Premium Walk

Forvie National Nature Reserve

Updated: May 26, 2025
Featured image for Forvie National Nature Reserve

Walk Highlights

Nearest Town:
Collieston
Distance:
4.50 miles
Time:
2.80 hours
Difficulty:
Moderate
Terrain:

Terrain: Predominantly walking on soft sand along the beach and through the extensive sand dune system, which can be very strenuous and uneven. Some paths may be more compacted or have boardwalks in very sensitive areas, but expect mostly natural, sandy surfaces. The area is very exposed to coastal weather.

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Dog-Centric Details

Poo Bins Available:
No
Secure/Fenced Area:
No
Dog Water Source:
Yes
Dog Notes:

Dog Considerations:

  • Leads: Due to the extreme sensitivity of the internationally important wildlife at Forvie NNR (including vast numbers of ground-nesting birds in spring/summer, and one of the UK's largest grey seal haul-outs), dogs **MUST BE KEPT ON A SHORT LEAD AT ALL TIMES** throughout the entire reserve, including beaches and dunes. This is critical to prevent disturbance. Rangers patrol and enforce this.
  • Water: The sea. Carry plenty of fresh water for your dog, as the sandy terrain and exposure can be dehydrating.
  • Wildlife: Seals, eider ducks, terns, oystercatchers, and many other bird species. It is imperative that dogs do not approach or disturb any wildlife. The seal colony is particularly vulnerable to disturbance.
  • Dog Bins: May be available at the Beach Road car park. Unlikely within the reserve itself. You MUST be prepared to take all dog waste home.
  • Hazards: Soft sand (can be tiring for dogs), strong coastal winds, tides (be aware if near estuary mouth), extreme disturbance caused by off-lead dogs to wildlife. Adders may be present in dune heath.
EV Charger Nearby:
No
Fuel Station Nearby:
No
Livestock Information:
Off-Leash Policy:
On-Leash Only
Seasonal Advice:
Height Restriction:
No
Printable Version:
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About this Walk

Starting Point: Beach Road car park, Newburgh, Aberdeenshire (Postcode: AB41 8RU). This provides direct access to the southern end of Forvie National Nature Reserve and the Ythan Estuary. Approximate Distance: 3.5 - 6 miles (5.6 - 9.6 km) for a circular walk that typically includes the beach, a sec...

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