ARBROATH KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Mermaid's Dook: A Cliffwalk and Cold‑Water Dip at Arbroath’s Hidden Kirk
A focused two‑hour outing from Arbroath Cliff Tours that pairs a short coastal walk past dramatic features with wildlife spotting and a swim in a secluded natural pool — this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.
Mermaid's Dook: A Cliffwalk and Cold‑Water Dip at Arbroath’s Hidden Kirk.
Begin with a brisk, scenic cliff walk from Arbroath to Dickmont’s Den, take in carved coastal features and seabird activity, then finish by entering Mermaid’s Kirk — a sheltered natural pool beneath the cliffs — for a memorable swim framed by geology and local smuggling lore.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A short cliff walk to Dickmont’s Den
The tour opens with a roughly 30‑minute stroll along the cliffs where the path takes you toward Dickmont’s Den while passing key sea‑carved features and viewpoints.
Seabirds, dolphins and coastal geology
Along the way guides explain Arbroath’s geology and how tides and swell shape the shore, while you scan for seabirds and — if luck allows — dolphins cruising the coast.
Mermaid’s Kirk: a secluded cliff pool
The outing concludes with a swim in Mermaid’s Kirk, a sheltered natural pool below the cliffs; there is an optional group cave‑tunnel swim for those who want it.
What the day feels like
What it feels like
The flow is compact and direct: a guided cliff walk that introduces landmark features and local stories, punctuated by wildlife watching and short interpretive stops, then a deliberate descent to a sheltered pool where the group swims together or relaxes shore‑side.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who should consider this outing — and who should avoid it.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The outing runs approximately 2 hours.
Meet at Arbroath Cliff Tours for departure.
Essentials include a towel, backpack, warm clothes for after, camera/phone, food and drinks. Swimwear, gloves and boots are listed; a wetsuit, boots and gloves are available to rent for £5.
Wear sturdy walking footwear (hiking boots or grippy trainers with ankle support recommended). Summer clothing suggestions include shorts/trousers, hat and sunscreen; in winter bring thermals, rain jacket, gloves and hat. A dry robe is optional.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
I am not the greatest swimmer — can I still come?
Yes. You can choose to be in the water for as little as 10 seconds or stay longer; relax in Mermaid’s Kirk if you do not wish to join the optional cave tunnel swim.
Do I have to do the cave tunnel swim?
No. The cave tunnel swim is optional and undertaken as a group; if you are not confident you may remain in Mermaid’s Kirk instead.
How long must I be in the water?
There is flexibility: participants may be in the water for as little as 10 seconds or for several minutes according to comfort and confidence.
Can I choose to stay on shore while others swim?
Yes. If you prefer not to swim or to skip the cave section you can remain in Mermaid’s Kirk and enjoy the surroundings.
What happens if I’m booked alone?
Solo bookings are accepted but the tour requires a minimum of two people to run; if you are the only person booked the operator will reschedule or refund.