Stonehaven-Aberdeenshire - Home of Dunnottar Castle by Simon Haughtone
January 18, 2010 |
City Guides-and Information, Travel Guide, Travels
Scotland is an amazing place and home to some of the most interesting towns in the UK. Stonehaven-Aberdeenshire is definitely one of these. It has an abundance of history and charm.
This town is located along the northeast coast of Scotland. It is south of Aberdeen on the Stonehaven Bay, between the Cowie and Carron. Originally, this was a simple fishing village in the Iron Age. It grew out inland from the coastline over time. One of its first names was Stonehyve.
There is a lot of rich history in this area. There was prehistoric inhabitation as proven by Neolithic findings in the past. It has seen many civil wars, and it’s chief tourist attraction today, Dunnottar Castle, was often used to hold prisoners. Throughout the ages up to today, the major industry here was fishing. Trade in herring was phenomenal until overfishing. Today, the main industries are marine related and tourism.
Many interesting landmarks exist in this city that are wonderful to visit. First is Dunnottar Castle. It is situated on a rocky outcrop, and this makes it a great fortress. During the Scottish Wars of Independence, the Scottish Crown Jewels were hidden here. King Edward I claimed the keep, only for William Wallace to retake it in 1297. The ruins are still very much intact for dating back to the Dark Ages. Today it is open to the public, and the town makes a lot of commerce for it. It was also used in shooting scenes of the Mel Gibson version of Hamlet.
Also, make sure to visit the incredible beach along the North Sea. During July, there are Highland games in full garb. Each year there is a fireball festival that is fascinating. Lastly, in the Harbour area, experience the Stonehaven Tollbooth, an old prison that is now a museum and the oldest structure in town.
Stonehaven-Aberdeenshire should be on anyone’s route if they are in Scotland. Its amazing landscape and rich history is not to be missed. It truly has a life all its own.
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Originally posted 2009-09-15 15:59:24. Republished by Old Post Promoter




















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