Deil's Heid
Iconic sea stack on dramatic cliffs, offering stunning coastal views and a touch of local folklore.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For best views & safety
Deil's Heid
Best Time
For best views & safety
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic sea stack on dramatic cliffs, offering stunning coastal views and a touch of local folklore.
"A wonderful walk along the cliff top path with deeply eroded cliffs and caves."
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Paths can be uneven and slippery, especially near the cliffs. Sturdy footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable walk.
Check the weather :cloud:
Coastal weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for wind and potential rain, even on a sunny day.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Deil's Heid Sea Stack
Arbroath Cliffs
An iconic, dramatic sea stack with a devilish name, offering stunning coastal views.
Arbroath Cliff Trail
North of Arbroath
A scenic coastal walk with breathtaking views, wildflowers, and fascinating rock formations.
Seaman's Grave & Mermaid's Kirk
Arbroath Cliffs
Intriguing rock formations adding to the geological wonder of the coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Deil's Heid
Accessibility and Paths
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Paths can be uneven and slippery, especially near the cliffs. Sturdy footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable walk.
Check the weather :cloud:
Coastal weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for wind and potential rain, even on a sunny day.
Easy walk from parking :car:
A car park is available, making the walk to Deil's Heid a pleasant 20-minute stroll on a paved path.
Explore beyond the main path :hiking_boot:
For the adventurous, there are paths to scramble down for closer views of the rock formations.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Paths can be uneven and slippery, especially near the cliffs. Sturdy footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable walk.
Check the weather :cloud:
Coastal weather changes rapidly. Be prepared for wind and potential rain, even on a sunny day.
Easy walk from parking :car:
A car park is available, making the walk to Deil's Heid a pleasant 20-minute stroll on a paved path.
Explore beyond the main path :hiking_boot:
For the adventurous, there are paths to scramble down for closer views of the rock formations.
Bring your camera! :camera:
The dramatic sea stacks and coastal scenery are perfect for photography, especially at sunrise.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the stunning natural beauty and dramatic scenery of Deil's Heid and the Arbroath Cliffs. The accessibility of the main path from the car park is a plus, though some enjoy the challenge of scrambling for closer views. The ever-present wind is a common observation, adding to the wild coastal atmosphere.
"Lovely walk! My partner and I walked from Arbroath bus station to here but you can park much closer, about 20 minutes away, if you want to make it easier. The walk this far is quite accessible, no steps, all paved - if a bit narrow in parts. However, if it's a nice day and you're feeling adventurous, there are lots of paths to scramble down and see some of the cliff features more up close."
Jasper Chippendale
"Great hike along the cliffs at Arbroath. The views are breathtaking!! It can be quite windy and narrow at times, and also the weather could change quickly, be prepared."
Elaine Kachor
"Its a wonderful walk along the cliff top path from Arbroath Victoria Park. The wild flowers and deeply eroded cliffs caves and blowholes make it memorable. The Bell Rock lighthouse 13 miles off shore is clearly visible subject to weather. You might also see whales or dolphins.
The path goes all the way to the fascinating village of Auchmithie, said to be the true home of the 'Smokie'. The Deils Heid is about 1/4 the way there."
Chris Wilson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Deil's Heid is located on the Arbroath Cliffs. You can park at a nearby car park, which is about a 20-minute walk from the sea stack. Alternatively, you can walk from Arbroath bus station or Victoria Park, though this is a longer trek.
Yes, there is a car park available that provides convenient access to the Deil's Heid and the Arbroath Cliff Trail.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy walking from Arbroath, with some opting for a longer scenic route from the bus station or Victoria Park.
The main path from the car park is paved and well-maintained, making it relatively easy. However, venturing off-path involves scrambling and uneven ground.
Yes, you can reach Arbroath by public transport and then enjoy a walk to Deil's Heid. The walk from the bus station is a popular option for those without a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Deil's Heid and the Arbroath Cliff Trail are natural attractions and do not require tickets for entry. Access is free for all visitors.
Deil's Heid is accessible at all times, as it is an outdoor natural landmark. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and the best experience.
There is no admission fee to explore the Arbroath Cliffs, including the area around Deil's Heid. Enjoy the natural beauty at your leisure.
Yes, Deil's Heid is accessible year-round. However, weather conditions can vary significantly, so check forecasts before your visit.
While there are no specific entry restrictions, visitors are advised to be mindful of the coastal environment, stay on marked paths where possible, and be aware of cliff edges.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the dramatic Deil's Heid sea stack. You'll also find other fascinating rock formations like the Seaman's Grave and Mermaid's Kirk, along with stunning sea views.
The paved path is generally suitable for children, but caution is advised near cliff edges. Younger children should be supervised closely.
You might spot seabirds nesting on the cliffs. On occasion, whales or dolphins have been seen offshore, and the area is known for its wildflowers.
Yes, it's possible to walk to the base of the sea stack, especially at low tide. This involves some scrambling over rocks and uneven terrain.
The Arbroath Cliff Trail extends to the village of Auchmithie, famous for its 'Smokies'. You can also see the Bell Rock Lighthouse offshore on clear days.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunrise offers beautiful golden hour light for dramatic photography of the sea stack and cliffs. Daylight hours provide clear views of the formations and coastline.
Several drone videos showcase Deil's Heid.
Wide-angle shots capturing the scale of the cliffs and sea stack are popular. Close-ups of the rock formations and the texture of the cliffs also make for compelling images.
Yes, the main path offers excellent vantage points for photographing Deil's Heid. For more dramatic angles, consider carefully descending to the base if conditions permit.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant wildlife or details on the cliffs. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a chance for kids to see impressive natural rock formations and learn about coastal erosion in a fun way. Remember to keep a close eye on children near the cliff edges, as safety is paramount.🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
📸 Photographers
+2 Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the coastline and a polarizing filter to manage reflections on the water.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Deil's Heid
The Arbroath Cliffs, where Deil's Heid stands, are composed of sandstone, which is susceptible to this type of erosion. The relentless action of the North Sea, with its tides and storms, has sculpted these dramatic formations, including other notable features like the Seaman's Grave and Mermaid's Kirk.
The ongoing process means that sea stacks like Deil's Heid are constantly changing, and eventually, they too will succumb to the sea's power, though this is a very slow geological process.These formations not only create a visually stunning landscape but also provide important habitats for various seabirds. The interplay of rock, sea, and sky makes the Arbroath coastline a fascinating place for both geologists and casual observers alike.
Folklore and Local Legends
One intriguing piece of folklore recounts how local children would gather around the standing stone (presumably referring to Deil's Heid or a similar nearby feature) in the early 1900s. They would hold hands and sing a rhyme: 'Olie Olie peep peep peep / Here comes the man with the colven feet / Here's his head but where's his feet? / Olie Olie peep peep peep.' This rhyme, with its mention of 'colven feet' (cloven feet), directly links the site to the devil or a similar folkloric figure.
These stories add a layer of mystique to the already dramatic landscape, inviting visitors to imagine the ancient rituals and beliefs that once permeated this coastal region. It's a reminder that even natural formations can become imbued with human history and imagination.
Exploring the Arbroath Cliff Trail
As you walk along the cliffs, you'll encounter a variety of geological wonders, including caves, blowholes, and other intriguing rock formations.
While the main path is straightforward, there are opportunities for more adventurous exploration. Scrambling down to the base of the cliffs or exploring smaller paths can offer unique perspectives, but always prioritize safety and wear appropriate footwear.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit