I have lived in Scotland all my life, and only recently have I discovered this absolute gem of a place. Whilst I was in complete awe at it, I couldn't help but feel gutted that I hadn't known it before. It did not disappoint, and now I can't stop exploring it. Always something more to discover. I shall mention a few here; please see the map for further details https://arbroathclifftrail.com/download-map/
The Arbroath Cliffs are a series of rugged cliffs located on the east coast of Scotland, near the town of Arbroath. The cliffs extend for several miles along the coast and offer breathtaking views of the North Sea and the surrounding countryside.
The cliffs are a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, and several trails wind along the cliff tops, offering spectacular views of the sea and the coastline. The area is also home to various wildlife, including seabirds such as gannets, guillemots, and puffins.
One of the most notable features of the Arbroath Cliffs is the Arbroath Smokie, a type of smoked haddock traditionally prepared by local fishermen. Visitors can sample this delicacy at one of the many seafood restaurants in the area.
The Arbroath Cliffs are also steeped in history. They are home to several notable landmarks, including the Arbroath Abbey, a historic abbey that played a crucial role in Scottish history, and the Bell Rock Lighthouse, one of the oldest surviving lighthouses in the world.
If, like me, you too are fascinated with the geology of Scotland, then look no further than the Seaton cliffs, and walk from Arbroath to a quaint little town called Auchmithie. Full of red sandstone formations, these cliffs span just over 8 miles and can take approximately 3-4 hours to complete. But be aware that this isn't for the fainthearted. Some of the walks down to the caves are a little tricky. Be sure to wear suitable footwear. There are also sheer drops from the cliffs to the icy cold waters. Please be careful when approaching the cliff faces, and remember that not all caves will be viewable due to tide times. You will find beautiful, peaceful stops here; you may not want to leave (I sure didn't). The walk is long but not too strenuous unless you are clambering up and down to see the caves. Some people participate in rock climbing.
The walk begins at Victoria Park in Arbroath and follows a geo-diversity trail. There is free parking, toilets (accessible), and a catering van that serves scrumptious food and coffee. They numbered features along the way with wooden posts. They also posted these on the map and are there to help the coastguard locate you should you get into any difficulty. At the journey's beginning, the map will give you a few safety tips and where to locate the caves.
At the beginning of this coastal route, you will see St. Ninian's Well, a historic site. The site is believed to have been used by the early Christian missionary St. Ninian, who is said to have visited the area in the 5th century. The well is located near the cliffs at the edge of the town and consists of a minor, stone-lined pool of water. The water is said to have healing properties and has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries.
You will come across a rock arch known as Needle Eye'. It is a narrow, cylindrical rock arch carved out of the cliffs by the action of the waves.
The path will soon bend to the left, and you will pass a deep inlet. This inlet is called Dickmont's Den. The cave is believed to have been used as a smuggler's hideout in the 18th and 19th centuries, and legend has it that the notorious smuggler, Dickmont Davie, used the cave as a base of operations. It is said that the cave was used to store contraband goods such as tea, tobacco, and alcohol, which were smuggled into the country to avoid paying taxes.
The Deil's Heid (Devil's Head) is a distinctive rock formation located on the coast of Scotland, near the town of Arbroath. It is a large, rocky outcrop that rises from the sea and is named for its resemblance to a devil's head. This is a sea stack that has been formed through the process of differential erosion. The Deil's Heid is also steeped in folklore and legend. It is said that the rock formation was once the site of a battle between the forces of good and evil and that the devil himself was defeated and cast into the sea, leaving behind only his head.
As you continue, you will see Gaylet Pot in a field on the left. This is a collapsed cave. You are only to visit it if the farmer isn't growing crops in it at the time of your visit. Please be careful when visiting it. It is best viewed at the marker pole.
You will soon be nearing the end of this fantastic walk and will see Tanglehall Cottages. Keep walking, and you will soon join the public road leading to Auchmithie.
For those who do not drive, there is ample transport to get you to Victoria Park. Trains and buses will take you 1.5km from the starting point.
I also highly recommend Vin-Tealicious if you want a bite to eat. I had a wonderfully tasty Mediterranean breakfast here, and they have a vast selection of cakes and tea. It is central to Arbroath. Please visit https://vin-tealicious.co.uk/ for more information.
The But 'n' Ben restaurant is well known for its seafood dishes and Arbroath smokies. You can catch a bus back to Arbroath or call a taxi service. https://www.thebutnben.com/
It is important to note that this area can be dangerous, and visitors should exercise caution when exploring the cliffs and rock formations. It is also essential to respect the natural environment and to take care not to damage the fragile ecosystem of the area.
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