securing one of the top spots is Stonehaven, a picturesque fishing town boasting gorgeous beaches and an impressive food and drink scene. According to the experts, an overnight stay on this stretch of Scotland’s northeast coast will set you back around £90.
Nestled just a short drive south of Aberdeen, this charming harbour town has a rich history, offering stunning coastal views and an unmistakably authentic Scottish character. The town’s crown jewel is undoubtedly Dunnottar Castle, a dramatic medieval fortress perched atop a rugged rocky headland.
A stroll along the clifftop path from the town to the ancient ruins rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the North Sea, while the bustling harbour below makes for a perfect spot to unwind and watch the fishing boats roll in.
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Stonehaven’s beach is equally impressive, boasting a 4.2 out of five star rating on TripAdvisor. One happy reviewer wrote: “This is such a lovely beach! It has a great promenade from the top of the beach where cafes are right to the harbour.
“We had fabulous weather dry and sunny so made the views spectacular. Well worth a visit.”
According to the latest seaside town survey carried out by the experts at Which?, Stonehaven has also earned rave reviews for its food and drink scene.
It secured a five out of five star rating for its culinary spots, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you love seafood.
The Tolbooth Restaurant is essential for the freshest catch of the day, while the Marine Hotel dishes out classic pub food including fish and chips, steak or beef stew.
Those with a sweet tooth should head to Aunt Betty’s, where you can enjoy an ice cream while wandering along the waterfront. And for the ultimate Scottish treat, a visit to The Carron Fish Bar — the birthplace of the world-famous deep-fried Mars bar — cannot be missed.
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Stonehaven’s beach consists mainly of pebbles and shingle, dotted with numerous rock pools and other interesting geological formations. But if you’re after somewhere a bit more comfortable, Stonehaven’s seawater lido is worth exploring.
The Olympic-sized pool is heated and open from late May until September, ensuring you can always enjoy a dip regardless of the weather.
Other affordable seaside destinations that were inlcluded in the Which? research include Whitby (£94 per night), Llandudno (£85 per night) and Lytham St Annes (£95 per night).