Peterhead is situated in Aberdeenshire, at the easternmost point in mainland Scotland.
Peterhead is on a headland that extends around a rocky bay on the Buchan coast, on the North Sea. The town is about thirty-two miles north-east of Aberdeen, and other nearby localities include the villages of Boddam to the south and St. Fergus to the north, with the Buchan area surrounding it.
The geological landscape surrounding the community is characterized by rugged coastlines and rocky outcrops, which have historically provided natural harbours and fishing grounds.
Archaeological evidence suggests that the Peterhead area has been inhabited for more than five thousand years. Excavations have uncovered Mesolithic and early Neolithic stone tools and Late Bronze Age artifacts.
The town itself was founded in 1593 by George Keith, 5th Earl of Marischal, and developed as a planned settlement known as the "Harbour and Barony of Keith Insche." The first population records for the town indicated just 56 inhabitants.
The industrial history of Peterhead is primarily centred around its location on the North Sea and its port facilities. In the early 19th century, whaling was a significant industry. Later, fishing for herring became its primary industry, and it eventually shifted to whitefish to supply local fish processing plants. Today, Peterhead continues to be one of the most important fishing ports in the United Kingdom.
The exploitation of North Sea oil fields boosted the town's economy in the 1970s, leading to the development of food processing and light engineering industries.
The town's harbour, established in 1593, remains a focal point and is integral to its identity as a fishing port. The Fisher Jessie statue in the town centre commemorates Peterhead's fishing heritage. Additionally, the Queenie Bridge, opened in 1954, connects Bridge Street and Greenhill Road, symbolizing the town's historical connection to the sea.
Other notable features of Peterhead include the Reform Monument on Broad Street, which was constructed in 1833. The Reform Tower, built a year earlier, was initially designed as an observatory, although it was not completed. The Peterhead Town House was built to be the headquarters of the Peterhead Burgh Council in 1788 and has recently been renovated after many years of disuse.
As a historic community, Peterhead is home to several historic homes, buildings, and other structures. Its picturesque landscapes and coastal views make Peterhead a charming destination for visitors interested in history, natural beauty, and maritime culture.
Peterhead is a town with a deep historical legacy, shaped by its geographical location and natural resources. Its evolution from a small fishing settlement to a significant industrial hub reflects its adaptability and perseverance. With a population of under 20,000, Peterhead is a small yet thriving community.
As you have probably surmised, this part of our web guide focuses on Peterhead, Scotland. Governmental facilities located in the town, as well as local businesses, industries, schools, places of worship, museums, libraries, historical places, organisations, and events are appropriate topics for this category or its subcategories.
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The Harbour Spring, in Peterhead, Scotland, is a modern pub with a beer garden. Described as a carvery pub, it serves a tasty roast every Sunday, plus burgers, grills, sharers, salads, and pub classics. Overnight rooms are also available, with online bookings. Its menus are published on the site, along with pub deals and special offers, an overview of the facilities, holiday specials, and other special events. Customers may sign up for a newsletter for special offers and upcoming events.
https://www.theharbourspringpubpeterhead.co.uk/
Established in 2016, the Peterhead Fish Company promotes and sells seafood, both wholesale and retail, primarily to customers in the North East of Scotland, with plans to expand throughout the country. The company offers a variety of seafood, including scallops, haddock, and langoustines, rooted in the fish heritage of Peterhead, Scotland. A profile of the company and its operations is provided, along with an online shopping site, refund policies, and recipes.
https://peterheadfish.com/
Established in 1841, the current 18-hole layout (Craigewan Links) began as a 9-hole course in 1892, designed by Willie Park, and was extended to 18 holes in 1908, with a second 18-hole course established in 1923; however, today, it exists as a 9-hole course, referred to as the "New Course." Located in Peterhead, Scotland, the course and slope rating, Craigewan and New courses, and visitor information are presented, along with a members area and introduction to its Pro Shop.
https://www.peterheadgolfclub.co.uk/
Peterhead was founded in 1593, when construction of its first harbour, Port Henry, began. The town portal features contacts for the Aberdeenshire Council, the Peterhead Police Station, Peterhead Fire Station, Peterhead Health Centre, RNLI Peterhead Lifeboat Station, and HM Coastguard Aberdeenshire, as well as contacts for Peterhead Live. Local events, a local business directory, roadworks, weather reports, announcements, and other information for Peterhead residents are provided.
https://peterhead.live/
The Peterhead Port Authority is a significant maritime hub located in Peterhead, Scotland. Known as Europe's largest fishing port, the PPA provides extensive facilities for various industries, including oil and gas, renewables, and leisure. It operates 24/7, offering more than 3 kilometres of berthing space with depths of up to 14 meters. Port areas and services are defined, client listings are provided, and office directions, announcements, and contacts are included.
https://www.peterheadport.co.uk/
Situated within the granite walls of the former HM Convict Prison Peterhead, which operated from 1888 to 2013, the Prison Museum offers historical tours that explore the main halls, cells, kitchen, laundry, and other parts of the former prison. Audio tours with stories from former officers are also available. Other exhibits include the "silent cell," the punishment block, and the "A Frame" used for corporal punishment. There are also activities for children and a cafe.
https://peterheadprisonmuseum.com/
Trinity Boutique is a Victorian townhouse built in 1896. It boasts traditional features such as tall ceilings, beauty, and character. Newly decorated fixtures were carefully selected to complement the building's style, while other elements were added to ensure an enjoyable experience for guests. Also included is a private garden with a wooden gazebo, garden furniture, and a seasonal hot tub. Room photos, features, and amenities are set forth, and online bookings are available.
https://www.trinityboutiquebb.com/
Located in Peterhead, Scotland, the hotel features ten bedrooms to suit various budgets, an en-suite, and the room tariff includes a full breakfast in its dining room. Meals are available in the restaurant in the afternoon and evening, and the bar is open throughout the day for drinks. The address, a map showing its location, and contacts are provided, along with photographs, a description, and a list of amenities are posted on the site, and local attractions are featured.
https://www.waverleyhotelpeterhead.uk/
