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Fraserburgh Waters of Philorth

Fraserburgh Waters of Philorth

Aberdeenshire

An extensive, pristine sandy beach some distance from the town area of Fraserburgh itself, and adjacent to the waters of Philorth Local Nature Reserve. Philorth is a popular recreational, surfing and windsurfing area, and was a Marine Conservation Society recommended beach (2006). Improvements have been made recently to extend and improve car parking facilities.

History

Not far from the beach is Cairnbulg castle which is one of the nine castles along the north Aberdeenshire coast. The positioning of the nine castles are perfect to protect the North East of Scotland from Viking raids and coastal attacks. The castle dates to the 14th century where it was ruined and rebuilt by the Fraser family after the Wars of Independence. Today, it is still inhabited by a member of the Fraser family who is also a descendant of Queen Victoria.

Natural Space

The newly developed sand dunes, which are still forming, have altered the Waters of Philorth river course has made this area a great place to learn about the natural environment. From the beach, you can see Cairnbulg Point, where you can watch cormorants resting and you might even see seals. On the mud flats and salt marshes you will also see migrating birds and gulls feeding.

Setting

This stunning north east beach is backed by sand dunes and represents an area of coastline susceptible to Norse invasion. Philorth Beach is two miles south east of Fraserburgh along Fraserburgh Bay which is walkable on foot along the esplanade. The beach can also be accessed Formartine and Buchan cycle routes.

Getting There

Philorth Beach is two miles south East of Fraserburgh on the B9033 - to St Combs. The beach can be reached on foot from the nearby nature reserve car park and also from the beach at the Esplanade (1 mile) which is close to the town centre. This Beach is within a mile of the Formartine and Buchan cycle route. Stagecoach Bluebird run Bus Service 68 from Aberdeen to Fraserburgh Mon - Sat and on a Sunday Service number X67/68. This beach is just a short walk from the last stop in Fraserburgh.

Water Quality Information

This beach is a designated bathing water site. Further information about water quality at this site can be found on the SEPA website. Please observe local signage and only swim where it is safe to do so.

Contact Details

Aberdeenshire Council (Landscape Services)
Visit Website

Facilities

Beach Award BBQ Dunes Family Free Parking Public Rescue Equipment Recreation Friendly Sandy Good for Wildlife

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