Hidden jewel
1 / 10

Usan Cliffs and Coves

4.8
·995 reviews·, United Kingdom

Dramatic red cliffs, hidden coves, and stunning coastal walks offering breathtaking views of the North Sea.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Low tide

Explore caves & coves

CrowdLow
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Hidden jewel

Usan Cliffs and Coves

Best Time

Low tide

Explore caves & coves

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dramatic red cliffs, hidden coves, and stunning coastal walks offering breathtaking views of the North Sea.

4.8
(995 reviews)

"The view is so dramatic it made me wonder if nature hired a Hollywood director."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Gravel paths can be uneven. Wear good walking shoes or boots for comfort and safety on the cliffs. :athletic_shoe:

🧥 Pack for All Weather

Be prepared for wind, rain, and sun. Layers are key for a comfortable cliff-top experience. :cloudrain: :sunwith_face:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dramatic Red Rock Arches

Dramatic Red Rock Arches

Along the cliff edge

Marvel at the natural red rock formations, including stunning arches carved by the sea over centuries.

Hidden Coves and Caves

Hidden Coves and Caves

At the base of the cliffs

Discover secluded coves with clear blue waters and rocky beaches, perfect for exploration at low tide.

Spectacular Cliff Walks

Spectacular Cliff Walks

Coastal paths

Enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline and the North Sea on well-maintained gravel paths.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Elements

Usan Cliffs and Coves offer dramatic coastal scenery, but the weather can change rapidly. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy footwear for your cliff walks. Be prepared for wind and potential rain, even on sunny days.

Tide Times are Key

Explore the coves and sea caves at low tide for the best experience. Check tide times before you go to safely discover hidden nooks and appreciate the natural red rock arches and carved caves.

Best Times

When
Low tide
Why
Explore caves & coves
Crowd
Low
When
Sunny, calm days
Why
Best views & photo ops
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn mornings
Why
Dramatic light & fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Rugged cliffs, hidden coves, centuries of history, and beautiful turquoise beaches 🌊🐚 AD I’ve just spent a magical 3 days exploring the Jersey Tidal Trail, a 48-mile route that wraps around the island of Jersey 🇯🇪 & it’s less than a 60-minute flight from the UK!! Itinerary highlights… Save for later 📌 * Rozel Bay → Gorey Village * Lunch at Maddie’s @themooringsjersey * Explored Gorey Village & ...
geordie_hiker
0 likes • 24.5K views

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Gravel paths can be uneven. Wear good walking shoes or boots for comfort and safety on the cliffs. :athletic_shoe:

🧥 Pack for All Weather

Be prepared for wind, rain, and sun. Layers are key for a comfortable cliff-top experience. :cloudrain: :sunwith_face:

👉Looking for a place to cool off on a hot summer day ? This is the spot.💦 🧗Golden cliffs, hidden coves, and brand-new wooden stairs lead you down to a peaceful stretch of sand—perfect for sunbathing, swimming, kayaking along the coast, or exploring tide pools at low tide. Above, breezy bluff trails offer wildflower views and dolphin sightings, making it feel like a secret escape tucked into Calif...
scenic_adventure_travel
6.1K likes • 448.7K views
@ladthatsups takes us to the dramatic white cliffs and hidden coves of Selwicks Bay, a wild and beautiful corner of the East Yorkshire coast 🏞️🌊 Tucked below the towering chalk cliffs of Flamborough Head, this spot is perfect for adventurers looking to escape the crowds. At low tide, the beach reveals sea caves and arches just waiting to be explored, and if you’re into paddle boarding, weaving t...
hiddengem.app
0 likes • 51.8K views

⏰ Check Tide Times

Low tide is best for exploring caves and coves. Plan your visit accordingly for maximum discovery. :clock1:

📸 Phone Wallpaper Views

The dramatic scenery is perfect for photos. Expect stunning backdrops for your social media. :camerawithflash:

🌿 Raw, untouched, and absolutely unforgettable - Hvar’s wild northern coast is where the Adriatic crashes into pure nature. 🐐 Rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and not a soul in sight. 🌊 This isn’t the Hvar you’ve seen on postcards - it’s the one you feel. Would you explore this wild side of Croatia? #hvarisland #wildcroatia #adriaticcoast #explorecroatia #naturelovers #secretspots
croatia
1.1K likes • 25.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Gravel paths can be uneven. Wear good walking shoes or boots for comfort and safety on the cliffs. :athletic_shoe:

🧥 Pack for All Weather

Be prepared for wind, rain, and sun. Layers are key for a comfortable cliff-top experience. :cloudrain: :sunwith_face:

⏰ Check Tide Times

Low tide is best for exploring caves and coves. Plan your visit accordingly for maximum discovery. :clock1:

📸 Phone Wallpaper Views

The dramatic scenery is perfect for photos. Expect stunning backdrops for your social media. :camerawithflash:

🐬 Dolphin Spotting

Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life from the cliff tops. :dolphin:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(995 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the magnificent cliff walks and dramatic red rock formations at Usan Cliffs and Coves, often describing the views as spectacular and worth the visit. The free parking and on-site amenities like toilets and a food trailer are appreciated. Some note the unpredictable weather and the need for sturdy footwear.

"Beautiful cliff walking place in Arbroath, parking is spacious and free parking, nice and clean toilet and other side is a lovely food trailer, guess it mother and daughter running, nice and reasonable price for items like burger, ice cream, loved there home made soup of the day: it was Cullen skink.
Nice path for walking, little to surprise most of the path was gravelled which is nice if it is raining as well.
Cliffs is magnificent, with natural red rock arch, carved caves, water is blue clear, rocky beach with polished stones simply amazing."

Kamms Sin

"Stunning cliff walk with loads of necks and crannies to explore, keep an eye out for kayakers cliff jumpers and dolphins.

Highly recommend and if you're feeling up to it you can walk all the way to Auchmithie and back."

Danny Flydays

"Stunning views, lovely walk along cliff edge. Suitable for all easy to access. Lots of Free parking."

K Thomson

What People Like

Magnificent cliff walks
Dramatic red rock arches
Spectacular coastal views

What People Dislike

Unpredictable weather
Uneven gravel paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Usan Cliffs and Coves are located near Arbroath. The area offers spacious and free parking, making it easily accessible by car. Follow local signage from Arbroath to reach the designated parking areas. Reddit

While direct public transport to the immediate cliff area might be limited, Arbroath is well-connected by bus and train. From Arbroath town center, you can consider a taxi or a longer walk to reach the cliffs. Reddit

The most popular way to explore is by walking the coastal paths. These paths are mostly gravel, making them suitable for walking even in damp conditions. Reddit

Yes, the cliffs are near Arbroath, a historic town with amenities. You can also walk to the charming village of Auchmithie from the cliffs. Reddit

The cliffs are well-signposted from Arbroath, and the free parking area is a good starting point. The dramatic landscape is hard to miss once you're in the vicinity. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to visit Usan Cliffs and Coves. The area is freely accessible to the public. Reddit

Usan Cliffs and Coves are open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best views. Reddit

Yes, there is ample and free parking available at the Usan Cliffs site, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

The site offers nice and clean toilet facilities. There's also a food trailer often present, offering items like burgers and ice cream at reasonable prices. Reddit

There are no official tours to book for Usan Cliffs. It's a natural attraction best explored independently. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy spectacular cliff walks, explore natural red rock arches and carved caves, discover hidden coves, and admire the clear blue waters. It's also a great spot for photography and wildlife spotting. Reddit

The paths are mostly gravel and can be uneven. While children can enjoy the views, close supervision is essential due to the cliff edges. The beach areas are rocky. Reddit

Visitors often report seeing dolphins from the cliffs. You might also spot various seabirds. Reddit

Wear sturdy walking shoes or boots, and dress in layers. Waterproofs are highly recommended as the weather can change quickly. Reddit

While there are coves with clear water, swimming is at your own risk due to the rocky terrain and potentially strong currents. It's more suited for exploration than swimming. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is often a food trailer on-site offering items like burgers, ice cream, and homemade soup, with reasonable prices. Reddit

The food trailer typically serves popular items like burgers and ice cream. They are also known for their delicious homemade soup of the day, such as Cullen Skink. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great option. There are scenic spots along the cliff paths where you can enjoy your meal with a view. Reddit

Arbroath offers a range of dining options, from traditional pubs to seafood restaurants. It's a good place to visit for a more extensive meal after your cliff exploration. Reddit

The food trailer usually sells drinks like soft drinks and water. It's advisable to bring your own water bottle, especially if you plan a longer walk. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire coastline offers stunning photographic opportunities. Focus on the dramatic red rock arches, carved caves, and the contrast of the blue water against the cliffs. Reddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful lighting. Overcast days can also create dramatic, moody shots of the cliffs. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the sea and sky. TikTok

Look for the natural arches, the textures of the red rock, the patterns of the waves crashing against the shore, and any wildlife like seabirds or dolphins. Reddit

Include a person or a recognizable object in your frame to give a sense of scale to the dramatic cliffs and rock formations. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Usan Cliffs and Coves offer a fantastic natural playground for families. The spacious free parking and clean toilet facilities make it convenient for a day out. Reddit While the cliff paths are mostly gravel and can be uneven, children will be fascinated by the dramatic red rock formations, carved caves, and the chance to explore rocky beaches at low tide. Reddit Encourage them to look for seabirds and perhaps even dolphins. Reddit Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery, or grab a treat from the on-site food trailer. Reddit Ensure close supervision due to the cliff edges.

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Hikers

For avid walkers, Usan Cliffs presents a rewarding experience. The well-maintained gravel paths along the cliff edge are ideal for a brisk walk or a more leisurely stroll. Reddit The route to Auchmithie and back is a popular choice for those looking to extend their hike and soak in more of the coastal beauty. Reddit Be prepared for changing weather conditions by packing layers and waterproofs. The dramatic views and fresh sea air make this a highly recommended walk for anyone visiting the area. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Usan Cliffs is a dream destination for photographers. The dramatic red rock arches, carved caves, and the contrasting blue waters offer endless opportunities for stunning shots. Reddit Visit during the golden hours for breathtaking light, or embrace moody weather for dramatic compositions. Reddit Don't forget to capture the scale of the cliffs by including elements like people or the coastline itself. The natural beauty here is so striking, it's been noted that it's perfect for upgrading your phone's wallpaper game. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Coastal Paths

The Usan Cliffs and Coves are renowned for their stunning coastal walks. The paths are primarily made of gravel, which is beneficial for drainage, making them accessible even after rain. Reddit These trails offer breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, the North Sea, and the unique geological formations. Many visitors recommend walking the full stretch to Auchmithie and back for a more immersive experience. Reddit Remember to wear sturdy footwear and dress in layers, as the coastal weather can be unpredictable and windy. Reddit

These walks are not just about the scenery; they are also opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins playing in the water below or various seabirds soaring overhead. Reddit The dramatic landscape has even been described as having a 'Hollywood director's' touch, promising views that are truly unforgettable and perfect for upgrading your phone's wallpaper collection. Reddit

For those seeking a more adventurous exploration, the coves and sea caves are best accessed at low tide. This allows you to get up close to the natural red rock arches and carved formations, revealing the raw beauty of the coastline. Reddit The rocky beaches are scattered with polished stones, adding to the natural charm of the area. Instagram

Geological Wonders: Arches and Coves

The Usan Cliffs are a testament to the power of nature, featuring magnificent natural red rock arches and intricately carved caves. These geological marvels are a primary draw for visitors, showcasing the erosive forces of the sea over millennia. Reddit The vibrant red hue of the rock contrasts beautifully with the clear blue waters, creating a visually striking landscape. Reddit

At low tide, these hidden coves and sea caves become accessible, inviting exploration. Visitors can wander through these natural formations, discovering the textures and patterns etched into the rock. Reddit The rocky beaches within these coves are often covered in polished stones, perfect for a bit of beachcombing. Reddit The dramatic cliffs and their formations have been a source of inspiration, with their wild beauty often compared to more remote, untouched coastlines. Instagram+1

Local Amenities and Food

While Usan Cliffs and Coves is a natural attraction, it is complemented by convenient amenities. Visitors will find spacious and free parking, making access straightforward. Reddit Additionally, there are nice and clean toilet facilities available on-site, ensuring comfort during your visit. Reddit

A popular feature is the food trailer often present at the site, run by a mother-daughter duo. They offer a selection of reasonably priced items, including burgers, ice cream, and a highly recommended homemade soup of the day, such as Cullen Skink. Reddit This provides a convenient option for a quick bite or a warm meal while enjoying the coastal views. For a wider range of dining experiences, the nearby town of Arbroath offers various restaurants and cafes. Reddit

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