Portsoy

Portsoy is a charming coastal village situated on the banks of the Moray Firth, 8 miles west of Banff and 6 miles east of Cullen in Aberdeenshire. This beautiful port village benefits from spectacular scenery, and Portsoy is acknowledged as having some of the best coastal views Scotland has to offer. Its position on Aberdeenshire’s north coast also means that the village benefits from a relatively mild climate due to the North Atlantic Drift.

History of Portsoy

The village was established as Royal Burgh in 1550 by Mary, Queen of Scots. Its harbour – the oldest on the Moray Firth – was completed at the end of the 17^th century, with a new harbour being completed in the mid-19^th century to accommodate the growth of the local fishing industry. The village’s old harbour today plays host venue to the Scottish Traditional Boat festival which is held every summer. The festival celebrates music, crafts and food as well as the local area’s rich maritime heritage.

Portsoy is also known for its production of Portsoy marble, which was quarried nearby and much sought-after for interior design – even being used in the décor of the Palace of Versailles. Portsoy marble is still in production today and products made with it are available locally.

Things to do in Portsoy

There is a wide range of local amenities in Portsoy and some great countryside and coastal walks for lovers of the outdoors – with the chance to see plenty of wildlife including seals, dolphins and seabirds. Although a small village, Portsoy is also home to a variety of amenities, including a GP practice, a pharmacy, a local supermarket, community library and a range of cafés.

Schools in Portsoy

Portsoy Primary School is situated on the edge of the village and currently has around 180 pupils enrolled. The school also has its own onsite nursery unit, serving around 30 pupils. The primary school feeds into Banff Academy, which is around 8 miles from the village and has a free bus service to and from school for pupils living three or more miles away. Banff Academy currently has around 800 pupils enrolled.

If you’re looking for property to buy in Portsoy, or accommodation to rent – let ASPC help. Our property finder has a comprehensive listing of available flats and houses in the village. These include everything from one bedroom properties to substantial family homes for sale in Portsoy.