Welcome to Stonehaven

Stonehaven is located on the River Carron on the far north-east coast of Scotland, in the traditional county of Kincardineshire, approximately 520 miles north of London and 15 miles south of Aberdeen.

The town has a population of around 10,000. Administratively it is within the larger unitary council region of Aberdeenshire which covers an area of approximately 6,313 sq kms and which has a population of around 227,000. The unitary authority of Aberdeenshire devolves power to six smaller area committees who take responsibility for more local services. Stonehaven comes within the area committee of Kincardine and Mearns.

Set against a backdrop of woods and farmland the former fishing port is now a busy seaside resort and touring base for the surrounding area. The town is divided into two parts separated by the river, with the attractive harbour area and old town sitting on the opposite bank to the more recent planned town set around a market square, the two areas being connected by the High Street. There are some notable historic buildings, including nearby Dunnottar Castle, and the 15th century Tolbooth, once used as a storehouse, and later as a courtroom and prison. Of special interest is an event called the Fireball Ceremony held each New Year's Eve at the stroke of twelve. Dating back to pagan times, this involves the town's inhabitants parading in the High Street swinging fireballs, made from wirenetting packed with burning debris, to ward off evil spirits for the coming year.

The town's history dates from the Iron Age when it developed as fishing village. In the 18th and 19th centuries it experienced a major period of expansion when it was redeveloped as a new town with a grid layout. In recent times the town has grown rapidly again as a result of the development of the North Sea oil and gas industries.

Historically the town's economy was based upon the fishing industry. Today Stonehaven acts as an important centre for administration and services, both commercial and public, and there is more focus on tourism and related services. Fast transport links available with the completion of the A90 dual carriageway, combined with the town's attractive location and proximity to Badentoy and Altens employment areas, have encouraged its growth as a commuter settlement.