Torry Battery and Girdle Ness, Aberdeen

Girdle Ness is the headland that guards the southern side of Aberdeen harbour. The short walk around it takes in the lighthouse, sea views and Torry Battery - built to defend the harbour in 1860; if you are lucky you might catch sight of one of the dolphins which frequently visit the mouth of the harbour. The walk is closed beyond the lighthouse until 23 April 2019; until then the circuit is not possible and you will need to retrace your steps from that point.

Terrain

Shore path, steps and minor roads

Public Transport

Local bus to Torry district of Aberdeen - or walk from the centre.

Start

The Battery car park. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 3.75km / 2.25 miles
Time: 1 hour
Ascent: 55m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NJ964056

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Walk Description

Stage 1

Torry Battery car park is on the north side of the road that loops around Girdle Ness. There have been cannons and coastal defences to protect Aberdeen harbour since the late 1400s but it was in 1840 that the battery you see today was built.

Stage 2

The battery commands an excellent outlook over Aberdeen harbour. Begin the walk by leaving the battery and heading down to the road, heading slightly left before turning down a path on the right which leads down steps to the shore.

Stage 3

Turn right along the path that follows the coastline, with views out of the pier that carries a white harbour tower. Keep to the right of the wall and gate that blocks the pier entrance and then head up the flight of steps to continue round the coast at a higher level. The path soon comes alongside a car park and then rejoins the road.

Stage 4

The road soon passes round the furthest end of the headland, dominated by Girdle Ness lighthouse.

Stage 5

This elegant structure is 37 metres high, opened in 1833 and was designed by Robert Stevenson.The doors and windows were damaged in 1944 when a mine drifted ashore and exploded. Continue round the road, passing the foghorn, used until 1987 if visibility was less than 5 miles.

Stage 6

Beyond the foghorn the road and walk is currently closed due to construction work; it is expected to reopen on 23 April 2019 - until then you will have to instread retrace your steps.The road gives views across Nigg Bay. Continue until a road junction, and here turn right along St Fittick's Road. This climbs gently back across the headland. Keep straight on when the main road bends left to descend back to the northern side. Turn right along the road and look out for a signed path heading down to the shore on the left. Follow this path back to the bottom of the steps at the start of the walk, enjoying the views of Aberdeen harbour.

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