St Baldred's Cave
An ancient sea cave steeped in legend, offering a unique glimpse into history and dramatic coastal landscapes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cave access & best exploration
St Baldred's Cave
Best Time
Cave access & best exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient sea cave steeped in legend, offering a unique glimpse into history and dramatic coastal landscapes.
"A truly magical spot, but always check the tides before you go!"
Check Tide Times First! 🌊
Crucial for accessing the cave. Always check local tide charts before heading out to avoid disappointment or danger.
Wear Sturdy Footwear 👟
The path to and inside the cave can be slippery and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
St. Baldred's Cave
East Lothian Coastline
Explore this ancient sea cave, steeped in legend and natural beauty. Discover its geological formations and historical significance.
Coastal Views
Surrounding cliffs and beaches
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Firth of Forth and the Bass Rock. Perfect for photography and soaking in the coastal atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
What to Wear & Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! 🌊
Crucial for accessing the cave. Always check local tide charts before heading out to avoid disappointment or danger.
Wear Sturdy Footwear 👟
The path to and inside the cave can be slippery and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe visit.
Bring a Flashlight 🔦
Essential for illuminating the cave's interior and appreciating its geological features.
Respect the Environment 🌱
Leave no trace. Take all your rubbish with you and be mindful of the delicate coastal ecosystem.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! 🌊
Crucial for accessing the cave. Always check local tide charts before heading out to avoid disappointment or danger.
Wear Sturdy Footwear 👟
The path to and inside the cave can be slippery and uneven. Good grip is essential for a safe visit.
Bring a Flashlight 🔦
Essential for illuminating the cave's interior and appreciating its geological features.
Respect the Environment 🌱
Leave no trace. Take all your rubbish with you and be mindful of the delicate coastal ecosystem.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St. Baldred's Cave for its natural beauty and historical intrigue, with many appreciating the unique experience of exploring a sea cave. The surrounding coastal scenery is also a significant draw. However, access is entirely dependent on tide times, which can lead to disappointment if not checked carefully.
"An amazing church very welcoming, priest is so down to earth, people are lovely tool, social distancing is in place which I was glad to see. A very holy place!!"
Beth Lightworker
"wonderful church to visit! and great on sunday and friday, see church times,11.30 on friday, 11 on sunday"
Richard Harris
"Good Church!"
Marco Monti
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Baldred's Cave is located near North Berwick, which is about a 40-minute drive from Edinburgh. You can take a train from Edinburgh Waverley to North Berwick, followed by a walk or short taxi ride to the coastline.
Yes, there is parking available in North Berwick, with several car parks within walking distance of the coastal path leading to the cave.
Absolutely! Trains run regularly from Edinburgh to North Berwick. From the station, it's a pleasant walk along the coast to reach the cave area.
The cave is situated along the coastline near North Berwick. It's best accessed by following the coastal path, keeping an eye out for signs or local landmarks.
The walk is generally moderate, following a coastal path. However, the terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially near the cave entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, St. Baldred's Cave is a natural attraction and does not require tickets for entry. Access is free for all visitors.
As a natural sea cave, there are no official opening hours. However, access is strictly dependent on low tide. Always check tide times before visiting.
There is no admission fee to visit St. Baldred's Cave. It's a public access area along the beautiful East Lothian coastline.
The cave is only safely accessible during low tide. Plan your visit around the lowest points of the tide to explore its interior.
The primary restriction is tide times. It's also important to be mindful of the environment and avoid disturbing wildlife.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find fascinating rock formations, evidence of its historical use, and a unique atmosphere. Bring a flashlight to fully appreciate the details.
Children can visit, but they must be supervised closely due to the slippery terrain and proximity to the sea. Ensure they wear appropriate footwear.
The surrounding coastline is rich in birdlife, including puffins and gannets, especially during nesting season. You might also spot seals.
Yes, the cave and the surrounding coastal scenery offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Remember to protect your gear from sea spray.
North Berwick town centre, a short walk away, offers various cafes, restaurants, and public restrooms.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the cave, the wider North Berwick area offers plenty for families. Consider exploring the beaches, looking for seals, or visiting the Scottish Seabird Centre for an educational experience. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities directly at the cave are limited.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers & Hikers
Remember to inform someone of your plans, especially if you're venturing out alone. Always prioritize safety by checking tide times meticulously and wearing appropriate gear. The solitude of the cave can be profound, offering a unique personal experience.
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse birdlife, including puffins and gannets, often seen in the vicinity. The coastal path itself is a haven for flora and fauna. Visiting during different tides and weather conditions will offer vastly different, yet equally stunning, photographic and observational opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of St. Baldred
Exploring the cave offers a tangible connection to this ancient history. While concrete evidence of St. Baldred's direct presence is scarce, the enduring folklore imbues the site with a sense of mystique. Visitors often feel a unique atmosphere within the cave, a quiet reverence that echoes centuries of belief and storytelling.
Many visitors find the historical context enhances their experience. It transforms a simple geological formation into a place of pilgrimage and contemplation, inviting reflection on faith, nature, and the passage of time.
Navigating the Tides for Access
When the tide is out, a sandy or rocky path is revealed, leading to the cave entrance. The terrain can be uneven, wet, and slippery, so sturdy, non-slip footwear is essential. Many visitors recommend wearing waterproof boots to protect your feet from the damp conditions and potential splashes.
It's also wise to be aware of how quickly the tide can turn. Even if you have ample time at low tide, keep an eye on the incoming water. It's better to err on the side of caution and leave the cave with plenty of time to spare before the tide begins to rise significantly.
Photography Opportunities
Consider visiting during the 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the most dramatic lighting. The soft, warm light can enhance the textures of the rocks and the colours of the sea. The Bass Rock, a prominent island visible from the coast, also makes for an iconic photographic subject.
Remember to protect your camera equipment from the elements. Sea spray can be a hazard, so a waterproof camera bag or a rain cover is highly recommended. A tripod can be useful for capturing long exposures of the sea or for low-light conditions within the cave.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit