Dunnottar Woods and Castle
| Distance | Approximate Time | Height Gain | OS Map |
| 7 kms | 02:30 (hrs:mins) | 70 metres | Explorer 396: Stonehaven, Inverbervie & Laurencekirk |
Description
From the Market Square, head east into Allardice Street. Turn right and follow the road south then west as it passes the police station and courthouse. When the main road turns sharp left, leave it and continue westwards down Low Wood Road. There is a signpost on the left for Dunnottar Woods.
Take the first path leading up through the narrow strip of woodland on the steep slope at the end of Carron Gardens. Bear right at the top of the slope and follow the edge of the field. Pass near the old quarry and join a wider track. Turn right and reach a road near to walled gardens (Dunnottar Nurseries).
Bear left along road to path opposite nurseries entrance gate. This skirts round Gallows Hill. Keep on the main track until you reach the picnic area at the southern edge of the woodland. Leave picnic area car park and turn left onto A957 for a short distance before taking the road on the right (round roofed building at corner).
Follow the road over the hill and past the Maritime Radio Station to a junction near Dunnottar Castle. Turn right then left into the Castle car park. The magnificent fortress is worth a visit. Dramatically perched on its promontory, it appears impregnable and indeed, the gatehouse was said to be the strongest in Scotland.
Take the path that leads along the cliffs and walk north, back towards Stonehaven. The path is clear but as always with a cliff walk, due care is needed, especially with children.
The path rounds Castle Haven and Strathlethan Bay, with lots of birdlife evident, before heading inland past the imposing War Memorial, meeting the road at the top of Bervie Braes. Follow the road down to the town where it rejoins the A957 and it is a short distance back to Market Square.
Access Info
Stonehaven is fifteen miles south of Aberdeen, and has frequent rail and bus services. It can be reached from the south by the A90 and A92. Parking is available in Market Square or the Harbour at Stonehaven.
Start point for the walk is Market Square.
Additional Info
Dunnottar Castle has been used a number of times for filming, including scenes from Zefferelli's version of Hamlet.
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