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Mermaid of the North, Balintore

Discover the enchanting bronze Mermaid of the North perched on the Scottish shore, a captivating blend of myth, art, and coastal heritage.

4.5

The Mermaid of the North is a striking 10-foot bronze statue perched on 'Clach Dubh' (Black Rock) along the shore of Balintore in Easter Ross, Scotland. Inspired by local folklore, it depicts a mermaid who was taken from the sea by a fisherman, lost her tail, bore children, then returned to the ocean, visiting to bring fish to her offspring. Part of the Seaboard Sculpture Trail, this iconic sculpture blends myth, coastal heritage, and artistry in a scenic village setting.

A brief summary to Mermaid of the North

  • East St, Tain, Balintore, IV20 1UA, GB
  • +441862832888
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 2 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 at high tide to see the mermaid’s tail submerged, enhancing the sculpture’s magical appearance.
  • Bring a camera for excellent photo opportunities with the sea and village backdrop.
  • Explore the Seaboard Sculpture Trail to discover other maritime-themed artworks nearby.
  • Check weather conditions before visiting, as the coastal path can be slippery when wet.
  • Enjoy a picnic near the shore and watch for dolphins which are sometimes visible from the beach.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Drive to the Seaboard Centre car park in Balintore, approximately 25–40 minutes from Tain town. The car park offers free parking, and from there, a short 300-yard walk along a flat, well-maintained sculpture trail leads to the Mermaid statue. Note that parking can be limited during peak tourist season.

  • Bus

    Take the local bus service from Tain to Balintore, which runs several times daily with a journey time of about 30–45 minutes. From the bus stop, the Mermaid is a 10-minute walk along East Street and then onto the sculpture trail. Bus services may be less frequent on weekends and public holidays.

  • Walking

    For visitors staying nearby in Balintore or Hilton, a pleasant 15–25 minute walk along coastal paths and village streets leads to the Mermaid. The terrain is mostly flat but includes some uneven pebbled beach areas near the statue, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Mermaid of the North location weather suitability

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

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Discover more about Mermaid of the North

Legendary Origins and Local Folklore

The Mermaid of the North is deeply rooted in the rich folklore of Easter Ross. The statue commemorates a poignant local legend about a fisherman who stole a beautiful mermaid from the sea, hiding her tail to keep her on land. After many years and having children with him, the mermaid eventually found her tail and escaped back to the ocean. She is said to return regularly to the shore to bring fish to her children, symbolizing enduring maternal love and the connection between land and sea.

Artistic Creation and Evolution

Originally sculpted in 2007 by Steve Hayward from bronzed wood during the Highland Year of Culture, the Mermaid stood as a centerpiece of the Seaboard Sculpture Trail, which celebrates the area's maritime heritage through various sea-themed artworks. However, the original statue was severely damaged by storms in 2012 due to its wooden and resin construction. In 2014, it was replaced by an identical, more durable bronze-cast version funded partly by a grant from SSE, ensuring the statue's resilience against the harsh coastal weather.

Setting and Visitor Experience

The statue sits majestically on a rock known as 'Clach Dubh' (meaning Black Rock in Gaelic) right at the shoreline of Balintore, a quaint fishing village. Visitors can reach the Mermaid via a short 300-yard walk from the Seaboard Centre car park along a pleasant sculpture trail. The location offers scenic views of the sea and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular spot for photography, picnics, and quiet reflection. At high tide, the mermaid’s tail is submerged, enhancing the illusion of her emerging from the water.

Community Significance and Tourism

The Mermaid of the North is cherished by locals and has become a valued symbol of community identity and heritage. It draws tourists traveling the North Coast 500 route, contributing to local tourism and economy. The sculpture’s story and presence foster a sense of place, connecting visitors with the maritime traditions and myths of the Scottish Highlands.

Complementary Sculptures and Trail

The Mermaid is part of the wider Seaboard Sculpture Trail, which includes other notable sea-themed works such as giant salmon statues and slate monuments. This trail celebrates the area's fishing heritage, folklore, and natural beauty, offering visitors a cultural and artistic journey along the coast.

Seasonal and Environmental Context

The coastal location means the experience varies with tides and weather. The statue’s interaction with the sea—especially when the tide covers her tail—adds a dynamic element to visits. The surrounding village is peaceful and picturesque, with opportunities to spot local wildlife such as dolphins offshore, particularly in summer months.

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