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

Stonehaven, a charming seaside town in northeast Scotland, offers more than just scenic views. For only $6.99 per person, this self-guided audio tour by VoiceMap Audio Tours takes about 80 minutes to walk approximately 4 kilometers around the town and up to the War Memorial. The tour is ideal for visitors heading to Dunnottar Castle or those wanting to familiarize themselves with Stonehaven’s local sights and stories. It’s a flexible experience, allowing pauses or replays, with offline access to maps and audio on your smartphone. While it requires your own smartphone and doesn’t include entrance fees to attractions, it offers a detailed exploration of the town’s highlights at a very affordable price.

A notable feature of this tour is its focus on historical sites and local legends. From the bronze age cairn in Dunnottar Woods, believed to date back 3,000 years, to the Tolbooth, the oldest surviving building from the 16th century, the tour weaves stories of mutiny, the Titanic, and Scottish Crown Jewels into a lively narrative. If you are curious about Stonehaven’s maritime history, its harbor, with recreational boats and clamming fishing boats, is a highlight. This tour is especially suitable for those who enjoy history, architecture, and local storytelling.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $6.99 providing access to a comprehensive self-guided experience
• Approximately 80-minute walk covering 4 km around Stonehaven and to the War Memorial
• Includes offline maps and audio for easy navigation without internet
• Highlights include Dunnottar Woods, the bronze age cairn, Stonehaven Harbour, and the Tolbooth Museum
• Flexible pacing allows pauses, making it suitable for casual explorers
• The tour requires a smartphone but delivers detailed stories and local insights

Starting Point at 4 Market Lane

The tour kicks off at 4 Market Lane in Stonehaven, a central location near the town’s shops and public transport. From here, the narration begins, guiding visitors through the town’s past and present, concluding at the Stonehaven War Memorial. The end point is conveniently close to the start, making the walk straightforward and manageable within 80 minutes.

Exploring Dunnottar Woods and the Bronze Age Cairn

The journey begins in Dunnottar Woods, where a bronze age cairn stands as a significant historical marker. This ancient site, dating back around 3000 years, offers insights into early Scottish history. The tour notes that in more recent times, the cairn served as a gallows and local execution site, adding layers of dark history to the natural scenery. The proximity to Dunnottar Castle makes this stop especially relevant for visitors planning to visit the castle afterward.

Discovering Stonehaven Harbour and Recreational Boats

A core part of the tour is the harbor, which is primarily used for recreational sailing and clamming activities. The harbor’s name derives from this maritime activity, and the tour details the types of boats present, giving a glimpse into Stonehaven’s seaside life. Visitors get a sense of the town’s fishing heritage while enjoying views of boats bobbing in the water and the lively harbor atmosphere.

The Historic Tolbooth Building

Next, the Tolbooth, dating to the 16th century, is highlighted as the oldest surviving building in Stonehaven. Originally a storehouse for Dunnottar Castle, it later functioned as a courthouse and prison. Today, it operates as a local museum, managed by a community group, offering visitors a chance to explore Stonehaven’s medieval roots and local history.

The Stonehaven War Memorial and World War I Stories

A moving part of the tour is the War Memorial, designed by John Ellis, a local architect who also created the Royal Hotel. This monument commemorates over 200 men from Stonehaven who did not return from the First World War. The narration emphasizes the memorial’s significance, offering a poignant connection to the town’s wartime sacrifices and fostering reflection on local history.

The Tour’s Unique Approach and Practical Details

This self-guided audio tour is delivered via the VoiceMap mobile app, which plays automatically using GPS to ensure timing accuracy. Its offline functionality allows exploration without relying on internet connectivity. The tour is designed as a private activity, perfect for individuals, families, or small groups seeking an intimate and flexible experience. It is important to note that entrance fees to attractions like Dunnottar Castle or museums are not included.

Accessibility and Logistics

The tour starts at 4 Market Lane and ends at the Stonehaven War Memorial. It is near public transportation, making access easy for most visitors. Since it is self-guided, participants must bring their own smartphones. The experience is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and no specific physical requirements mentioned.

The Experience Provider: VoiceMap Audio Tours

The tour is brought to life by VoiceMap Audio Tours, a provider known for offline audio-guided experiences across various locations. The service ensures lifetime access to this tour, with the booking confirmation received immediately. The non-refundable policy means that planning ahead is essential, but the low cost makes it an accessible option for spontaneous or pre-planned visits.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals most to those interested in local history, Scottish culture, and maritime stories. Its affordable price and self-guided format make it ideal for budget-conscious travelers who enjoy walking tours and personal exploration. It’s particularly suited for visitors with a smartphone, keen to discover Stonehaven’s hidden corners and storytelling heritage at their own pace.

Final Thoughts on the Robert Burns, the BBC, and Mars Bars Tour

The $6.99 price tag offers excellent value for a detailed exploration of Stonehaven’s historic sites and stories. Its flexibility and offline compatibility make it a practical choice for a casual day out. The tour’s focus on local landmarks like Dunnottar Woods, the harbor, and the War Memorial ensures a well-rounded experience that highlights both history and scenery.

While it does not include entry fees to attractions, the detailed narration compensates by providing context and stories that enrich the visit. This tour suits history enthusiasts, families, or solo travelers eager to learn about Stonehaven while enjoying a relaxed walk through the town.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as it involves a walking route with engaging stories, but parents should consider the physical requirements and interest level of children.

Do I need a data connection to use this tour?
No, the offline access feature allows you to download all audio, maps, and geodata beforehand, ensuring smooth navigation without internet.

Can I pause and resume the tour?
Absolutely, you can pause the audio at any time, making it flexible to suit your pace.

Are entrance fees included?
No, tickets for attractions like Dunnottar Castle or museums are not included in the tour fee.

How accessible is the tour for those with mobility issues?
The tour covers approximately 4 km on foot; those with mobility concerns should consider their physical comfort for a walk of this length.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers and groups?
Yes, it is designed as a private experience for individuals or small groups, making it ideal for personal exploration.

What kind of stories can I expect?
Expect tales about Stonehaven’s harbor, historic buildings, ancient sites, and stories involving mutiny, the Titanic, and Scottish Crown Jewels.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of historical detail, local storytelling, and the flexibility of a self-guided format creates a well-rounded, immersive experience.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, it operates from June 10, 2019 to July 30, 2026, accessible at any time during these dates.

This detailed, practical tour review aims to give a clear picture of what Stonehaven: Robert Burns, the BBC and Mars Bars offers, helping prospective visitors decide if it fits their interests and travel plans.