A woodland history trail near town / STONEHAVEN

Dunnottar Woods

Dunnottar Woods offer a different outing from the castle: wooded paths, estate-history features and a route that can be shortened to suit the day. The signed History Trail takes in features such as the Shell House and Lady Kennedy’s Bath. Allow time to look rather than treating the woods as a fast link between other attractions.

Before you go

Use the forestry trail information to choose a route. The full History Trail is about 3.4km and includes slopes, rough patches and road crossings.

The practical details

Where to find it: Southern edge of Stonehaven; car park off the A957
Directions and arrival information ↗
Tickets and booking: Walking access is free, with charges at the forestry car park; Blue Badge arrangements are listed by the operator. No on-site toilets or refreshments, so plan those in Stonehaven.
Access and getting around: The moderate History Trail has firm but uneven gravel, roots, muddy sections and some steep slopes. Two quiet-road crossings need care. The approach on foot from town includes a short steep climb.
Official access information ↗
Visiting with children: A shorter woodland exploration may work better than insisting on the full trail. Wear shoes for mud and supervise at crossings; the woods are not an all-weather pushchair route.

Practical information checked 15 September 2026. Confirm anything essential to your visit with the venue.

Make it part of your day

Allow 1–2 hours for the visit, plus travel and breaks. This is a suggested planning allowance; opening times, access and availability may affect your plans.

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