Explore Scotland’s Stunning Berwickshire Coast: Eyemouth to St. Abbs Head Coastal Walk
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for moderately fit individuals comfortable with uneven terrain and sustained walking.
Overview
Discover the dramatic coastal cliffs and vibrant wildlife of the Berwickshire Coast on the scenic 8-mile hike from Eyemouth to St. Abbs Head. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, this trail offers unforgettable views and close encounters with Scotland’s wild marine life.
Eyemouth and St. Abbs Head
Starting at £7.50 | 8 miles / 12 km | Min age 10
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a breathtaking 5-hour coastal walk from Eyemouth to St. Abbs, exploring towering sandstone cliffs and the stunning landscapes of the Berwickshire Coast. Experience the vibrant wildlife of the National Nature Reserve, where guillemots nest in dramatic locations. This unique journey offers unforgettable views and a taste of Scotland's wild beauty.
Come and see the Cave a place of pilgrimage since the 9th Century and some magnificent views of Northumberland!
Rates
Adult (18+): £15.00 Teenager (ages 12-17): £7.50 Child (ages 8-11): Free Private Group (4 - 5 people) £25.00 per person
Duration
5 hours
Level
Moderate
About
Setting off from the attractive fishing harbour of Eyemouth on the Berwickshire Coast, we head north along the coast path. This is a landscape very different to the Northumberland Coast further south. Here, high sandstone cliffs dominate, some of them 100 metres or 328 feet high, giving some exceptional coast walking. Along the way to St. Abbs, we pass through the seaside resort of Coldingham and the village of St. Abbs itself. Beyond St. Abbs, we enter the National Nature Reserve, where in the Spring and Summer, thousands of guillemots nest in impossible locations on the cliff faces and in the Winter, it’s about as wild and lonely as it’s possible to be. We return to St. Abbs for refreshments before catching a bus back to Eyemouth, having completed a walk along some of the best and wildest coast in south east Scotland.
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Polyester cotton trousers; no denim jeans please
- A waterproof coat, waterproof trousers, a hat and gloves; a sunhat such as a baseball cap for sunny days
- Sun screen
- One bottle of water per person, 1 to 1.5 litres is recommended
- A picnic lunch and some snacks
Clothing depends on the season. Please contact us for advice!
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy hiking boots
The rocky, uneven sandstone cliffs require solid footwear for safe footing.
Check the weather forecast
Coastal weather can change rapidly; bring waterproof layers and wind protection.
Carry water and snacks
There are no facilities along the route, so stay hydrated and energized.
Respect wildlife habitats
Keep a distance from nesting seabirds and avoid disturbing the protected nature reserve.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Guillemots nesting on cliffs
- Grey seals along rocky shores
History
St. Abbs Head has been protected since the 1980s as a National Nature Reserve to preserve its unique seabird colonies and natural coastline.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to stick to paths and respect wildlife protections to help maintain the fragile coastal ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Eyemouth
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Protects against unpredictable coastal rain and wind during cooler months.
fall specific
Sturdy hiking boots
Provides grip and ankle support on rocky, uneven cliffs.
Layered clothing
Allows adjustment to changing temperatures and coastal breeze.
spring specific
Daypack with water and snacks
Keeps you hydrated and fueled for the multi-hour walk.
summer specific