Arbuthnot Museum
A charming, donation-based museum in Peterhead, showcasing local history, celebrities, and maritime tales with a fun kids' play area.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Arbuthnot Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming, donation-based museum in Peterhead, showcasing local history, celebrities, and maritime tales with a fun kids' play area.
"A must-see in NE Scotland, offering an endearing combo of history and fun for all ages."
💰 Donation-Based Entry
Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to support this local treasure. :moneybag:
🧸 Kid-Friendly Fun
Features a dedicated play area with dressing-up and coloring for the little ones. :child:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Local Legends & Celebrities
Uncover stories of Peterhead's notable figures and their impact on the town's history. A true local treasure trove.
Engaging Exhibits for Kids
Interactive displays, dressing-up areas, and coloring stations make it a fun and educational stop for younger visitors.
Maritime Heritage
Learn about Peterhead's deep connection to the sea, its fishing industry, and seafaring traditions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Peterhead's Past
A Free Gem for All
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Donation-Based Entry
Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to support this local treasure. :moneybag:
🧸 Kid-Friendly Fun
Features a dedicated play area with dressing-up and coloring for the little ones. :child:
📚 Adjacent Library
Combine your visit with a trip to the adjoining library for a full cultural experience. :books:
📍 Hidden Gem Discovery
Found by accident, this museum is a delightful surprise for any visitor. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Donation-Based Entry
Entry is free, but donations are greatly appreciated to support this local treasure. :moneybag:
🧸 Kid-Friendly Fun
Features a dedicated play area with dressing-up and coloring for the little ones. :child:
📚 Adjacent Library
Combine your visit with a trip to the adjoining library for a full cultural experience. :books:
📍 Hidden Gem Discovery
Found by accident, this museum is a delightful surprise for any visitor. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Arbuthnot Museum to be an extremely interesting and free destination, offering a delightful glimpse into Peterhead's history and local figures. It's particularly praised for its engaging exhibits for children and friendly staff, making it a highly recommended stop for families and history buffs alike.
"A good old fashioned museum on top of a lovely library. The stuffed animals and plastic robots made an endearing combo and the nooks and crannies revealed info about previous local celebs. A must see in NE Scotland."
paul martin
"Great for the kids. Lovely staff and you find out so much about Peterhead. Plus it doesn't cost much at all. Just a donation."
Kyrie Allan
"We found this Museum by accident and very glad we did.
There is a room that kids can play in with dressing up and there is also a colouring in area too."
Cheryl Jackson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arbuthnot Museum is located in Peterhead, Aberdeenshire. It's easily accessible by car, with local parking available nearby. Public transport options include local bus services that connect Peterhead to surrounding towns and cities. Check local bus timetables for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there are several public car parks within walking distance of the museum in Peterhead town center. Street parking may also be available, but can be limited during peak times.
Absolutely! The Arbuthnot Museum is centrally located within Peterhead, making it easily walkable from most parts of the town center and the harbor area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Arbuthnot Museum operates on a donation basis. While there is no set admission fee, visitors are encouraged to make a donation to support the museum's upkeep and exhibits. :moneybag:
Opening hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official Arbuthnot Museum website or contact them directly for the most current information on opening times and any potential closures.
No, advance booking is typically not required for the Arbuthnot Museum due to its donation-based entry. You can usually just turn up during opening hours.
Information regarding accessibility for visitors with disabilities, including wheelchair access and facilities, should be confirmed directly with the museum. Many historical buildings are working to improve accessibility.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features a diverse range of exhibits, including displays on local celebrities, maritime history, stuffed animals, and historical artifacts that tell the story of Peterhead and its people. :star:
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly! It includes a dedicated room with dressing-up clothes and a coloring area, making it engaging for kids. :child:
A typical visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest level and how much time you spend exploring the exhibits and the children's play area.
Photography policies can vary. It's advisable to check with museum staff upon arrival or look for signage regarding photography rules to ensure you comply.
Guided tours may be offered, especially for groups. It's best to inquire directly with the museum staff about the availability and scheduling of any guided tours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Arbuthnot Museum itself does not typically have an on-site cafe. However, Peterhead town center offers a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants just a short walk away.
You'll find numerous dining options in Peterhead's town center and along the harbor, ranging from traditional fish and chips to local pubs and cafes. :forkandknife:
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique blend of historical artifacts, the charming stuffed animal displays, and the dedicated children's play area. The museum's nooks and crannies offer interesting photographic subjects. :camera:
Photography rules can vary. Always check for signage or ask museum staff before taking photos of exhibits to ensure you are following their guidelines. Some exhibits may be sensitive to flash photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📚 History Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Peterhead's Soul
What truly sets the Arbuthnot Museum apart is its family-friendly atmosphere. The inclusion of a dedicated children's play area, complete with dressing-up costumes and coloring activities, ensures that younger visitors are not just accommodated but actively engaged. This thoughtful provision makes it an ideal destination for a family outing, allowing parents to explore the historical exhibits while children are entertained. The staff are often noted for their friendliness, contributing to the welcoming and accessible nature of the museum.
As a free, donation-based attraction, the Arbuthnot Museum offers exceptional value. It’s a testament to community spirit and the desire to share local history with everyone. This model makes it accessible to all budgets, reinforcing its role as a beloved local institution. The museum’s location, often discovered by happy accident, adds to its charm as a delightful surprise for those exploring Peterhead.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Perks
Beyond the historical exhibits, the museum excels in providing an engaging experience for younger visitors. The children's play area is a highlight, offering interactive fun with dressing-up opportunities and creative coloring stations. This thoughtful inclusion ensures that families can enjoy their visit together, with something to capture the imagination of all ages. The friendly staff are often commended for their helpfulness, further enhancing the visitor experience.
Combining your visit with other local attractions is also a great idea. The museum is situated near the Peterhead Library, offering a chance to explore both cultural institutions in one outing. For dining, the surrounding town center and harbor boast a variety of cafes and eateries, providing ample options for a meal before or after your museum exploration.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit