Beaches & Coastal Adventures

Cove Harbour

Nestled beneath the dramatic Berwickshire cliffs, Cove Harbour is a small, historic fishing harbour carved into the rock and reached through a striking man-made tunnel, making it one of the area’s hidden gems. Rather than a traditional beach, it offers a sheltered inlet surrounded by rugged cliffs and striking rock formations, with an atmospheric sense of history and isolation that feels almost untouched by the modern world.

It’s a wonderful place for families to explore, with children enjoying wandering around the harbour, discovering its fascinating tunnels, and learning about its fishing heritage. The sheltered waters are also perfect for crab fishing—just bring a bucket, a line, and some bait for simple seaside fun.

Wildlife enthusiasts can look out for seabirds, seals, and other coastal creatures, while photographers and artists will find endless inspiration in the dramatic scenery. With plenty of space to sit and take in the views, it’s also an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic or a short walk along this atmospheric stretch of coastline.

Pease Bay

Pease Bay is the most well-known beach in the Cockburnspath area, offering a wide sweep of golden sand set between dramatic sandstone cliffs and rolling dunes. It has a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, particularly in the summer months when the caravan park is active, while still retaining a strong sense of natural coastal beauty.

The expansive beach makes it ideal for classic family seaside activities such as sandcastle building, beach games, and paddling in the shallows. At low tide, the shoreline opens up to reveal fascinating rock pools, where children can search for crabs, small fish, and other marine life.

Pease Bay is also a popular spot for surfers, adding an engaging sense of movement and energy to the seascape, with waves rolling in along the open bay. Families often enjoy simply watching the surf from the shore, making it an entertaining and calming experience even for younger children.

Beyond the beach itself, Pease Bay provides direct access to sections of the stunning Berwickshire Coastal Path, offering family-friendly walking routes with spectacular coastal views and opportunities to spot seabirds and local wildlife. Just inland, the nearby Pease Dean woodland offers a peaceful contrast to the coastline, with sheltered walks through ancient trees and rich natural scenery.

Together, the beach, cliffs, and woodland create a versatile destination—equally suited to active family beach days, gentle coastal walks, and moments of quiet appreciation of the landscape.

St Abbs

Just a short drive from Cockburnspath and Cove, St Abbs is a charming fishing village renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery and abundant wildlife. Families can enjoy leisurely walks around the harbour, watching fishing boats come and go while taking in the stunning sea views. The surrounding cliffs are home to a variety of seabirds, making it one of the best places in the region for wildlife spotting. During the warmer months, seasonal boat trips operate from the harbour, giving visitors the chance to explore the coastline from the water and perhaps even spot seals, dolphins, or puffins. Older children and film fans may also be interested to know that St Abbs was transformed into “New Asgard” for scenes in the blockbuster movie Avengers: Endgame, making it a fun destination for Marvel enthusiasts as well as nature lovers.

Dunglass Beach

Located just west of Pease Bay, Dunglass Beach is a quieter and more rugged stretch of coastline, perfect for those seeking a more peaceful experience. The shoreline here is a mix of rocks, shingle, and small sandy patches, with striking views along the cliffs and out to sea. It’s particularly good for coastal walking and exploring rock pools at low tide, with a sense of seclusion that makes it feel more remote than nearby beaches. Access is more limited, which helps preserve its calm and unspoilt character.

Thorntonloch Beach

Thorntonloch Beach is a long, open stretch of sand located a short drive north towards Dunbar, offering a very different feel from the more enclosed bays nearby. Its wide shoreline and expansive views make it ideal for long walks, dog walking, and enjoying the sense of space that comes with a less developed beach. On breezier days, it is also popular for kite flying and windsurfing. Quiet and uncrowded for much of the year, it’s a great option for those looking for a simple, peaceful coastal escape.