About
St Abbs Head is a dramatic headland featuring towering cliffs and incredible sea views. It’s part of a National Nature Reserve (NNR) known for its rich birdlife, including puffins, kittiwakes, and razorbills. It includes the headland’s lighthouse, built in 1862 after the ship “Martello” sank in 1857.
Dog Access and Rules
You must keep dogs under close control or on a lead near farm livestock and clean up after them. Although dog waste bins are at the car park and near the start of the walks, none are on the reserve, so you must be prepared to carry your dog’s waste.
Things To See & Do
A walk around St Abbs Head offers breathtaking views of the coastline. You and your dog can explore the rugged cliff paths, enjoy birdwatching, or explore the lighthouse area. The lighthouse is not open to the public, but the remoteness of the headland clearly indicates why it is needed.
If you want to add a beach visit to your day, you have a rocky one within St Abbs or sandy Coldingham Bay nearby.
Access and Facilities
St Abbs Head is easily accessible from St Abbs village. Parking is available at the National Trust car park in the village, and from there, it’s a short walk to the nature reserve. Be prepared for some steep paths, so bring comfortable shoes and plenty of water, especially if it’s a warm day.
While St Abbs Head does not have facilities, the village does have a small visitor centre, cafe, toilets, and local shops.
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