- Peterhead is often referred to as 'The Blue Toon,' a nickname traditionally attributed to the blue-coloured woollen stockings worn by the local fishermen in centuries past.
- The town's harbour is one of the largest in Scotland and remains the base for a significant portion of the UK's North Sea fishing fleet.
- In the 19th century, Peterhead was the leading whaling port in the United Kingdom, sending ships as far as the Arctic.
- The town was originally established as a planned settlement in the late 16th century by George Keith, the 5th Earl Marischal.
About Peterhead
Located on the most easterly point of mainland Scotland, Peterhead is historically defined by its status as one of Europe’s premier whitefish ports. The town serves as a functional hub for the North Sea energy industry while maintaining a deep maritime heritage preserved in institutions like the Arbuthnot Museum Peterhead. Visitors can explore the rugged coastline at the Bullers of Buchan or tour the imposing cells of the Peterhead Prison Museum. The local landscape is marked by historic structures like Inverugie Castle and the tranquil setting of Dales Park Pavillion.
Highlights of Peterhead
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Museums
Tour the high-security blocks of this former convict prison to understand the history of Scotland’s most notorious inmates.
Natural attractions
Observe colonies of seabirds nesting on the dramatic, steep-sided sea cliffs and deep rock arches of this coastal chasm.
Museums
View extensive collections focusing on maritime history, local whaling artifacts, and the town's unique cultural heritage.
Museums
Examine the local community's historical connection to the sea within a dedicated space in the Buchanhaven district.
Historical places
Explore the atmospheric ruins of this 16th-century fortress, once a major seat of the Keith family.
Places of interest
Follow the mapped route to discover key historical markers and points of interest spread throughout the town.
Beaches and ponds
Watch the active fishing and commercial vessels navigate the busy waters of this primary northeast port.
Parks
Enjoy a quiet walk through these maintained public green spaces favored by the local community.
Top things to do in Peterhead
The 33 highest-rated places in Peterhead, ranked by travellers.
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Museums
Peterhead Prison Museum, formerly known as HMP Peterhead, occupies a decommissioned Victorian-era penitentiary that oper...
2
Historical places
Slains Castle is an 16th-century ruin situated on the cliff edge overlooking the North Sea in Aberdeenshire. The site fe...
3
Natural attractions
The Bullers of Buchan is a collapsed sea cave forming a large, steep-sided circular chasm open to the North Sea. The sit...
4
Museums
The Museum of Scottish Lighthouses is located in Fraserburgh and incorporates the 1787 Kinnaird Head Lighthouse, the fir...
5
Beaches and ponds
New Aberdour Beach is a secluded shingle and sand cove located on the Aberdeenshire coastline, distinct for its dramatic...
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Parks
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Beaches and ponds
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Places of interest
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Natural attractions
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Beaches and ponds
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Temples
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Parks
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Temples
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Museums
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Museums
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Places of interest
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Historical places
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Temples
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Museums
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Peterhead on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Peterhead
Late spring to early autumn, specifically June through August, offers the mildest temperatures and longest daylight hours for coastal exploration.
2 days
The town centre is highly walkable, though a car is recommended for reaching coastal sites like the Bullers of Buchan.
Stay in the town centre to be within walking distance of the harbor and major heritage museums, or look for coastal guesthouses towards Buchanhaven.
Mid-range; accommodation and dining costs in the Aberdeenshire region are generally lower than in major Scottish cities.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 33 curated attractions in and around Peterhead, ranked by traveller ratings.
Peterhead Prison Museum is the highest-rated place to visit in Peterhead right now.
The largest category is temples, with 10 places to explore.
Travellers also explore London, North Kensington, Manchester.
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