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Bullers of Buchan: Dramatic Coastal Chasm and Seabird Sanctuary

Explore a breathtaking 30-meter deep collapsed sea cave and vibrant seabird sanctuary along Aberdeenshire’s rugged northeast coast.

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The Bullers of Buchan is a striking collapsed sea cave on Scotland’s northeast coast near Peterhead. This 30-meter deep circular chasm, formed by the sea rushing through a natural archway, offers spectacular cliff-top views and vibrant seabird colonies including puffins, kittiwakes, and guillemots. The site lies along the scenic Buchan coastal footpath and is a protected area recognized for its unique geology and rich wildlife.

A brief summary to Bullers of Buchan

  • A975, Peterhead, AB42 0NS, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit between May and July for the best chance to see nesting puffins and other seabirds.
  • Wear sturdy footwear for the narrow and sometimes slippery clifftop paths.
  • Bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens to observe seabirds and marine life in detail.
  • Be cautious near cliff edges as the terrain is rugged and exposed to strong coastal winds.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Slains Castle and the Longhaven wildlife reserve.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Drive via the A975 road from Peterhead or Aberdeen, with a journey time of approximately 20 to 40 minutes depending on starting point. Parking is available near the site, but spaces are limited and no formal tourist facilities are on site.

  • Bus

    Take the Stagecoach Bluebird X63 bus service connecting Aberdeen and Peterhead. The stop near Bullers of Buchan is a short walk from the site. Bus frequency varies, so check the schedule in advance. The fare typically ranges from £5 to £10 one way.

  • Walking

    For active visitors, the Bullers of Buchan is accessible via the Buchan coastal footpath. Walking from Cruden Bay or Longhaven wildlife reserve takes 1 to 2 hours over narrow, uneven cliff paths requiring good footwear and caution.

Bullers of Buchan location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Windy Conditions
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Bullers of Buchan

Geological Wonder of the North-East Coast

The Bullers of Buchan is renowned for its dramatic natural formation: a collapsed sea cave that has created an almost perfectly circular chasm approximately 30 meters deep. The sea forcefully rushes into this 'pot' through a natural rock arch, producing a dynamic and powerful spectacle. This geological marvel is a prime example of coastal erosion sculpting the rugged cliffs of Aberdeenshire, showcasing a variety of coastal landforms including sea stacks, arches, and caves. The site’s impressive rock formations contribute to its designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for coastal geomorphology.

Thriving Habitat for Seabirds and Marine Life

The cliffs surrounding the Bullers of Buchan provide vital nesting grounds for numerous seabird species. In spring and summer, visitors can observe colonies of puffins, kittiwakes, fulmars, shags, razorbills, and guillemots, among others. The area supports nationally important populations, with some species such as the black-legged kittiwake and common guillemot representing significant percentages of their UK populations. Grey seals often bask in the bay below, and dolphins are frequently spotted offshore, adding to the rich marine biodiversity.

Historical and Cultural Context

Near the Bullers lies a small hamlet historically known as a fishing village, with remnants like a slipway visible at low tide. The area has deep historical roots, with nearby prehistoric monuments and sites of ancient battles between Danes and Picts. The Bullers of Buchan was noted by the 18th-century literary figure James Boswell, who described the chasm as a 'monstrous cauldron.' The location also had a railway halt from 1900 to 1932, reflecting its longstanding appeal as a visitor destination.

Visitor Experience and Scenic Trails

Visitors access the Bullers of Buchan via the A975 road, with a car park nearby but no formal tourist facilities on site. The location is part of the Buchan coastal footpath, offering a narrow clifftop walk with breathtaking views of the North Sea and surrounding cliffs. The path connects to other notable coastal sites such as Slains Castle and the Longhaven wildlife reserve. The cliff tops bloom with wildflowers including campion, heather, and orchids during warmer months, enhancing the sensory experience.

Conservation and Protected Status

The Bullers of Buchan and its surrounding coastline are protected as part of the larger Buchan Ness to Collieston Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Area (SPA). These designations safeguard the unique vegetated sea cliffs and the internationally important breeding seabird colonies. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining the natural habitat, supporting rare plant communities, and preserving the geological integrity of the cliffs.

Seasonal Highlights and Wildlife Watching

The best time to visit is from late spring to early summer when seabirds are actively nesting and wildflowers color the landscape. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts often come to photograph puffins and other seabirds. The powerful sea movements within the chasm create a dramatic natural display, especially during rough weather, making the Bullers of Buchan a captivating destination year-round.

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