Stonehaven Tolbooth Museum
About This Museum
Perched right on the edge of the old harbour, with the North Sea lapping at its stone foundations, the Stonehaven Tolbooth isn't just a museum—it's a survivor. Stepping inside feels like walking straight into the 16th century, where you can almost hear the echoes of smugglers and merchants who once conducted their business here. The low, beamed ceilings and thick stone walls are soaked in history, telling tales far richer than any textbook. It’s a wonderfully intimate and atmospheric place that makes the past feel incredibly immediate.
Collection Highlights
Don't miss the chilling 'Jougs' - an iron collar used for public punishment that still hangs by the door. Upstairs, you'll find a fascinating recreation of a ship's cabin and displays detailing Stonehaven's rise as a fishing port, complete with old nets and creels.
Visitor Information
It's a small, volunteer-run gem, so definitely check their seasonal opening times before you go. The entry is free, but leaving a donation in the old wooden chest is a great way to help keep this piece of history alive.
Architecture & Building
It's a classic Scottish tolbooth—a sturdy, harled-stone building with a charmingly crooked roof that seems to grow directly from the ancient pier.
Contact & Location
Address: Old Pier, Auld Toon, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, Alba / Scotland, AB39 2JU, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 7512 466329
Website: Visit Website
