This short but enjoyable circuit follows the rough coastline north from Collieston atop low cliffs to reach the ruins of Slains Castle, not to be confused with its namesake near Cruden Bay.
Summary
Rough coastal walking, return via track and minor road.
Terrain
Viewpoint car park (St Catherine's Dub), Collieston
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1. There is a car park and viewpoint at St Catherine's Dub just north of Collieston with a superb outlook back towards the village. It is signed but if on foot it can be reached by a short path above the shore. From the car park it looks impossible at first glance to head north along the coast as the route is blocked by a cliff. However near the far end of the car park is the start of a rocky staircase; ascend this which after a couple of steps is obviously a made path; after its rocky start it reaches the top of the cliff via wooden steps.
2. Turn right and follow the narrow grassy path, which can be muddy in places, as it heads north along the coastline. There are views over the rocky shore below, and the ruins of Slains Castle can already be seen ahead, with a modern house on either side. There is a rocky islet just offshore and further on the path crosses a stile and curves left round around the back of a bay, with the stack of Hummel Craig below.
3. The path fades out as Slains is approached; keep near the fence until descending to reach the access track. What remains of the castle - not to be confused with the Slains Castle that replaced it near Cruden Bay, can be seen by a detour to the right along the track, whilst below is the unexpected sandy beach of Broad Haven.
4. Follow the track inland, passing a farm and a cottage before it emerges on a minor road. Turn left along this to return towards Collieston; at Kirkton of Slaines turn left twice to head back to the viewpoint car park at the start.
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