Greyhope Bay and Torry Battery

Standing upon on a windswept headland above the entrance to Aberdeen Harbour, Torry Battery is a fascinating military ruin with lovely coastal views. Today, its ruins share space with the more newly established Greyhope Bay, a hidden gem just minutes from the city centre that is popular for dolphin spotting and scenic walks.

The History of Torry Battery

In response to the outbreak of the Crimean War, Torry Battery was built to defend and protect the Aberdeen Harbour from attacks. Construction was completed in 1860 to replace an older defensive battery that had since fallen into disrepair.

Standing in an elevated position on the southern side of the harbour, Torry Battery has commanding views across the harbour, beachfront, cityscape and the North Sea.

The battery was armed with formidable firepower, including six 68-pounders and three 10-inch shell guns capable of striking ships almost ten miles away!

The battery’s strategic location was utilised during both world wars. Despite not experiencing much combat in World War I, soldiers were trained here before moving to active duty in France. In World War II, anti-aircraft guns were installed to protect from airborne attacks. It wasn’t until 1941 that the Battery first fired in anger – firstly on two friendly vessels that failed to identify themselves and again on a German bomber.

Following the Second World War, the Torry Battery took on an unexpected role as emergency housing during Scotland’s post-war housing shortage. Families lived within its walls until the early 1950s before being decommissioned in 1956.

By the 1960s, the buildings had fallen into disrepair and some were demolished. Today, the battery stands in ruins as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Though not much remains today, it is still a fascinating site that all ages will enjoy exploring.

Greyhope Bay

Beyond the area’s historical significance, the coastal headland is also a popular spot for wildlife watching, photography, and gentle strolls in a peaceful area despite looking across to a busy harbour.

The Greyhope Bay centre, situated amongst the ruins of Torry Battery, is an eco-conscious café and community space housed within a converted shipping container. Entirely off-grid and full of charm, the centre offers what might be the best coastal views in Aberdeen.

Greyhope Bay is a popular destination for dolphin watching. There is an 80% chance of spotting a bottlenose dolphin on any given day here, making it one of most reliable places in the UK to spot these playful creatures. They are often seen feeding and playing at the entrance to Aberdeen Harbour.

Aside from spotting dolphins, the water and skies around Greyhope Bay are alive with seals, minke whales, humpback whales and over 200 bird species also being recorded here.

Whether you’re exploring the ruins of Torry Battery, enjoying a coffee while taking in the stunning sea views, looking out for wildlife or wandering along to the nearby Girdleness Lighthouse, we highly recommend a visit to Greyhope Bay on your next visit to Aberdeen.