Attractions and Places To See around St Cyrus - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around St Cyrus include a diverse range of natural features, historical sites, and coastal landscapes. This area in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is characterized by dramatic coastlines, significant nature reserves, and intriguing landmarks. Visitors can explore a long sandy beach, towering cliffs, and sites with a rich history. The region offers opportunities to experience both its natural beauty and its cultural heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around St Cyrus
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Last updated: May 5, 2026
Scurdie Ness Lighthouse – TGO Challenge Finish Point
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St Cyrus National Nature Reserve
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Ecclesgreig Old Church and Nether Kirkyard
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Inverbervie
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Ferryden Viaduct
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Built in 1878 by the North British Railway, the dual purpose …
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If you are looking for a coastal walk with stunning views, diverse wildlife and rich history, you might want to visit St Cyrus National Nature Reserve. This reserve is located on the north-east coast of Scotland, between the village of St Cyrus and the North Sea. It has a warm and sunny microclimate, thanks to the shelter provided by the inland cliffs and the sand dunes. You can enjoy the sight of colourful wildflowers, rare butterflies, lizards and birds, as well as explore the remains of an old lifeboat station and a salmon fishing station. The reserve is open all year round and has a visitor centre, toilets and parking facilities
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If you are interested in visiting a historic site with a long history of worship, you might want to check out Ecclesgreig old church in St Cyrus. This church, which was dedicated in 1242 and went out of use in 1632, is located within a peaceful burial ground near the sea. You can see some old headstones and table tombs with coats of arms and mortality symbols, as well as the ruins of the church itself. There is also a watchhouse that was used to deter bodysnatchers in the 18th century. The site is also known as Nether Kirkyard or St Cyrus Old Church.
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Fabulous nature reserve. There’s a waterfall at the northern end accessible at low tide.
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Pretty old ruined church in a remote location between the sand dunes and the cliffs. We saw deer nearby.
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The lighthouse on Scurdie Ness was opened in 1870 after the local population requested one following several wrecks. It was automated in 1987. The headland makes a great ride on its own or as part of a longer loop. The road out along the northern coast is access to the lighthouse only so you're unlikely to see many cars but you might spot seals, dolphins and whales.
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Inverbervie which means mouth of the River Bervie is a small coastal town on the North Sea coast. It dates to at least the 12th century although it's likely that there was a settlement here for much longer. The harbour was once important but over the years a shingle reef built up offshore and eventually the harbour was abandoned. The town became industrialised in the late 1700's with Flax spinning dominating. By the early 1900's this ended. Today it's a small town with a selection of shops, cafes and pubs. The coast is pretty and it's worth a stop on a bike ride, it's a good distance from Stonehaven in the north or Montrose in the south so works well as a turnaround point.
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Excellent viaduct, I made the mistake of attempting to follow my garmin and cycled under the viaduct and up the hill before realising a couple of km up the hill that I'd gone the wrong way.
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The lighthouse on Scurdie Ness was opened in 1870 after the local population requested one following several wrecks. It was automated in 1987. The headland makes a great run on its own or as part of a longer loop. The road out along the northern coast is access to the lighthouse only so you're unlikely to see many cars but you might spot seals, dolphins and whales.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around St Cyrus?
St Cyrus is renowned for its natural beauty. You can visit the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve, a significant site with spectacular cliffs, dunes, and diverse habitats supporting over 300 plant species and over 70 bird species. The reserve also includes the three-mile-long St Cyrus Beach, known for its towering red granite cliffs and sand dunes. Further north, you can discover the impressive Den Finella Waterfall, standing at about 75 feet high.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit in St Cyrus?
Yes, St Cyrus offers several intriguing historical sites. Explore the ruins of Ecclesgreig Old Church and Nether Kirkyard, a peaceful burial ground with a watchhouse used to deter bodysnatchers. You can also see the impressive Ferryden Viaduct, a Victorian engineering marvel built in 1878. The remains of Kaim o' Mathers castle, historically used as a refuge, are located on rock pinnacles on the northern part of the beach. Additionally, two historic Old Ice Houses, used for storing salmon, can be seen near St Cyrus Beach.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at St Cyrus National Nature Reserve?
The St Cyrus National Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife. It's home to over 70 different species of birds, including waders, buzzards, kestrels, and peregrine falcons. Offshore, you might spot dolphins, porpoises, minke whales, and grey seals. The reserve's diverse habitats also support a rich variety of insects and flowering plants, making it one of Scotland's most important botanical sites.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in the St Cyrus area?
Many attractions around St Cyrus are suitable for families. The St Cyrus National Nature Reserve offers waymarked trails and a visitor centre with educational facilities. The expansive St Cyrus Beach is perfect for walks and wildlife spotting. The nearby coastal settlement of Inverbervie also provides a pleasant stop with shops and cafes.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or running, can I do near St Cyrus?
The St Cyrus area offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various routes for hiking, running, and mountain biking. For hiking, explore trails like the 'St Cyrus Nature Reserve loop' or 'St Cyrus Beach to Tangleha''. Runners might enjoy the 'Running loop from St Cyrus'. For more options, check out the dedicated guides for Hiking around St Cyrus and Running Trails around St Cyrus.
Where can I find a good viewpoint for scenic photos in St Cyrus?
For scenic photos, particularly of the coastline and a notable landmark, head to Scurdie Ness Lighthouse – TGO Challenge Finish Point. This lighthouse, guarding the entrance to Montrose harbour, offers a historical atmosphere and is a popular spot for photography. The dramatic cliffs and extensive sand dunes along the St Cyrus coastline also provide visually striking backdrops.
What is the best time to visit St Cyrus National Nature Reserve?
The St Cyrus National Nature Reserve is particularly vibrant from spring through autumn. During these seasons, you can witness the diverse array of over 300 plant species in bloom and observe a wide variety of birdlife. Native cattle graze between April and October, contributing to the unique ecosystem. Offshore wildlife sightings like dolphins and seals can occur year-round, but are often more frequent in warmer months.
Are there any easy walking trails suitable for all abilities around St Cyrus?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. Within the St Cyrus National Nature Reserve, you'll find waymarked paths that are generally accessible. Examples of easy routes include the 'St Cyrus Nature Reserve loop' and the 'St Cyrus Nature Reserve & Beach loop from St Cyrus Village'. These trails allow you to experience the natural beauty without significant difficulty. You can find more details in the Hiking around St Cyrus guide.
What is the significance of Ecclesgreig Old Church and Nether Kirkyard?
The Ecclesgreig Old Church and Nether Kirkyard is a historic site with a long history of worship, possibly dating back to the 9th century and the Picts. The ruined church, dedicated in 1242, sits within a peaceful burial ground near the sea, featuring old headstones, table tombs, and a watchhouse from the 18th century used to deter bodysnatchers. It offers a glimpse into the region's ancient past and religious heritage.
Can I observe traditional salmon fishing in St Cyrus?
Traditional salmon fishing with nets can sometimes be observed at St Cyrus Beach, particularly near the mouth of the North Esk River. This practice is a nod to the area's historical connection with the salmon industry, which also led to the construction of the Old Ice Houses for packing fish.
What is the nearby town of Inverbervie like?
Inverbervie is a small coastal town located north of St Cyrus. It offers a selection of shops, cafes, and pubs, making it a suitable stop for refreshments. The town has a pretty coastline and a history dating back to at least the 12th century, though its harbour was eventually abandoned due to shingle build-up.
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