The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Royal Burgh Of Arbroath

There are over 25 family-friendly hiking trails around Royal Burgh Of Arbroath, with 15 of them rated as easy, making them ideal for families with children or those looking for a relaxed outing.

The trails often lead along the dramatic Seaton Cliffs, where you can discover impressive red sandstone formations. Look out for natural landmarks like The Needle's Eye Sea Arch and The Deil's Heid Sea Stack. Many routes also pass by interesting caves and coves, such as Carlingheugh Bay and Mermaid's Kirk Cove.

Yes, many of the family-friendly routes are circular, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps. A great option is The Needle's Eye Sea Arch – Mermaid's Kirk Cove loop from Arbroath, which is an easy 6.7 km (4.2 mi) hike.

The duration varies depending on the trail, but many family-friendly routes are designed to be manageable. For example, the Victoria Park Coastal Meadow loop from Arbroath is a shorter option at 3.9 km (2.4 mi), typically taking around an hour to complete at a leisurely pace.

Absolutely! Much of the Arbroath Cliff Trail is within a Scottish Wildlife Trust nature reserve, making it excellent for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for diverse seabirds, butterflies, and wildflowers. With a bit of luck, you might even spot dolphins offshore.

For continuous breathtaking views of the North Sea and dramatic cliffs, consider the The Needle's Eye Sea Arch – The Deil's Heid Sea Stack loop from Arbroath. This easy 6.8 km (4.2 mi) route offers spectacular scenery along the Seaton Cliffs.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of the trails for families.

While most routes are easy, there are moderate options for families seeking a bit more adventure. The East Haven Cove – East Haven Coastal Path loop from Arbroath is a moderate 12.9 km (8.0 mi) route that offers a longer exploration of the coastline.

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for family hiking in Arbroath, offering milder weather, longer daylight hours, and the best chances to see wildflowers and seabirds. However, the coastal paths can be enjoyed year-round with appropriate clothing.

Many sections of the Arbroath Cliff Trail and other coastal paths are surfaced and relatively flat, making them suitable for prams or strollers. However, some areas near the cliff edge or leading to secluded bays might have uneven terrain or steps, so checking individual route details is recommended.