Visiting Siccar Point

Visiting Siccar Point, just 35 miles from Edinburgh

Siccar Point is a short walk from the nearest road, and it is signposted as part of the Berwickshire Coastal Path, which runs from Cockburnspath to Berwick upon Tweed. Check out detailed directions for getting there by foot or by road below.

One of the best approaches is along the coastal path from Cockburnspath or Cove to the north – this is a 6 km walk on grassy paths and takes about two hours, one way. It gives a great introduction to the geology of this area as you follow Hutton’s route from the north, and “walk back in time” from the youngest rocks of the area to the oldest. You can get to the start of this walk by taking the public bus from Edinburgh or Dunbar to Cockburnspath – makes a great day out! The Borders buses service 253 runs between Edinburgh and Berwick upon Tweed, stopping at Cockburnspath.

Safety note: Siccar Point itself is at the foot of a steep grassy slope, which can be treacherous. The key features can be observed from the top of the slope.

Cockburnspath Community Shop

The shop is a great spot to pick up lunch on your way to Siccar Point. They have a coffee machine, filled rolls daily and offer homemade soup alongside hot pies, bridies and sausage rolls. Orders can be prepared for collection. And there is parking, table and chairs outside and a toilet. Check out their Facebook page for opening times and contact information.

Walking Route from Cockburnspath/Cove

Route Map – www.plotaroute.com/route/3248353

The waymarked Coastal Path (and part of the Southern Upland Way) is a level, easy path along the clifftop, with great views of Carboniferous sedimentary rocks and the Old Red Sandstone exposed on the shore. The path meets a minor road and descends to the entrance to the Pease Bay Caravan Site. From there, across a ford, the road climbs steeply, and a set of steps to the left of the road takes you back to the cliff top for a short distance before you join the minor road which leads to Drysdales vegetable processing site, located in the Old Cambus Quarry. Follow this road for 180 metres to the start of the Deep Time Trail.

Walking the final mile to Siccar Point – the Deep Time Trail

From the start point of the Deep Time Trail, follow the waymarkers through the gate and turn right towards St Helen’s Kirk. Once past the Kirk, the trail continues along the edge of two fields to a viewpoint above Siccar Point.

Getting there by road

From the A1 south of Cockburnspath, take the A1107 towards Coldingham. After 1 km, this goes over a narrow (single track) stone bridge over Pease Dean. 400 m past the bridge, turn left (signposted Pease Bay). After another 400 m, ignore the second sign for Pease Bay and keep straight on (signposted for RK Drysdales). After the cattle grid, look out for the start of the Deep Time Trail on the left. There is some parking on the righthand side of the road, and at a car park 500 metres further along the road. Please park responsibly, don’t block farm gates and leave space for large vehicles to pass.

Walking the final mile to Siccar Point – the Deep Time Trail