Built into rising ground, the former station placed boat accommodation above three lower stores so a lifeboat could launch toward Aird Bay.
Quick facts
- Date
- Late 19th century, after 1870
- Architect / designer
- Unknown
- Type
- Two-storey lifeboat house built into a slope
- Designation
- Listed building, Category B (LB40309)
- OS grid reference
- NJ 59243 66057
Architecture, archaeology and continuing use
The harled rectangular building presents a broad segmental-headed boat doorway in its upper gable. Three lower doors open from one side, while mixed ashlar and brick dressings and a red-and-yellow brick chimney distinguish its practical elevations.
Its story
The station was constructed after 1870 as organised coastal rescue expanded. Its sloping site allowed the boat floor and lower storage level to operate separately before the building became redundant.
Why it is included
Category B listing recognises a disappearing maritime building type and an intelligent response to difficult coastal ground.
What to notice
- The large upper-level boat entrance.
- Three store doors below the main floor.
- Contrasting coloured brick on the chimney.
Reading the surroundings
Do not assume the former station is open. Stay on public routes and avoid blocking access or approaching unstable fabric.
Timeline
- After 1870 A purpose-built station placed the rescue boat above coastal stores.
- Operational years Crews used the slope to move equipment on separate levels.
- Later period Redundancy turned a working type into rare survival.
What we know — and what remains uncertain
The exact opening and closure dates, lifeboat service history and current use were not established.
Sources & further reading
- Historic Environment Scotland: Portsoy Old Lifeboat House, LB40309 — Designation status, mapped location, date, fabric and architectural or archaeological interest.
- Trove designation: LB40309 — Parallel national record identity and archival context.
Location
OS grid reference NJ 59243 66057 · Location confidence: High: the national designation supplies an official mapped National Grid Reference; an additional source confirms record identity and archival context. · Select the marker to open its satellite view in Google Maps. On desktop, drag Pegman (the yellow figure) onto a blue road. On mobile, turn on the Street View layer and tap a blue road. Other photo markers may be user-contributed.
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