Wildfire risk
With wildfire risk currently extremely high, we urge visitors to take extra care by avoiding any activity that could start a fire and immediately reporting any signs of smoke or fire to 999 to help protect people and wildlife. Please note, some of our nature reserves are closed due to wildfires, please check before you travel.
Advice on wildfire preventionThu 30 July 2026 12:00 Days out
Fowlsheugh
CrawtonOpenSee opening timesTread the coastal cliff-top walk over grassland to reach the stunning 30-metre sea cliff view. In spring and summer, thousands of seabirds adorn the cliffs, while autumn and winter highlights the choppy seas below.
About
The spectacular cliffs at Fowlsheugh are packed with more than 115,000 breeding seabirds during the spring and summer months. This is the largest mainland seabird colony on the east coast of Scotland, and the cliffs become crowded with Guillemots, Razorbills and Kittiwakes, along with a few Puffins and Fulmars too. If you're lucky, you might also spot Grey Seals and dolphins in the water here.
Although the seabird experience is limited to May to early August, Fowlsheugh provides a great walk for all months of the year. A small shelter at the end of the trail overlooks the breeding ledges.
Running for around three kilometres along the coast, Fowlsheugh is part of a wider Special Protection Area (SPA), designated for its number of seabirds. It also lies within two Site of Special Scientific Interests (SSSIs).
At a glance
12 spaces Car park has limited spaces. If the car park is full please come back to see us on a different day.
Parking on the verges around the car park blocks access for local residents and emergency vehicles.
No height restrictions. No bike racks. Managed by Aberdeenshire council. Not suitable for coaches or caravans. Located 100 m from the reserve entrance.
There are no toilets here. Nearest toilets in Stonehaven, 5 miles (8 km).
There are no toilets here. Nearest toilets in Stonehaven, 5 miles (8 km).
One nature trail, 1 mile (1.5 km) with two flights of steps at the beginning. Unsurfaced and uneven. Width restrictions including 1m gate at reserve entrance.
One nature trail, 1 mile (1.5 km) with two flights of steps at the beginning. Unsurfaced and uneven. Width restrictions including 1m gate at reserve entrance. Perch-style benches without arms or backs at irregular intervals.
There are no toilets here. Nearest toilets in Stonehaven, 5 miles (8 km).
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
The reserve is managed as a safe home for breeding birds, so please keep dogs on a lead at all times. This nature reserve is an important place for wildlife. RSPB Scotland welcomes responsible access, in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. We hope you enjoy your visit
Assistance dogs welcome.
See what’s here
Contact Fowlsheugh
strathbeg@rspb.org.uk Fowlsheugh, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire, AB39 2TP 01346 532017