The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Slains And Collieston
4.6
(67)
906
hikers
11
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Slains And Collieston offer a diverse landscape for outdoor exploration. The region is characterized by dramatic sea cliffs, rocky outcrops, and extensive sand dunes, particularly within the Forvie National Nature Reserve. Coastal paths provide views of the North Sea and access to features like the Ythan Estuary, known for its seal colony. The terrain includes both rugged coastal sections and more sheltered areas, making it suitable for various family hiking experiences.
Best family friendly hiking…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.5
(11)
82
hikers
11.8km
03:04
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(7)
52
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
38
hikers
8.32km
02:11
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
28
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The visitor centre is open daily 10am - 4pm. The impressive dune system is always open. 😉
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Don’t get confused with Slain’s Castle, which is further north :-) Very nice walk though!
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A moor lake directly on the hiking trail.
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A beautiful little sandy bay. The coastal path goes above it or you can descend into the bay.
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Here you can find the ruins of the old church of Forvie. The village was buried by a shifting dune in the 16th century.
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Forvie National Nature Reserve is a treasure located north of Newburgh in Aberdeenshire, in the northeast of Scotland. Owned and managed by NatureScot, the reserve is one of Scotland’s most dramatic stretches of coast3. It covers almost 1,000 hectares of sand dunes and dune heath between the North Sea and the estuary of the River Ythan1. The Sands of Forvie, which are the fifth largest sand dune system in Britain, dominate the southern end of the reserve. These sands are the least disturbed by human activity in the country.
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In the 19th century, Collieston was a busy fishing village with an excellent natural harbour. To improve the safety for boats, breakwaters were constructed. This caused the harbour to fill with wonderful golden sand, creating the idyllic sheltered beach of today. The sandy beach is perfect for families and children. The nearby ‘Smugglers Cone’ shop serves delicious ice cream, drinks, and snacks. The beach is also dog-friendly.
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The church stands within 300 yards of the shore and was built at the beginning of the nineteenth century. It accommodates 654 persons with sittings. The church records contain a variety of documents which detail many aspects of the daily lives of all types of people throughout Scotland from the 16th century onwards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Slains And Collieston?
There are 11 family-friendly hiking trails around Slains And Collieston, offering a variety of experiences for all ages. These routes are designed to be enjoyable for families, with manageable distances and gentle paths.
Are there any easy walks suitable for younger children or beginners?
Yes, there are 4 easy-grade routes perfect for younger children or those new to hiking. A great option is the Old Slain's castle from Collieston loop, which offers a pleasant walk to a historic site.
What kind of natural attractions can we expect to see on these family hikes?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore dramatic sea cliffs, rocky outcrops, and even a collapsed sea cave at the Bullers of Buchan. The Forvie National Nature Reserve loop offers a chance to see one of Britain's largest sand dune systems and the Ythan Estuary, home to a large seal colony.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest along the trails?
Absolutely! The area is steeped in history. You can visit the evocative ruins of New Slains Castle, believed to have inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula, or the remnants of Old Slains Castle. The charming fishing village of Collieston itself is also a delightful historical spot.
Are the family-friendly trails suitable for prams or strollers?
While many paths are gentle, the coastal and nature reserve trails can sometimes involve uneven terrain, sand, or steps, making them challenging for prams or strollers. For the most accessible options, look for routes specifically marked as 'easy' and check the route descriptions for surface details. The Old Slain's castle from Collieston loop is generally more manageable.
Can we bring our dog on the family hiking trails, especially in Forvie National Nature Reserve?
Dogs are generally welcome on trails in the Slains and Collieston area, but specific rules apply in sensitive areas like the Forvie National Nature Reserve. Due to the presence of nesting birds and the seal colony, dogs must be kept on a lead in certain parts of the reserve. Always check local signage for the most current regulations to protect wildlife.
Where can we park when visiting the family hiking trails?
Parking is available at several key locations. You'll find parking facilities in Collieston village, which serves as a great starting point for coastal walks. There's also parking at the Forvie National Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, ideal for exploring the reserve's trails.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Slains And Collieston?
Spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for family hikes, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures, perfect for enjoying the coastal scenery and wildlife. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing colours, though be prepared for cooler, potentially windier conditions. Winter hikes are possible but require appropriate gear for colder, shorter days.
Are there any circular routes that are good for families?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Collieston loop offers a scenic circular walk around the village and coastline, while the Hackley Bay from Ythan Estuary loop provides a longer circular option within the nature reserve.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family trails in Slains And Collieston?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic coastal views, the chance to spot seals and diverse birdlife, and the historical landmarks like the castles. The variety of trails, from gentle village strolls to more adventurous coastal paths, is also frequently highlighted.
Are there any secluded beaches accessible via these family trails?
Yes, you can discover serene sandy havens like Hackley Bay, a secluded beach accessible via coastal paths within the Forvie National Nature Reserve. It's a beautiful spot for a family picnic or a moment of quiet reflection.
Most popular attractions around Slains And Collieston
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