This short but enjoyable circuit follows the rough coastal path north from Collieston atop some fine low coastal cliffs to reach the scant remains of Old Slains Castle, not to be confused with its more impressive (also ruined) replacement near Cruden Bay.
Bog Factor
Rough coastal walking, return via track and minor road.
Viewpoint car park (St Catherine's Dub), Collieston.
No public transport.
NK042286
There is a car park and viewpoint at St Catherine's Dub just north of Collieston. The viewpoint is well worth a visit for its superb outlook towards the village.
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 by a footpath sign is the start of a rocky staircase; ascend this; after a couple of steps it becomes a more obviously made path, eventually reaching the top of the cliff via a flight of steps. There is now a fine view of the coastline beckoning ahead.
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. Further on the path goes through a pedestrian gate and then curves left to pass high around the back of a bay, with the stack of Hummel Craig below.
The path fades Slains is approached, but whether you keep near the fence or head through a grassy dip you will meet the access track for the castle and houses. What remains of the castle - not to be confused with the New 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.
The rough coastal path continues northwards (leading eventually to Cruden Bay), but our route turns back here; follow the track inland, passing a farm and a cottage before emerging on a minor road. Turn left along this to return towards Collieston; at Kirkton of Slaines turn left, passing the church. Beyond this the road back to the car park forks off left, but before returning it is worth continuing along the road to visit Collieston harbour.
Take the next road forking left to head down to the harbour, where there is a small sandy beach (and public toilets along the coast to the right). To return to the start, head up the lane signed as 'The Cliff' and then turn left up a flight of steps before the house. At the top of the steps turn right and follow a lane and then a footpath back to the car park at the start.
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