
Portsoy Harbour is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Located in the heart of Aberdeenshire, Scotland, this charming harbour has a rich history dating back to the 16th century.
The harbour's picturesque setting, surrounded by stunning coastal scenery, makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers. The harbour is also home to a variety of marine wildlife, including seals and dolphins.
One of the harbour's main attractions is the old harbour buildings, which have been beautifully restored to their former glory. These historic buildings now house a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering visitors a unique shopping and dining experience.
Visitors can also explore the harbour's surrounding countryside, which is dotted with ancient monuments and historic sites, including the 17th-century Portsoy Old Church.
Portsoy Harbour Overview
Portsoy Harbour is a picturesque fishing village on the Moray Firth coast. Located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, it's a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The harbour has a rich history dating back to the 18th century, with evidence of fishing and trade activities found in the nearby old village.
Portsoy Harbour is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with the nearby Bennachie hills offering breathtaking views of the coastline.
History
Portsoy Harbour has a rich history dating back to the 17th century.
The harbour was originally built in 1666 as a small fishing village, with the aim of providing a safe haven for local fishermen.
It was a major hub for the export of fish and other local produce, with the harbour playing a crucial role in the local economy.
By the 18th century, the harbour had grown significantly, with the construction of several warehouses and other buildings to support the fishing industry.
The harbour's strategic location made it an important stopover for ships traveling between the North Sea and the Moray Firth.
Location
Portsoy Harbour is situated on the north-east coast of Scotland, in the Moray Firth.
It's nestled in a picturesque bay, surrounded by rolling hills and scenic coastline.
The harbour faces east, providing a relatively sheltered location from the prevailing westerly winds.
Portsoy Harbour is accessible by car, with a scenic route from the nearby town of Banff.
The harbour's proximity to the A947 road makes it easily reachable by car or bus.
Portsoy Harbour Features

Portsoy Harbour is a stunning example of a well-preserved 18th-century fishing harbour.
The harbour is situated on the north-east coast of Scotland, near the village of Portsoy.
Portsoy Harbour is a small, picturesque harbour that has been in use since the 18th century.
It's a popular spot for sailing and fishing, with a marina that can accommodate up to 50 boats.
The harbour's unique design features a series of stone-built warehouses and a breakwater that protects the harbour from the North Sea.
Portsoy Harbour is home to a variety of wildlife, including seals and seabirds.
Things to Do
Portsoy Harbour is a treasure trove of history and natural beauty. The harbour's quay wall, dating back to 1692, is a must-see for anyone interested in architecture and the past.
You can walk along the harbour's quay wall and take in the views of the surrounding area. The adjacent warehouses, with their considerable antiquity, are a great spot for a photo opportunity.
The harbour's main use is now for recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day out.
Post Medieval

Portsoy's Old Harbour is a must-visit, situated on the Moray Firth.
Located at NJ 58894 66347, this Post Medieval harbour is a significant part of Portsoy's history.
Take a stroll along Shore Street, which runs along the harbour basin, offering breathtaking views of the sea wall and the town.
The Old Harbour is easily distinguishable from the New Harbour, as seen in an oblique aerial photograph taken facing east.
The harbour basin can be viewed from the east, showcasing its town and harbour layout.
Activities
The Old Harbour, dating back to 1692, has a quay wall of vertically set masonry, while its adjacent warehouses are incredibly old.
You can explore the historic warehouses and get a glimpse into the past.
The harbour is now used mainly for recreational activities, making it a great spot for a relaxing day out.
If you're looking for a peaceful experience, the Old Harbour is an excellent choice.
Print Options
Portsoy Harbour offers a range of print options for visitors to capture their memories.
You can choose from a variety of sizes, including A4 and A3, to print your favourite photos or documents.
Signs for Greater Productivity
Installing new signs at Portsoy Harbour would be a more productive and useful solution than simply putting up bollards without evidence of their necessity.
Mr. Reynolds believes that new signs would be beneficial, especially during crowded periods like the festival.
Having been up at Portsoy during the festival and when it's really crowded, anything that would save lives is a good thing, according to Mr. Reynolds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Portsoy worth visiting?
Yes, Portsoy is worth visiting, with its charming town centre and historic harbour offering a glimpse into Scotland's rich history and craftsmanship. Discover the town's unique charm and stunning harbour views.
How old is Portsoy Harbour?
Portsoy Harbour has an "old harbour" dating back to the 17th century, while the "new harbour" was built in 1825. The harbour has a rich history spanning over 300 years.
Does Portsoy have a beach?
Yes, Portsoy has a beach, specifically Links Bay Beach, located in a quiet cove. It's situated near Portsoy Links Caravan Park and the Sail Loft Bunkhouse.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portsoy_Harbour
- https://canmore.org.uk/site/17932/portsoy-shorehead-old-harbour
- https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/aberdeen-aberdeenshire/6547490/portsoy-harbour-buildings-plan/
- https://www.scotlandpaintings.com/collections/portsoy-harbour
- https://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/fp/news/aberdeen-aberdeenshire/5317441/portsoy-harbour-bollards/
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