Stonehaven Clock Tower reopens to the public following programme of improvements

Stonehaven Clock Tower has been reopened to the public following a raft of improvements undertaken by Aberdeenshire Council.

Closed since the Covid pandemic struck, the clock tower - dating back to 1790 with later alterations and additions - also suffered during Storm Arwen, with a top floor window being blown out by the high winds.

 During a recent programme of works undertaken on behalf of the council’s Historic Environment Service, the B-listed tower on the town's High Street has had its electrics and lighting checked and replaced as necessary.

The clock itself has been serviced by specialist company Smith of Derby and cabinetry has been cleaned and revarnished.

A new CCTV unit has also been installed along with a footfall counter.

Volunteers from the Tolbooth Museum will once again be opening the building to the public at the same time as the museum - Wednesday to Monday from 1.30pm-4.30pm - dependent on volunteer numbers.

The clock tower is thought to be the work of Aberdeen mason James Rhind, built by public subscription and known locally as Old Town Steeple - its two bells dating from 1793 and 1887.

The original clock - now on display in the Tolbooth Museum - was made by James Duncan of Old Meldrum in Aberdeenshire. In 1894 it was moved up from its original position and a new face was added.

Cllr Wendy Agnew, chair of the council’s Kincardine and Mearns Area Committee, said: “I very much welcome the improvements undertaken at the Stonehaven Clock Tower which will safeguard it for many years to come. I am also very grateful to the volunteers of the Tolbooth Museum who have agreed to open this historic attraction for the benefit of local residents and visitors alike.”

Andrew Newton of the Tolbooth Museum added: “Alongside the museum, the clock tower is an important part of Stonehaven’s rich heritage and it will be tremendous to once again provide visitors with access to it.”