Gardenstown brings together coastal scenery, fishing history and routes to specific destinations. The village is built on red sandstone cliffs covered by glacial deposits from the last Ice Age. Its buildings nestle on steep slopes and look out over Gamrie Bay. During your stay, the landscape, the history of the fishing village and its walking routes can each take centre stage.

Coast between beach and harbour

There is a sandy beach on the west side of Gardenstown, while crab boats and leisure boats are moored in the harbour. The beach and harbour offer different perspectives on the village: the coast on one side, the boats and the connection to fishing on the other. In summer, sightseeing or fishing trips around the bay may be available from the harbour. If you plan such a trip, check local availability in advance.

Fishing history and church

St John's Church is a late-medieval church of national significance. It lies on the east side of Gamrie Bay and overlooks Gardenstown. The ruins of St John's Kirk recall the village's rich and at times turbulent history. The walk from Gardenstown to St John's Church passes tightly packed fishermen's houses, crosses a beach and then follows a grassy path to the ruined churchyard. After landslides or in wet weather, the path may be muddy.

Gardenstown Heritage Centre is housed in the former Salmon House, overlooking the harbour. The seasonal centre tells visitors about the village's fishing industry. This gives it a different historical focus from the church and ruins: here, the emphasis is on Gardenstown's fishing past. Check whether the centre is open during your travel dates before visiting.

Walks to Crovie and the church

The Gardenstown and Crovie walking route runs from the old fishing village of Gardenstown along an old shoreline route to picturesque, tiny Crovie; the return journey follows a cliff path. The coastal path offers opportunities to spot dolphins. Sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed; seabird activity also varies with the time of year. The two walks have different focuses: the route to the church passes fishermen's houses, crosses a beach and leads to the ruined churchyard, while the Crovie route follows the shoreline route and returns along the cliff path.

When planning your trip, you can first decide whether fishing history, a coastal walk or wildlife watching should be the focus. This can also help you search for accommodation with Gardenstown as your destination: the Heritage Centre is seasonal, trips from the harbour may be available in summer, and wildlife sightings depend on the time of year. Check the availability of seasonal activities, and choose between the church walk and the route to Crovie based on their destinations and routes.

Discover more destinations: Marykirk, Inverurie, Ellon, Johnshaven, Kirkton Of Skene, Aberchirder, Logie, Aberdeen

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