The St Abbs Visitor Centre
Discover St Abbs’ rich maritime heritage and stunning coastal beauty at this welcoming centre overlooking the harbour.
Nestled in the charming fishing village of St Abbs on the Berwickshire coastline, The St Abbs Visitor Centre offers an engaging introduction to the area's rich maritime heritage and stunning natural environment. Overlooking the harbour, the centre features interactive exhibits, panoramic views, and a gift shop showcasing local art and crafts. It serves as a gateway to the nearby St Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve and marine reserve, making it an essential stop for walkers, birdwatchers, divers, and nature enthusiasts.
A brief summary to The St Abbs Visitor Centre
- Coldingham Rd, Eyemouth, Saint Abbs, TD14 5PL, GB
- +441890771672
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit between April and October when the centre is open daily from 10am to 5pm.
- Ask staff about wheelchair access in advance to arrange the ramp for easier entry.
- Explore the nearby St Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve for spectacular seabird watching and coastal walks.
- Support local artists by browsing the gift shop’s selection of handmade crafts and books.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from the A1, take the signposted turn-off to St Abbs and follow the village signs. The journey from the A1 to the centre takes about 10-15 minutes. Limited parking is available near the centre, including one Blue Badge bay. Parking is free. Suitable for all vehicles.
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Bus
Borders Buses route 235 runs between Berwick and St Abbs, with several daily services. From Edinburgh, take bus 253 to Eyemouth, then transfer to the 235 to St Abbs. Total travel time varies between 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on connections. Tickets cost approximately £5-£10.
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Train and Taxi
The nearest mainline train station is Berwick-Upon-Tweed, about 14 miles away. From there, a taxi ride of approximately 25 minutes will bring you to the centre. Train fares vary; taxis typically cost around £30-£40.
The St Abbs Visitor Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The St Abbs Visitor Centre
A Hub of Local Heritage and Community
The St Abbs Visitor Centre is housed in the former Village Hall, a building steeped in history that once served as a school and church for the local fishing community. This transformation into a modern visitor centre preserves the village’s cultural fabric while providing a welcoming space for education and exploration. The centre is operated by an independent Scottish charity focused on promoting awareness of St Abbs’ past and present, including its people and environment.Immersive Exhibits and Panoramic Views
Inside, visitors find interactive displays that tell the story of St Abbs, from its fishing heritage to its role in marine conservation. Large windows frame sweeping views of St Abbs Harbour and the rugged coastline beyond, blending natural beauty with cultural insight. The centre’s layout is accessible, with all exhibits on one level and a wheelchair ramp available on request, ensuring inclusivity.Gateway to Natural Wonders
The centre serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the Berwickshire coastline and the adjacent St Abb’s Head National Nature Reserve. This nearby reserve is renowned for dramatic cliffs, diverse seabird colonies, and wildflower meadows. Visitors can learn about the local geology, wildlife, and conservation efforts, enriching their outdoor adventures along the coastal paths and marine reserve.Supporting Local Art and Sustainability
The gift shop offers a curated selection of local artworks, books, souvenirs, and beach games, with proceeds supporting the centre’s operations. This not only promotes local artisans but also encourages sustainable tourism practices, helping to preserve the unique character and environment of St Abbs.Seasonal Operation and Accessibility
Open from April to October, the centre welcomes visitors daily from 10am to 5pm. It is accessible by car, with a Blue Badge parking bay nearby, and public transport options include bus routes connecting to Berwick-Upon-Tweed and Eyemouth. The centre’s location and facilities make it an inviting stop for families, solo travelers, and anyone interested in Scotland’s coastal heritage.A Place of Learning and Connection
More than just a visitor centre, it acts as a community hub where locals and tourists alike can deepen their appreciation of the natural and cultural treasures of the Scottish Borders. Whether you come for the exhibits, the views, or the friendly atmosphere, The St Abbs Visitor Centre offers a meaningful and memorable experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scoutscroft Leisure Park | Verdant Leisure
1.7 km
Relax by the stunning Berwickshire coast with cozy self-catering lodges, pet-friendly amenities, and seaside adventures at Scoutscroft Leisure Park.
Visit Berwickshire Coast
4.0 km
Explore the Berwickshire Coast: A stunning blend of natural beauty, rich history, and charming coastal towns perfect for a memorable getaway.
Lamberton Skerrs
9.7 km
Explore the rugged cliffs and historic smuggling ruins of Lamberton Skerrs, where maritime history meets breathtaking North Sea views.
Royal Border Bridge
16.0 km
Victorian engineering triumph spanning the River Tweed—still carrying trains 175 years after Queen Victoria's opening.
Lord's Mount
16.0 km
Explore Lord’s Mount, a towering Tudor artillery fortification guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed with panoramic views and rich border history.
Cumberland Bastion
16.2 km
Explore Cumberland Bastion, a striking Elizabethan fortification embodying Berwick-upon-Tweed’s turbulent border history and military heritage.
Broad Shiel
16.2 km
Historic fishing shelter on the River Tweed, offering serene views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s rich border heritage.
Royal Tweed Bridge
16.5 km
A 1920s reinforced concrete arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, blending engineering innovation with scenic river views in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Town Hall
16.5 km
A majestic 18th-century neoclassical landmark, Berwick Town Hall stands as the historic heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed’s civic life and heritage.
Berwick Bridge
16.6 km
A majestic 17th-century sandstone arch bridge spanning the River Tweed, linking history, heritage, and scenic vistas in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Berwick Town Walls
16.9 km
Explore Britain’s only complete Elizabethan town walls—historic bastions offering panoramic views over Berwick and the North Sea.
Coxon's Tower
17.0 km
Explore Coxon's Tower, a medieval sentinel transformed through centuries guarding Berwick-upon-Tweed’s iconic Elizabethan walls and river estuary.
Berwick Lighthouse
17.6 km
Historic 19th-century lighthouse at Berwick Pier’s end, offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into Berwick-upon-Tweed’s maritime heritage.
Berwickshire High School
19.8 km
Discover Berwickshire High School in Duns, a charming educational institution that reflects the rich culture of the Scottish Borders.
Raecleugh Head Prehistoric Fort
22.5 km
Explore the ancient earthworks and panoramic views of Raecleugh Head Prehistoric Fort, a remarkable hillfort in the heart of Berwickshire's historic landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
St Abbs Harbour
0.1 km
Discover St Abbs Harbour, a rugged fishing village where dramatic cliffs meet crystal-clear waters and rich maritime heritage thrives.
St Abbs
0.4 km
Discover St Abbs, a rugged fishing village with dramatic cliffs, vibrant marine life, and Britain’s first Voluntary Marine Reserve.
Milldown Bay
1.1 km
Discover Milldown Bay’s tranquil shores, vibrant marine life, and scenic coastal paths in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
St Abb's Head
2.0 km
Dramatic Scottish cliffs and vibrant seabird colonies meet wild coastal beauty at St Abb's Head National Nature Reserve.
Coldingham Priory
2.1 km
Explore Coldingham Priory, a serene medieval Benedictine site with ancient roots, peaceful gardens, and a rich Scottish religious heritage.
Eyemouth Beach
3.9 km
A sandy, dog-friendly bay by Eyemouth Harbour, offering rockpools, seal watching, and dramatic North Sea waves on the scenic Scottish Borders coast.
Eyemouth Museum
4.1 km
Discover Eyemouth’s rich maritime heritage and community stories in this charming coastal museum with interactive exhibits and a welcoming atmosphere.
Fast Castle
6.8 km
Perched on dramatic cliffs, Fast Castle’s ruins tell tales of medieval battles, royal visits, and coastal legends in scenic Berwickshire.
England / Scotland Border
11.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of the England/Scotland border in Berwick-upon-Tweed, a must-visit for every tourist.
Cove Harbour
14.0 km
Historic fishing harbour with timeless charm, scenic coastal walks, and a unique tunnel leading to a sandy beach in the Scottish Borders.
Red Cliffs in Berwick-upon-Tweed
15.1 km
Experience breathtaking red sandstone cliffs and stunning coastal views just north of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Paxton House
15.4 km
Discover the grandeur of Paxton House, a stunning 18th-century Palladian mansion with exquisite art, gardens, and riverside charm near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts
15.9 km
Walk the most complete Elizabethan ramparts in England, where medieval castle ruins meet panoramic views of Berwick and the River Tweed.
Edin's Hall Broch
16.2 km
Discover the rare Iron Age broch nestled in the Scottish Borders, a striking prehistoric fortress far south of Scotland’s typical broch heartlands.
Union Bridge
16.4 km
Walk or cycle across the world’s oldest vehicular suspension bridge, a stunning 1820 engineering landmark linking England and Scotland over the River Tweed.
Essential places to dine
The Ship Restaurant & Bar
4.1 km
A vibrant modern British restaurant and bar in Eyemouth, serving fresh local seafood and hearty fare in a lively, dog-friendly harbour-side setting.
Oblo
4.1 km
Stylish harbourfront bistro in Eyemouth serving fresh seasonal dishes, cocktails, and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
The Heathers Restaurant
4.6 km
Fresh seafood and harbour views in a historic golf clubhouse overlooking Eyemouth's working waterfront.
Cedar Cafe
10.2 km
Cozy and affordable cafe in Grantshouse offering hearty breakfasts, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere every day from 9 AM to 4:30 PM.
Restaurant 1782
12.4 km
Exquisite modern British dining in a historic manor with stunning sea views and seasonal local ingredients near Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Allanton Inn
14.1 km
A charming countryside inn offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and tranquil garden views in the heart of the Scottish Borders.
The Cross Inn Pub & kitchen
14.4 km
A charming countryside pub in Paxton offering traditional British fare, warm hospitality, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
The Castle Hotel & Restaurant
15.9 km
Historic charm meets modern comfort just steps from Berwick’s railway station and town centre.
Audela
16.6 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a charming historic setting on Berwick’s Bridge Street.
Foxtons Winebar & Restaurant
16.6 km
A cozy Berwick-upon-Tweed wine bar and restaurant offering local flavors, vegan and gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Amore Restaurant
16.7 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed, with charming indoor and garden terrace dining.
Ivy 43
16.7 km
Ivy 43 offers expertly crafted dishes and warm hospitality within the historic Kings Arms Hotel in the heart of Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Limoncello
16.7 km
Experience fresh, authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting at Berwick’s beloved Limoncello on historic Hide Hill.
Ord House Lounge Bar & Grill
17.0 km
A welcoming family-friendly bar and grill in Berwick-upon-Tweed serving hearty homemade classics with fun for all ages.
Jim Clark Cafe Bistro
18.9 km
A charming bistro in Duns serving British and French-inspired dishes with home-baked treats and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CJR Gifts & Designs
2.7 km
Handcrafted artisan treasures celebrating the creative spirit of the Scottish Borders.
The Seagull's Nest
16.4 km
Discover Berwick-upon-Tweed’s charming seaside gift shop filled with unique nautical treasures and local crafts.
Loop Emporium
16.5 km
Discover unique vintage and upcycled fashion treasures in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at Loop Emporium.
Bijoux
16.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Bijoux, a charming gift shop in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Artisans at Serendipity
16.5 km
Discover unique handmade gifts by local artists in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Derrants
16.5 km
Discover unique local gifts and artisan treasures in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at Derrants.
Unique Antiques
16.6 km
Discover quirky, unique antiques in the heart of historic Berwick-upon-Tweed at this charming Hide Hill shop.
No.1 Woolmarket Vintage Department Store
16.6 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and local heritage within Berwick-upon-Tweed’s historic Woolmarket district.
Granny's Keepsakes
16.8 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and heartfelt keepsakes in the charming, friendly boutique of Granny's Keepsakes in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
Number 18 Shop
18.9 km
Explore Number 18 Shop in Duns for unique clothing, handcrafted candles, stylish handbags, and exquisite jewelry, perfect for souvenirs.
ScotlandShop
19.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans and bespoke tailoring in Duns’ premier showroom, celebrating heritage with over 500 clan plaids.
The National Trust Shop
32.8 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at The National Trust Shop in historic Berwick-upon-Tweed.
The Good Gift Company
38.2 km
Discover unique, thoughtful gifts in the welcoming heart of Kelso at The Good Gift Company, your boutique destination for special keepsakes.
Doreen Shepherd Designs
38.3 km
Discover bespoke elegance and timeless Scottish craftsmanship at Doreen Shepherd Designs in Kelso’s charming Scottish Borders.
The Original Factory Shop (Kelso)
38.3 km
Affordable brand-name bargains in the heart of Kelso with a wide variety of clothing, homeware, and beauty essentials.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Contented Sole
4.1 km
A friendly harbour-side pub offering fresh seafood and traditional Scottish fare in the heart of Eyemouth’s fishing community.
The First & Last Inn
7.3 km
Cozy coastal pub and B&B in Upper Burnmouth offering hearty meals, friendly service, and scenic Scottish Borders charm.
The Craw Inn
9.4 km
Charming country inn in Auchencrow offering hearty food, cozy rooms, real ales, and warm Scottish Borders hospitality.
Leaping Salmon
16.4 km
A vibrant, friendly pub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering hearty British fare, real ales, live sports, and scenic riverside views.
The Thatch
16.4 km
A friendly family-run pub in Tweedmouth offering great drinks, a games room, and a welcoming community atmosphere near Berwick’s old bridge.
The Barrels
16.6 km
Traditional charm and award-winning ales meet lively music and local spirit in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s beloved Barrels Ale House.
The Curfew Micropub
16.6 km
A cozy micropub in Berwick-upon-Tweed offering exceptional ales, warm hospitality, and a charming local atmosphere.
The Radio Rooms
17.1 km
A lively bar and event space in Berwick-upon-Tweed, celebrated for live music, vegan snacks, and a welcoming community vibe.
The Bear & Bull
26.5 km
A friendly, dog-welcoming bar and café on Dunbar’s High Street, offering quality food, drinks, and a warm local atmosphere.
BEST PUBLIC BAR
28.7 km
A cozy, traditional pub in Coldstream offering authentic Scottish Border hospitality in a charming rural setting.
The Lindisfarne Inn
28.7 km
Historic charm meets coastal comfort at The Lindisfarne Inn, your welcoming base in Berwick-upon-Tweed’s scenic borderland.
The Vibe
38.5 km
A vibrant late-night bar in Kelso’s heart, The Vibe offers a lively spot for drinks and socializing until the early hours.
The Auld Hoose
40.6 km
A lively North Berwick pub famed for craft drinks, massive portions, and a welcoming rock ’n’ roll vibe in a cozy, dog-friendly setting.
The New Pheasant
40.6 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and hearty local fare at The New Pheasant, a cozy pub nestled in the heart of historic Haddington.
Mercat
40.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and lively local charm at Mercat Pub, the heart of Haddington’s social scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
GREEN HOUSE | Berwick Upon Tweed
16.4 km
Berwick-upon-Tweed’s vibrant late-night hotspot offering lively music and dancing in the heart of the historic town.
BedRocks
16.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Berwick-upon-Tweed at BedRocks, a lively nightclub and bar known for its energetic atmosphere and affordable drinks.
The Royal British Legion
38.4 km
Discover community, camaraderie, and local entertainment at The Royal British Legion in Kelso - a vibrant hub for visitors and locals.
Nothing
49.1 km
Experience immersive alternative rock concerts by Nothing in the intimate, historic setting of London’s Moth Club.
Morven
51.8 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Morven Nightclub in Oxnam, near Melrose, where great music, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable memories await.
Warehouse Nightclub
52.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
The Indigo Rooms
52.7 km
Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.
Truth
63.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife with great music, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere at Truth nightclub in Leven, Fife.
Leith Dockers Club
65.1 km
Discover the vibrant Leith Dockers Club, a social haven in Edinburgh offering live music, community events, and a taste of local culture.
Borders Blues club
66.0 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Borders Blues Club, where the best of British blues music comes alive in Innerleithen.
The Vale Of Leithen Social Club
66.0 km
A friendly members' club in Innerleithen offering live music, affordable drinks, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
66.0 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
66.0 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
66.0 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
66.0 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
