Robert Burns, the BBC and Mars Bars: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Discover the Charm of Stonehaven with a Self-Guided Audio Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Northeast Scotland, this self-guided audio tour of Stonehaven might be just what you need to get a real feel for the town’s unique character. Designed to take about 80 minutes, it’s a laid-back way to explore at your own pace, with plenty of stories, hidden corners, and scenic views along the way. Whether you’re on your way to Dunnottar Castle or just looking to soak in some local flavor, this tour offers a charming introduction.

What we especially like about this tour is its affordability—costing just under $7—and the fact that it’s completely offline once downloaded. That means no worries about losing signal in remote spots. Plus, the narration is well-paced and filled with engaging tidbits—from the Bronze Age cairn to local landmarks—and the stories behind the photos that have made Stonehaven famous.

A potential downside? It’s a self-guided experience, so if you prefer a live guide or group atmosphere, this might feel a bit solitary. Also, it’s quite a short tour, perfect for a quick explore, but not a deep dive into every detail. That said, it’s ideal for travelers who enjoy having control over their sightseeing and appreciate a bit of local storytelling.

All in all, this tour suits those looking for a cost-effective, flexible way to see Stonehaven with a friendly, humorous voice guiding them along. If you’re interested in local history, stunning views, and some quirky Scottish tales, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $6.99, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore.
• Flexible & Self-Guided: You can pause, revisit, or skip sections as you like.
• Offline Access: Download once, explore without worrying about internet or data.
• Rich Content: Includes stories about Robert Burns, the BBC, Mars Bars, and more.
• Varied Stops: From Bronze Age cairns to war memorials, there’s a bit of everything.
• Ideal for Short Visits: Perfect if you have limited time but want meaningful insights.

A Deeper Look at the Tour Experience

What’s Included & How It Works

For just $6.99, you gain lifetime access to the tour via the VoiceMap app, which runs smoothly offline—no need to worry about poor cell service. The tour is a self-guided walk, covering around 4 kilometers, which makes it manageable even if you’re not a seasoned walker. You’ll find the start point conveniently located at 4 Market Lane, and the route culminates at the Stonehaven War Memorial.

The app automatically plays the narration at just the right moments using your phone’s GPS. You can pause anytime, making it flexible if you want to take photos or explore a particular spot longer. Since the tour is private, only your group will listen, providing a more personalized experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Bronze Age Cairn in Dunnottar Woods

Your journey begins with a visit to a 3000-year-old bronze age cairn tucked away in Dunnottar Woods. It’s an evocative spot, with a history that hints at ancient burial practices. Interestingly, this site was used later as a gallows and execution site, adding a darker layer to its story. It’s a great starting point to get a sense of the area’s long timeline.

Stonehaven Harbour

Next, the tour takes you down to the harbor, which is primarily used for recreation and some fishing—mainly for clams. The harbor is the town’s namesake, and you’ll love the chance to see the boats bobbing gently in the water, plus some local art displays along the promenade. The narration shares stories behind the photos that have helped make Stonehaven a popular destination worldwide.

Tolbooth Building

One of the tour highlights is the Tolbooth, dating back to the 16th century. Originally a storehouse for Dunnottar Castle, it later served as a courthouse and prison. Today, it’s a museum managed by a local community group. The building offers a glimpse into local governance and justice from centuries past, making it a memorable stop.

The War Memorial

The walk concludes at the Stonehaven War Memorial, dedicated to over 200 men who didn’t return from WWI. Designed by local architect John Ellis, who also crafted the nearby Royal Hotel, this monument is a sobering reminder of the town’s sacrifices. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect and enjoy sweeping views back over the town and coast.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer shared, “We are so glad we downloaded the VoiceMap app and bought this tour for £3.77, which could be loaded onto both of our phones using 1 code. Stonehaven is a beautiful place with more history than I realised.” This highlights how accessible and engaging the experience can be, especially for those with a curiosity about local stories.

Another comment points out that the tour takes you to hidden nooks and carvings you might otherwise miss, making it a good choice for travelers who love discovering local details. The narration’s friendly tone and knowledgeable insights seem to resonate well with visitors.

The Practical Side

The tour’s duration of around 80 minutes makes it manageable for most schedules, whether you’re fitting it into a day trip or want a quick overview. The route covers about 4 km, so comfortable footwear is recommended but not essential. The fact that it’s designed for most travelers and is a private experience means you can go at your own pace, taking breaks whenever needed.

Since tickets are not required for any of the stops, apart from the usual museum or site entrance fees, and the tour is available most days from noon to midnight, it offers plenty of flexibility. Keep in mind, the tour isn’t refundable or changeable, so be sure it fits your plans before downloading.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, and those who appreciate a good story. If you enjoy self-paced exploration with a friendly narration that brings local landmarks to life, you’ll find it rewarding. It’s equally suitable for solo travelers or couples who want to avoid guided group tours but still crave insightful context about the sights.

While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the straightforward route and manageable length make it accessible for older children who can walk comfortably and are interested in Scottish stories. If you’re looking for a quick, affordable way to get a sense of Stonehaven’s history and scenery, this tour hits the mark.

The Bottom Line

In a nutshell, this self-guided audio tour of Stonehaven offers a smart mix of history, local color, and scenic views—all at a reasonable price. It’s a great way to explore on your own terms, especially if you’re keen on learning about Scotland’s past through engaging stories and fascinating sites.

The cost, combined with offline accessibility and custom pacing, makes it ideal for travelers who want a flexible, well-curated experience without the expense of a guided tour. It’s particularly well-suited to those with an interest in local stories—be it Robert Burns, the BBC, or even Mars Bars—and those who appreciate a walk along scenic coastlines with a sprinkle of historical insight.

Overall, if you’re visiting Stonehaven and want an easy, enjoyable way to learn about its background while taking in lovely views, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the route’s manageable length and straightforward narration could appeal to older children or teenagers interested in Scottish history and stories.

Do I need my own smartphone for the tour?
Yes, you’ll need a smartphone to download the VoiceMap app and access the audio tour. The app allows offline use once the tour is downloaded.

Are there any entrance fees for stops along the route?
You might find some sites, like the museum at the Tolbooth, require tickets, but most stops are outdoors or free to explore.

How long does the tour take?
It takes approximately 80 minutes, but you can pause or extend your visit at any point, making it flexible for your schedule.

Can I do this tour on any day?
Yes, it’s available Monday through Sunday, from noon to midnight, giving you plenty of opportunities to schedule it.

Is the tour refundable or changeable?
No, this experience is non-refundable and can’t be modified once purchased, so plan accordingly.

If you’re heading to Stonehaven and want an affordable, independent way to uncover its stories and scenery, this tour could be just what you need. It balances interesting tales with scenic walks, making for a memorable local experience that doesn’t break the bank.