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Seacliff Beach Walk

0.8 miles (1.3 km)

Ordnance Survey Map Open Streetmap This walk visits the lovely Seacliff Beach near North Berwick. The beach is a hidden gem with a tranquil stretch of golden sand tucked away in East Lothian.
It offers visitors stunning views of Bass Rock, a dramatic volcanic island teeming with seabirds, particularly gannets, which are a sight to behold in flight. On clear days, you can also spot Tantallon Castle perched on the cliffs, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval history. The beach is quieter than others in the area, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll or a family outing.
The beach is known for its unique rock formations, including St Baldred’s Boat, a jagged outcrop associated with local lore, and Scotland's smallest harbour, intricately carved into the red sandstone. This tiny harbour, created in the late 19th century, adds an unexpected feature to the shoreline and is worth a visit. The surrounding area is rich in flora and fauna, from the rock pools that delight children to the coastal paths lined with hardy vegetation like sea thrift and marram grass. Keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks and a variety of seabirds nesting along the cliffs. The nearby ruins of Seacliff House and Auldhame Castle add an air of mystery and history to your walk, with stories of shipwrecks and military use through the centuries.

Seacliff Beach OS Map Ordnance survey map - Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking

Seacliff Beach Open Street Map Open Streetmap - Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking

Further Information and Other Local Ideas

From Seacliff, other attractions are easily accessible. Tantallon Castle is just a short drive away, offering dramatic views and historical exploration. North Berwick itself provides opportunities to visit the Scottish Seabird Centre or take boat trips to Bass Rock. For those seeking more adventure, the expansive Tyninghame Beach and John Muir Country Park are both nearby, offering further walking and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby

Photos

Rock formation, Seacliff

Rock formation, Seacliff

Tantallon Castle from North Berwick Law - geograph.org.uk - 1322356

Tantallon Castle from North Berwick Law

Bass Rock North Berwick Scotland United Kingdom (106347761)

Bass Rock North Berwick Scotland United Kingdom (106347761)

Rocks at St Baldred’s Boat

Rocks at St Baldred’s Boat

GPS Files

GPX File

Seacliff Beach.gpx (On Desktop:Right Click>Save As. On Ipad/Iphone:Click and hold>Download Linked File)