Seafield Arms Hotel - Whitehills

The Village

It is believed that the village was established in the early 18th century and speculation exists as to whether it was a result of the highland clearances or not.

Historically fishing was the lifeblood of Whitehills although there was no proper harbour until 1900. Nonetheless, the village could boast over 150 boats through the later half of the 19th century and was the last place in Scotland where fishermen sold their own fish rather than dealing through a merchant.

In 1895 the Whitehills Harbour Trustees was established by an act of parliament which led to the harbour as it is currently seen being completed in 1900. This led to a lifeboat station being opened in 1922.

In 1925-6, the parish church which was originally sited on Seafield Street in Banff, was taken down and transported to Seafield Street in Whitehills where it was reconstructed stone by stone.

1969 saw the closure of the lifeboat station which has recently been converted into a residential property.

The harbour was transformed into a successful marina in 2001 and in 2005 the last fishing boat (BF156 - Budding Rose) discharged its final catch at the fish shed.

The village has a post office, shop, fish shop, ceramics shop, hair dresser and chipper/café. There is a static caravan site at Blackpots and a site for overnight stays next door. The marina has washing and shower facilities as well as wi-fi access. Two halls allow for a variety of village functions throughout the year.

If you wish to correct or add to this brief synopsis of village history, please contact Gary or Rona (details below).