East Head, Portsoy

A short walk to the headland overlooking Portsoy, easy going at first, although it becomes rougher nearer the point. There is also the option of a shoreline scramble for the first section at low tide.

Terrain

Clear coastal path which then becomes rougher and narrow near East Head.

Public Transport

Regular bus service (305) to Portsoy along Inverness - Aberdeen route.

Users' reports

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Start

Old Harbour, Portsoy. Map and directions.

grade
Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

Walk Statistics

Distance: 4.5km/2.75 miles
Time: 1.5 hour return
Ascent: 85m (Profile)
Grid Ref: NJ588662

Maps / GPS

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GPS Waypoints - QUO 2
GPS Waypoints - GPX
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Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

This walk starts from the impressive old harbour in Portsoy. There is limited parking here and also a larger parking area on the east side of Portsoy, near the caravan park. From the old harbour walk east to the right, passing the public toilets. Follow the road round to the right and pass a set of wooden poles used for drying fishing nets.

Stage 2

On the right is the Salmon Bothy, a restored building from 1834 which once housed an ice house with working and living accommodation above. It now houses an interesting exhibition of the salmon industry. Follow the road in front of the caravan park and across the bridge. Cross the grassy area in front of the ruined fishing cottages heading diagonally to the right to the far corner and look for the sign for East Head. Follow the path that heads uphill here. At the junction turn left following the sign post for East Head.

Stage 3

At low tide it is also possible to follow a much rougher path that heads away from the lowest part of the car park and then climbs up from the first little bay to rejoin the main route. There are good views back over Portsoy and the net drying poles can clearly be seen across the bay. Go through a gate and continue on the higher path when the path forks. The left hand fork leads down to the first bay and this is where you come up if you have a taken the coastal option. Soon the path narrows and descends towards the sea.

Stage 4

Keep on the biggest path and follow this until it reaches East Head, after which it does continue to Kings Head but becomes increasingly rough and difficult to follow. The Head is a good place to watch for passing dolphins and seabirds. From here retrace the outward route to return to Portsoy. Turn up to the left passing the Salmon Bothy for a short cut that takes you past some typical houses to return to the old harbour and the start.

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Route Profile

Walking can be dangerous and is done entirely at your own risk. Information is provided free of charge; it is each walkers' responsibility to check it and navigate using a map and compass.