NT9169 : Light Keepers Cottages at St Abb's Head

St Abb's Head

95m Elevation
70m Prominence
Scotland Country
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NT9169 : Light Keepers Cottages at St Abb's Head

Mat Fascione Photo source

Explore routes near St Abb's Head

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

St Abbs Circular with seal pups at Horsecastle Bay

3.7 km ~1h Easy

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Berwick Riverside and Walls walk from Station

3.9 km ~47m Easy

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Cockblawburn Beach to Cheswick Sands Coastal Walk

5.1 km ~2h Easy

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Duddo Stones (Standing Stones)

2.5 km ~1h Easy

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Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

St Abb's Head Circular Walk

This popular circular route starts at the St Abb's Head Nature Reserve car park and follows well-marked paths along the dramatic coastal cliffs. Expect stunning views of the North Sea, seabird colonies, and the iconic lighthouse. The route loops back via Mire Loch for a more tranquil section through grassland and wetlands.

5.5 km ~2 hours Moderate

St Abb's Head and Coldingham Bay Walk

This route combines the dramatic cliffs of St Abb's Head with a visit to the picturesque Coldingham Bay. Starting at the visitor centre, the trail ascends to the lighthouse before descending towards Coldingham Sands, where you can enjoy the beach before looping back inland via farm tracks and grassy paths.

8 km ~3 hours Moderate

St Abb's Head via Pettico Wick Bay

This walk begins at the St Abb's Head Nature Reserve car park and takes in the rugged beauty of Pettico Wick Bay. From there, the route climbs to the lighthouse, providing panoramic views of the coastline, before looping back past Mire Loch. A shorter but scenic route ideal for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

4.5 km ~1.5 hours Easy

St Abb's Head and Eyemouth Coastal Path

A more challenging and longer walk, this route links St Abb's Head with the fishing village of Eyemouth. Starting at the nature reserve, follow the coastal path south, enjoying dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and expansive sea views. The return can be made via bus or by retracing your steps.

16 km ~5.5 hours Hard

St Abb's Head via Fancove Head

This alternative route provides a quieter experience of St Abb's Head, starting at the nature reserve and heading towards Fancove Head. The trail then loops back along the clifftop paths to the lighthouse and past Mire Loch. Expect fewer crowds and excellent wildlife spotting opportunities.

6.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

0-99m hill

Elevation

95m

311 ft

Prominence

70m

Coordinates

55.9155, -2.1418

NT912691

OS Map

67

Explorer: 346

At the Summit

The summit is marked by a prominent lighthouse (St Abb's Head Lighthouse) and a viewing platform offering panoramic views of the surrounding coastline.

Terrain & Geology

Cliffs grassy paths and coastal scrub

St Abb's Head is primarily composed of volcanic rock, specifically basalt and andesite, which can be observed in the sea cliffs surrounding the headland. The dramatic cliffs and diverse coastal habitats showcase the area's rich geological history, shaped by volcanic activity millions of years ago.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, hikers can see the Farne Islands, the Northumberland coastline, and possibly spot seals and seabirds.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'St Abb's Head' is derived from St. Aebbe, a holy woman who is believed to have established a religious community in the area in the 7th century.

Historical Significance

The headland is steeped in history, with evidence of early Christian settlements and a rich maritime heritage.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

There is a small car park at the start of the trail located at NT903682, close to St Abb's Village.

Public Transport

Regular bus services run from nearby towns to St Abb's. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Nearby Facilities

There are no facilities directly at the summit, but St Abb's Village has a café and public toilets available.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Beware of steep cliffs and changing weather conditions, as well as slippery paths after rain.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up St Abb's Head?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around St Abb's Head through the maps

Are there other walkers around St Abb's Head?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for St Abb's Head search or of course create your own walk for St Abb's Head

Can I organise a walk to St Abb's Head?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to St Abb's Head.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up St Abb's Head?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to St Abb's Head here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NT912691

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