📌 Village in Aberdeenshire
★★
Once a popular seaside resort with hotels, golf course and good rail links, Cruden Bay was advertised a century ago as a Brighton of the North. A bit ambitious perhaps, and today’s quiet village has almost nothing in common with the south coast town. But, unlike Brighton, Cruden Bay has sand in abundance, reached by crossing a footbridge over the Water of Cruden. Most of the other scenic interest is reached by continuing along the road towards the harbour or the path towards Slains Castle. Here, dramatic sea cliffs and stacks take centre stage, visited by the worthwhile coast path. Throw in 16th century Slains Castle too, which was possibly the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula; the author was a regular guest at the Kilmarnock Arms in the village, and his signature apparently appears in their 1894 guest book. Interesting stuff… maybe Brighton should aspire to be a Cruden Bay of the South instead?
🌍 Location
📌 Aberdeenshire
🧭 O.S. Grid Reference: NK 091363
🛰️ GPS coordinates: 57.417045,-1.851031
🚶 The beach is quite close to the village centre, and Slains Castle is a pleasant 30-min stroll. There are good coastal walks.
🚌 Cruden Bay is served by buses on the Aberdeen to Peterhead route.
Explore nearby
<1 mi away
>> Bay of Cruden ★★★
>> Slains Castle ★★★
<3 mi away
>> Bullers of Buchan ★★★★ (2 mi →)
>> Whinnyfold beach ★★ (2 mi ↓)
