20 September 2025 (10:00 - 16:00)
21 September 2025 (10:00 - 16:00)
The windswept, storm-battered dunes of St Cyrus National Nature Reserve (NNR) might seem a little inhospitable. Winter storms and salty winds wreak havoc along the coastline, but natural barriers of inland cliffs and a seaward ridge of sand dunes protect the St Cyrus grasslands from the ravages of the weather. The result is a small strip of warmth nestled on the north-east coast.
This is one of the richest and most diverse reserves in Britain. In summer it is awash with wildflowers and a haven for insects. There are many species of breeding birds, including meadow pipit, stonechat and skylark. In winter, large numbers of waders, ducks, geese and swans visit the estuary.
Whether your interest is birds, botany or butterflies and moths, you’ll find plenty of interest at any time of year. Or just come for a walk and enjoy the sea views. One of the best ways to see the reserve is to explore the paths or walk along the extensive sandy beach.
The weekend will be awash with information about the reserve and it’s wonderful wildlife and this year the reserve will be combining a celebration of its geology too! From 11.00am-3:30pm on both days members of the Scottish Geology Trust will be in attendance and will explore everything rocky, pebbly and geological at St Cyrus NNR and beyond! Bringing you a display of local rocks, pebbles and agates to explore, why don’t you bring your own rocks and fossils along for a show and tell!
There will be fluorescent mineral display showing how ultraviolet light can transform the drabbest rocks into beautiful and colourful specimens as well as plenty of children’s activities too. Make a pebble friend, a fossil or a badge!
Look out on St Cyrus socials for more information relating to walks and talks.
So, whether you are young or old there will be something to take part in over the weekend!
From Montrose, head north on the A92 coastal road. St Cyrus NNR is signposted on the right, immediately after the Northwater Bridge over the Esk. Follow the single-track road for 1.5 miles to the car park and visitor centre.

Address
The Old Lifeboat Station, Nether Warburton, St Cyrus, DD10 0AQ