St-johns-gardenstown

About trip

Walk past the densely-packed fishermen's cottages of Gardenstown and across the beach before following a grassy path to a ruined churchyard, with stunning views back to Gardenstown. The adventurous can continue on a very rugged path near steep drops for even better views.

2miles, 1-1.5hrs, grade 1

Terrain

Pebble and sand beach then a grassy path climbing up to the churchyard. The optional path onward up the cliff is very rough, narrow and could be dangerous.

Stage 1

Turn right at the bottom of the hill in Gardenstown and drive past the fishermen's garages to reach a parking area just beyond. Begin the walk by heading back along the road and across the back of the harbour. Continue along the seafront; the cottages of Seatown are on your left. Their gable ends face the sea to offer some protection from the storms, and tiny alleyways climb up and wind between the densely-packed cottages.

Stage 2

At the far end of Seatown walk down the concrete ramp onto the sandy beach. Further along the beach becomes pebbly and there are strangely sculpted red sandstone cliffs on the left. At the far end there is a narrow grassy glen heading inland on the left; follow a path up this. The path winds about and around some grassy knolls before swinging to the right uphill out of the glen.

Stage 3

Continue past the derelict cottage and on up to the churchyard; the entrance is on the uphill side. The ruins have a superb view back across the beach to Gardenstown, with Troup Head beyond. The old church here, dedicated to St John the Evangelist, predates the village as it was built in 1513. For most visitors it is best to return the same way once you have enjoyed the view. For the energetic, the path continues climbing across the steep cliffs but is rough and overgrown, requiring great care near the edge. The reward is a more extensive view along the coast in both directions from the top.