RSPB Fowlsheugh Crawton
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RSPB Fowlsheugh Crawton

4.8
·602 reviews·Crawton, United Kingdom

Dramatic cliffs teeming with seabirds, including puffins, and a unique waterfall cascading into the sea.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Best for puffins & parking

CrowdMedium
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RSPB Fowlsheugh Crawton

RSPB Fowlsheugh Crawton

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Best for puffins & parking

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dramatic cliffs teeming with seabirds, including puffins, and a unique waterfall cascading into the sea.

4.8
(602 reviews)

"A bird watcher's paradise with stunning coastal views and the chance to see puffins!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Limited Parking Alert

Only 12 spaces available. Arrive early or be patient, cars leave regularly. :car:

🦤 Puffin Spotting Tips

Visit April-July for puffins. They can be elusive, so patience is key! :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Puffin Paradise

Puffin Paradise

Clifftops

Spot adorable puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes during breeding season. A true delight for birdwatchers!

Crawton Waterfall

Crawton Waterfall

Coastal cliff face

Witness a unique waterfall cascading directly into the North Sea. Best after rainfall for a more dramatic display.

Dramatic Coastal Cliffs

Dramatic Coastal Cliffs

Along the coastline

Experience breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the vast North Sea from high vantage points.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Puffins

Visit during spring and summer (April to July) for the best chance to see puffins and other breeding seabirds. Outside this window, the cliffs are much quieter. Arrive early or late to snag one of the limited parking spots.

Cliff Safety First

The dramatic cliffs offer stunning views but can be hazardous. Always maintain a safe distance, especially with children. Stick to marked paths and be aware of your surroundings.

Best Times

When
Spring & Summer mornings
Why
Best for puffins & parking
Crowd
Medium
When
Late afternoons
Why
Less crowded, good light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🌊FOWLSHEUGH NATURE RESERVE 🪺 📍RSPB Fowlsheugh, Crawton, Stonehaven Seeing a puffin in the flesh is one of the most incredible nature experiences I’ve had. Not just because they are absolutely tiny and hard to spot despite having bright orange beaks and feet, but because every time I’ve been to see them it’s just as I give up that they begin to emerge. The cliffs along the reserve are packed ...
juliabryce92
0 likes • 14.4K views

🎯 Limited Parking Alert

Only 12 spaces available. Arrive early or be patient, cars leave regularly. :car:

🦤 Puffin Spotting Tips

Visit April-July for puffins. They can be elusive, so patience is key! :camerawithflash:

Crawton, also known as RSPB Fowlsheugh is only a few miles south of Dunnottar Castle, and is great stretch of the coast for birdwatching or just a scenic walk. If you are lucky you’ll spot a Puffin or two along the way! #rspb #fowlsheugh #visitabdn #visitscotland #scotlandiscalling #écosse #your_coasts #your_best_birds #seagul #scotlandexplore #scotlandtravel
bgs_photography_scotland
725 likes • 8.8K views
After a few weeks of no rain in Scotland, waterfalls are looking a little less impressive than normal, but I still love this one. Crawton Waterfall at RSPB Fowlsheugh just a short distance south of Dunnottar Castle and well worth a visit. If you walk along the clifftop to the end of the RSPB area, then you can just glimpse the iconic castle from there. The cliffs are covered in seabirds and gorse...
scotlands_stories
3.2K likes • 27.2K views

⚠️ Cliff Safety

Stay on paths and keep a safe distance from the edge, especially with kids. :child:

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Walk

Enjoy stunning views and birdlife on easy-to-moderate clifftop walks. :athletic_shoe:

Come with us to… Fowlsheugh RSPB Reserve and Crawton Waterfall. Located just south of Stonehaven, off the A92 (coastal road). Parking is limited, space for 12 cars. We seemed to time it well, and there are probably busier and quieter times of the day. We went late afternoon and parked fine. There were cars on the verge ( but this isn’t encouraged). Follow the tarmac road until you see the pu...
thrivingmumhub
15 likes • 859 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Limited Parking Alert

Only 12 spaces available. Arrive early or be patient, cars leave regularly. :car:

🦤 Puffin Spotting Tips

Visit April-July for puffins. They can be elusive, so patience is key! :camerawithflash:

⚠️ Cliff Safety

Stay on paths and keep a safe distance from the edge, especially with kids. :child:

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Walk

Enjoy stunning views and birdlife on easy-to-moderate clifftop walks. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera for incredible coastal scenery and abundant wildlife shots. :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(602 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning coastal scenery and the incredible abundance of seabirds at RSPB Fowlsheugh, calling it a birdwatcher's paradise. The chance to see puffins and the unique waterfall are major highlights. However, the very limited parking and the inherent dangers of the high cliffs are frequently mentioned drawbacks.

"It is a beautiful location with numerous cliffs and abundant wildlife. We were fortunate enough to observe hares, birds, and other creatures. However, the cliffs can be hazardous, so please exercise caution and maintain a safe distance."

Nikitha Mariam Koshy

"Fantastic views all around and thousands of sea birds. Nice easy walks, just be careful especially if you have kids with you as the cliffs are very high. We went looking for puffins and managed to spot the one only in a mass of other birds😂. A bird watches paradise for sure!
The parking is very limited with only about 12 spaces but cars arrive and leave pretty regularly so be patient and you will get a space."

Del Homar

"Great place to visit. Beautiful cliffs, perfect for birds watchers. Also very often puffins can be seen. We missed them though."

Sandi Keber

What People Like

Spectacular cliff views
Abundant seabird colonies
Puffin sightings

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Cliff edge hazards

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

RSPB Fowlsheugh is located about 3 miles south of Stonehaven, just off the A92 coastal road. Take the Crawton turning. If traveling by public transport, research bus routes that go near Stonehaven and then consider a taxi or a longer walk to the reserve. Instagram

Yes, there is limited parking available, with space for approximately 12 cars. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, or be prepared to wait for a space as cars depart regularly. Some visitors have parked on the verge, but this is not encouraged. InstagramReddit

Yes, entry to RSPB Fowlsheugh is free, and the reserve is open at all times, making it accessible for spontaneous visits. Reddit

While there isn't direct public transport to the reserve itself, you can take a bus to Stonehaven and then it's a walk or short taxi ride to Fowlsheugh. Planning your route in advance is recommended. Reddit

From Aberdeen, head south on the A90 and then join the A92 coastal road towards Stonehaven. Look for the sign for Crawton, which will lead you to the RSPB Fowlsheugh reserve. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, RSPB Fowlsheugh is a free nature reserve, so no tickets are required for entry. You can visit anytime. Reddit

The reserve is open at all times, offering flexibility for visitors to explore the stunning coastal scenery and wildlife whenever they choose. Reddit

There is no admission fee to visit RSPB Fowlsheugh. It's a fantastic free attraction for nature lovers. Reddit

Yes, you can visit RSPB Fowlsheugh year-round. However, the cliffs will be much quieter outside of the spring and summer months when the seabirds are breeding. Instagram

No booking is required for RSPB Fowlsheugh as it is a free-to-enter nature reserve. Reddit

🎫 🦤 Wildlife & Nature

The best time to see puffins and other breeding seabirds like guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes is during the spring and summer months, typically from April to July. Instagram+1

You can see a vast array of seabirds, including guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, fulmars, and if you're lucky, puffins. Over 130,000 breeding seabirds can be present during peak season. Instagram

Visitors have reported seeing hares and even pods of dolphins swimming offshore. Keep an eye out for marine life and other local fauna. Reddit

Absolutely! RSPB Fowlsheugh is renowned as a birdwatcher's paradise due to the sheer number and variety of seabirds nesting on the cliffs. Reddit

Puffins can be elusive and are often seen among the masses of other birds. While sightings are common during the breeding season, patience and a keen eye are recommended. InstagramReddit

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

The terrain involves clifftop walks which are generally easy to moderate. Be mindful of uneven ground and the proximity to the cliff edge. Reddit

Information on specific facilities like restrooms or visitor centers is limited. It's advisable to check the RSPB website or be prepared with your own provisions. The focus is on the natural landscape. Instagram

While the views are spectacular, the high cliffs require extreme caution with children. Stick to marked paths and supervise them closely at all times. Reddit

The best way to explore is by walking along the clifftop paths, which offer stunning views and opportunities to observe the seabird colonies. Instagram

RSPB Fowlsheugh is located a short distance south of Dunnottar Castle. While you can see the castle from the clifftop at Fowlsheugh, it's a separate location and not directly connected by a continuous walking path. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The dramatic coastal cliffs, the unique Crawton Waterfall, and the abundant seabird colonies, especially puffins, offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The sea views are also spectacular. Instagram+1

A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing detailed shots of the seabirds. A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive coastal landscapes. Instagram

Photographing puffins can be challenging due to their small size and tendency to be among other birds. Patience and a good zoom lens are your best friends. Instagram

Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Instagram

Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. Always be respectful of the wildlife and other visitors, and avoid disturbing the birds. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

RSPB Fowlsheugh offers a fantastic opportunity for families to connect with nature, but safety is paramount. The dramatic cliffs mean constant supervision is essential for children. Stick strictly to marked paths and keep a safe distance from the edge at all times. Reddit

During the spring and summer, the abundance of seabirds, including the chance to spot puffins, can be incredibly engaging for kids. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are minimal. The limited parking can also be a challenge, so consider visiting during off-peak hours or being prepared for a short wait. InstagramReddit

🐦 Birdwatchers & Wildlife Enthusiasts

For dedicated birdwatchers, RSPB Fowlsheugh is a dream destination. The sheer volume of breeding seabirds during the season is astounding, offering unparalleled opportunities for observation and photography. Bring your binoculars and telephoto lenses to get the best views of guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes, and the sought-after puffins. Instagram

Beyond the avian life, the chance to spot dolphins offshore adds an extra layer of excitement. The reserve is a testament to the success of conservation efforts, providing a vital habitat for these species. Plan your visit during peak breeding months for the most vibrant experience. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Coastal Walkers

The clifftop paths at RSPB Fowlsheugh offer scenic coastal walks with breathtaking views of the North Sea. The terrain is generally easy to moderate, making it accessible for most walkers. The dramatic landscapes and the constant presence of seabirds create an immersive natural experience. Instagram

Combine your walk with a visit to the unique Crawton Waterfall for added visual interest. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for coastal weather, which can change rapidly. The limited parking means you might need to be flexible with your start time. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Seabird Spectacle

RSPB Fowlsheugh is a vital breeding ground for an astonishing number of seabirds. During the spring and summer months, the cliffs teem with life, hosting over 130,000 birds. Visitors can expect to see large colonies of guillemots and razorbills, easily identifiable by their distinctive markings. Kittiwakes also form a significant part of the spectacle, their calls echoing along the coast. The presence of fulmars, with their gliding flight, adds to the dynamic avian display. Instagram

The star attraction for many is the puffin, with its colorful beak and comical waddle. While sightings are not guaranteed, the period between April and July offers the highest probability of spotting these charismatic birds. Redditors and social media creators often share their excitement upon spotting them, emphasizing the thrill of seeing them in their natural habitat. InstagramReddit

Beyond the birds, keep an eye on the sea. Lucky visitors have reported spotting dolphins playing in the waves, adding another layer of wildlife wonder to the Fowlsheugh experience. The sheer density and variety of wildlife make this a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Reddit

Crawton Waterfall: A Coastal Gem

One of the unique features of RSPB Fowlsheugh is the Crawton Waterfall. This picturesque cascade tumbles directly over the cliff edge into the North Sea below. While it's a beautiful sight year-round, its grandeur is amplified after periods of significant rainfall, creating a more powerful and dramatic flow. Instagram+1

Finding the waterfall is straightforward. Visitors typically park at the RSPB Fowlsheugh reserve and then follow a path that leads to a vantage point overlooking the falls. The contrast of the freshwater cascade against the salty expanse of the sea is a striking visual. Instagram

Photographers and nature lovers alike are drawn to the Crawton Waterfall for its unique setting. It offers a different perspective on the rugged coastline and is a memorable addition to the Fowlsheugh experience, often captured in stunning Instagram reels and TikTok videos. Instagram+1

Navigating the Cliffs Safely

The dramatic cliffs of RSPB Fowlsheugh provide breathtaking panoramic views of the North Sea and the coastline. However, these stunning vistas come with inherent risks. Visitors are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution and always maintain a safe distance from the cliff edge. Reddit

Sticking to designated paths is crucial for safety. The terrain can be uneven, and the sheer drops are significant. Parents with young children must be particularly vigilant, ensuring constant supervision to prevent accidents. Reddit Social media content often highlights the beauty but also implicitly underscores the need for awareness of these natural hazards. Instagram

While the allure of getting closer for a better view or photograph is understandable, prioritizing safety ensures that your visit to RSPB Fowlsheugh remains a positive and memorable experience. The RSPB emphasizes responsible enjoyment of nature, which includes respecting the environment and its potential dangers. Reddit

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