The Berwickshire Coastal footpath runs the full length of the Marine Reserve (and beyond) and is an excellent way to access and enjoy the spectacular Berwickshire coastline. It also provides a series of vantage points for watching seabirds and looking for marine mammals. St Abb’s Head is the best place to go whatever the time of year. With cliffs rising some 300ft out of the sea you can see much further than if sitting at sea level and as the headland juts out into the sea it also gives you a panoramic view. In the summer months there are also the sights, sounds and smells of a seabird colony in full swing. However marine mammals and seabirds can be seen from anywhere along the coast path so walking its length means you cover more ground and so have more of a chance of spotting something.
The National Trust for Scotland Nature Centre on the outskirts of the village of St Abbs is a good place to start a walk around St Abb’s Head. It is well signposted and has adequate car parking. Although small and basic, it is packed with information about the wildlife and history of St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve and the Voluntary Marine Reserve.
Another spectacular way to experience the dramatic coastline of the Marine Reserve is by taking a boat trip. Many of the dive boats will run sightseeing boat trips, especially mid-week when it is quieter. Visit our SCUBA diving page for contact details of local boat skippers.
