A beach walk, coffee and playtime in Stonehaven

I usually park beside the open-air pool and leisure centre, then follow the beachfront path into Stonehaven. It’s paved the whole way, making it an easy walk with a pram, and it’s great for bringing the dog along too.

The route takes you right beside the beach, with lovely views across the water as you walk towards the town and harbour. It normally takes us around 20–30 minutes each way, depending on how often we stop, so it’s a nice distance without feeling like too much with little ones.

We usually stop at the Old Pier Coffee House by the harbour for a takeaway coffee and something sweet before starting the walk back.

There are plenty of other options along the way, depending on the weather and what you fancy. You could stop at Auntie Betty’s for an ice cream, head to Molly’s Café for lunch or pick up a fish supper from The Bay. It’s easy to make the walk as quick or as leisurely as you like.

There’s a large play park beside the leisure centre and car park, which is a great final stop before heading back to the car. It gives little ones a chance to play while you finish your coffee!

If the weather isn’t on your side, you can skip the walk and head straight to Scallywags soft play on the beachfront instead. It’s a smaller soft play with a café, so it’s an easy rainy-day alternative.

It’s easy to get parked, the walk is not too far of a distance (around 20-30 minutes one way / an hour overall) and there is something to enjoy for all of the family - coffee for mum, nice views for everyone and the park or soft play for baba!