ST. ABBS

• Latitude: 55.8986
• Longitude: -2.12861
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in UK

Location: Scottish Borders TD14 UK

Web-site: http://www.stabbsharbour.com/

St. Abbs is a small fishing village in Berwickshire on the southeastern coastline of Scotland, UK. It is located near the town of Eyemouth and is renowned for its picturesque harbor, natural beauty, and marine biodiversity, making it a popular destination for divers, nature enthusiasts, and tourists.

Port Description

• Location: St. Abbs is situated in the Scottish Borders, 3 miles north of Eyemouth and approximately 12 miles north of the English-Scottish border.
• Coordinates: Approximately 55.9035° N latitude, 2.1287° W longitude.
• Function: Primarily a fishing port, but also serves diving activities and tourism.

Specifications and Features

• Harbor Type: Natural harbor with artificial enhancements.
• Capacity: Small harbor primarily for local fishing vessels.
• Depth: Limited depth making it suitable for small fishing boats and leisure craft rather than larger commercial vessels.
• Facilities:
  • Mooring: Space for mooring a limited number of small vessels.
  • Slipway: To facilitate the launching and recovery of boats.
  • Fishing: Facilities to support local fishing activities including storage and basic processing areas.
  • Diving: Popular launch point for diving due to nearby marine reserves and diverse marine life.

Accessibility

• Road Access: Accessible via local road networks connecting to larger highways.
• Parking: Limited parking available near the harbor.
• Public Transport: Limited public transport services.

Marine Life and Conservation

• St. Abbs and Eyemouth Voluntary Marine Reserve: The area is known for its rich marine biodiversity, including various species of fish, seabirds, and marine invertebrates. The reserve aims to protect the marine environment and promote sustainable use.
• Diving Sites: Numerous dive sites in the vicinity known for clear waters and abundant marine life. Popular spots include Cathedral Rock, Big Green Carr, and Broad Craig.

Tourism and Recreation

• Visitor Center: St. Abbs Visitor Centre provides information about local wildlife, marine life, and the history of the village.
• Coastal Walks: Numerous scenic coastal paths for hiking and bird watching.
• Accommodation: Limited, but there are small bed and breakfasts, guest houses, and self-catering cottages available.
• Cafes and Shops: Small local shops and cafes serving visitors and the local community.

Nearby Attractions

• St. Abb's Head National Nature Reserve: Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, this nature reserve is a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.
• Eyemouth: Larger town nearby with additional amenities, attractions, and a more extensive harbor.

Historical Significance

• Heritage: St. Abbs’ history is closely tied to fishing, and the village has a rich cultural and maritime heritage.
• Formerly Known as Coldingham Shore: The name change to St. Abbs occurred in the late 19th century inspired by the nearby St. Abb's Head promontory.

In summary, St. Abbs’ harbor is a charming and practical facility that serves the local fishing community, supports recreational activities, particularly diving, and acts as a gateway to the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding marine and coastal environments.