The best family-friendly hikes and walks around St Cyrus

There are currently 9 family-friendly hiking routes around St Cyrus featured in this guide. Most of these, 8 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children.

St Cyrus offers a fantastic mix of dramatic coastal scenery, expansive sandy beaches, and the rich biodiversity of the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve. The trails are generally easy-going, providing manageable distances and gentle paths that are enjoyable for all ages, making it an ideal spot for getting the whole family outdoors.

The spring and summer months are particularly rewarding for family hikes in St Cyrus. During this time, the flower-rich grasslands of the nature reserve are in full bloom, attracting a wide array of butterflies and insects. The warmer weather also makes beach walks more pleasant, and you have a better chance of spotting various bird species and marine life.

Yes, St Cyrus boasts several unique natural features. At low tide, you can discover a waterfall at the northern end of the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve, specifically the Woodston Burn Waterfall and Rocks. The area is also famous for its dramatic volcanic cliffs and the stunning St Cyrus Beach, offering breathtaking coastal views.

St Cyrus is a haven for wildlife! The National Nature Reserve is home to over 300 plant species, attracting numerous butterflies and over 200 moth species. Keep an eye out for peregrine falcons, buzzards, and kestrels overhead, and various wading birds along the coast. Common lizards can be seen basking in the sand dunes, and offshore, you might spot seals, dolphins, and even whales.

Absolutely! Along some routes, you might discover old salmon bothies, remnants of the area's fishing heritage. The Ecclesgreig Old Church and Nether Kirkyard, dating back to 1242, is another interesting historical point, featuring the grave of local poet George Beattie and a watch hut historically used to deter body snatchers.

Many of the family-friendly trails in St Cyrus are designed with ease in mind, featuring gentle paths. Routes like the St Cyrus Nature Reserve & Beach loop from St Cyrus Village offer relatively flat terrain that can be suitable for pushchairs, though some sections might be sandy or uneven. For toddlers, the shorter, easy loops within the National Nature Reserve are ideal for little legs.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails around St Cyrus. However, as much of the area is part of the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve, it's crucial to keep dogs under close control, preferably on a lead, to protect the abundant wildlife and ground-nesting birds. Always clean up after your dog.

Parking is available at the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve visitor center, which is housed in an old lifeboat station. This provides convenient access to many of the coastal and nature reserve trails, including the St Cyrus Nature Reserve loop.

Yes, several excellent circular routes are perfect for families. The St Cyrus Nature Reserve loop and the St Cyrus Nature Reserve & Beach loop from St Cyrus Village are both popular choices, offering diverse scenery and manageable distances for a family outing.

The family-friendly hikes in St Cyrus are predominantly easy, with 8 out of 9 routes in this guide rated as such. They feature gentle elevation changes and well-maintained paths, making them accessible for most fitness levels and ideal for families with children. There is one moderate route, St Cyrus Beach to Tangleha', for those looking for a slightly longer coastal walk.

The trails around St Cyrus are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the abundance of wildlife, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience for all ages. Many highlight the beauty of the National Nature Reserve and the expansive sandy beach.

While the main areas of the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve and the beach can be popular, exploring routes slightly further afield or during off-peak times can offer a quieter experience. Consider the Johnshaven Harbour – Hidden Treasure Tearoom loop from Milton of Mathers for a change of scenery, or visit early mornings or late afternoons for a more serene family walk.