Stonehaven is a haven for foodies and day-trippers
For connoisseurs of fish and chips in Scotland, one town is the ultimate go-to: Stonehaven, nestled along the stunning Aberdeenshire coastline – and as the birthplace of the iconic deep-fried Mars Bar, its place in British culinary lore is cemented.
Despite its modest population of just over 11,000, Stonehaven boasts four chip shops catering to locals, tourists, and day-trippers alike. Impressively, two of these were ranked among the UK’s top 40 by the National Federation of Fish Friers, as reported by the Scottish Daily Express.
Both Redcloak Fish Bar and Carron Fish Bar secured spots on this prestigious list, with patrons lauding the quality of their fare.
Redcloak, situated away from the famed harbour, is celebrated for its particularly scrumptious fish, while the Carron claims to be the origin of the legendary deep-fried Mars bar, although it was known as Haven Chip Bar at the time, according to the Daily Record.
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As per Google reviews, the Carron shares the town’s top spot with Bay Fish and Chips, a local stalwart that has garnered more than 90 awards over the years. However, it’s John Davie, the owner of the Carron, who is credited with first frying a Mars Bar there in 1992, reports the Express.
Even Meyden, the less renowned chippie, holds an impressive 4.2-star rating, with numerous glowing five-star reviews.
Aberdeenshire is a haven for chip shop enthusiasts, boasting six of Scotland’s top ten establishments as ranked by the National Federation, all situated within the region or nearby Aberdeen.
Stonehaven isn’t just famed for its exceptional fish and chips. Its beach, a blend of sand and pebble, was honoured with a Keep Scotland Beautiful award earlier this year, recognising its cleanliness, facilities, and accessibility.
The lively harbour invites visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll to work off those extra calories, while the Stonehaven Tolbooth Museum on the seafront provides a glimpse into the town’s history.
Not far away, the dramatic ruins of Dunnotter Castle perch atop a 160-foot rock, creating one of Scotland’s most iconic vistas.
The cliffs surrounding Stonehaven are teeming with tens of thousands of seabirds, and the town becomes a hive of activity during the famous Stonehaven Fireballs event, which rings in the New Year with a spectacular fiery spectacle.
Located roughly 15 miles south of Aberdeen, Stonehaven can be reached by car from Glasgow or Edinburgh in about two and a half hours.
In related news, Scotland’s favourite fish and chip shop was recently revealed in the eagerly awaited Deliveroo Restaurant Awards.
Sea Salt and Sole, operating four branches across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, in Dyce, Bridge of Don, Cove, and Ellon, clinched the title of Best Fish and Chips in Scotland 2025.
Famed for utilising freshly caught fish and locally sourced ingredients, Sea Salt and Sole has captivated food enthusiasts with its signature double-cooked chips that perfectly complement a variety of dishes. The menu evolves with the seasons, with scrupulous care given to every detail, from the selection of potato varieties to the precise frying temperatures.