The nature reserve is the perfect place for getting away from it all and to blow away those cobwebs. While walkers who like a bit of a challenge will be rewarded, we also have a short accessible path so that people of all abilities can view the cliffs and hopefully some wildlife too. Whatever you’re looking for – birds, plants, butterflies, archaeology, history, scenery or wildness – you’ll find it at St Abb’s Head.
We offer three trails for people to explore. Experience the thrill of walking along the coastal path on the Discovery Trail and the extended Lighthouse Loop. Further inland, the Mire Loch Loop is beautifully tranquil, contrasting with the windswept and rugged cliffs, and is especially lovely when the gorse is in bloom.
Please take care by keeping back from the cliff edge and always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
Stroll around St Abb’s Head NNR
Be awed by the dramatic cliffs overlooking crystal-clear waters, feel the gentle sea breeze or marvel at the magnificence of a storm-tossed sea.
Walk details
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Difficulty
Moderate
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Time
2–3 hours
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Distance
3¾ miles (6km)
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Ascent
740ft (820ft if climbing Kirk Hill)
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Start
St Abb’s Head NNR car park
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Finish
St Abb’s Head NNR car park
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Step 1
(1/6)Leave the National Trust for Scotland car park and head down past the nature centre and toilets on a wide footpath towards St Abbs village. This path runs parallel to the road.
Reaching a footpath crossroads and a large walled garden, turn left and follow the path for about 200m (with the wall on your right) to the cliffs. There are lovely views from this point.
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Step 2
(2/6)Go through the gate and head along the coastal path.
After about 1km, descend the steep steps to Horsecastle Bay. A grey seal colony is present here in late November/December. Please follow any signage about maintaining a safe distance from any wildlife.
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Step 3
(3/6)Walk around the base of Kirk Hill, with views opening out across the Mire Loch to your left.
The path then heads up to the lighthouse, with more spectacular views along the coastline.
(A steeper option is to go up Kirk Hill, along the cliffs and then rejoin our path at Point 4. This diversion adds a ¼ mile to the route.)
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Step 4
(4/6)Walk along the clifftop path to see (and hear!) the seabird colonies in summer.
Then join the lighthouse road and head to Pettico Wick, taking in further spectacular views of coastline.
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Step 5
(5/6)You can choose to follow the tarmac road away from the cliffs, or head alongside the side of Mire Loch and turn right at the end of the loch to follow a steep track back up the hill to meet the road.
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Step 6
(6/6)Follow the road all the way back to the car park, walking through open farmland.