King's Cave

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Capture the coastline at King's Cave

Despite the legends, it’s unlikely that Robert the Bruce sheltered in the King’s Cave before the Battle of Bannockburn – or saw the famous spider. But King's Cave is still worth a visit for its superb location on a raised shingle beach and amazing inscriptions. Bring a torch to help you explore.

The circular trail begins and ends in pleasant mixed forest with scenic views across Machrie moor, the Drumadoon cliffs and west towards Ireland.

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Life’s essentials

Blackwaterfoot has the nearest public toilets and eating places.

Walking trails

King's Cave Trail

A beautiful circuit of forest and shoreline with wonderful views inland and across Kilbrannan Sound. Discover legendary King’s Cave where Robert the Bruce is said to have sheltered.

Generally firm but uneven gravel and earth surface. Rough rocky section along the shore and some narrow stretches. Several long steep slopes and two gates.

3 miles /
4.7 km
Allow
2 hours

More information...

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The sea level around Arran was once over 30 feet (10 metres) higher than it is now, so there is a steep descent to get down onto the beach. You'll see the King's Cave in soft sandstone cliffs above the beach, towards the end of the coastal section.

Cycling trails

Mountain biking trails

Ancient history is everywhere here, from the Cave itself to the bronze age hut circles near the car park. You'll also enjoy stirring views across the moor to Machrie's multiple stone circles.

It's a great spot for wildlife too. There are so many habitats here that it's hard to know where to look first. Teal and snipe swim on the forest lochan, seabirds squeal on the shore, red squirrels and barn owls breed in the forest, and buzzards hunt noisily on nearby grassland.

Contact: Forest Enterprise Scotland

Address: Creebridge, Newton Stewart

Postcode: DG8 6AJ

Telephone: 0300 067 6800

Email: enquiries.south@forestryandland.gov.scot

How to get here

Travel by ferry from Ardrossan in North Ayrshire to Brodick.

From Brodick take the B880 (The String) west across the island to Blackwaterfoot. Turn right onto the A841 and travel through Blackwaterfoot towards the north for just under 3 miles (4.8 km) until you see the car park on your left, at grid reference NR 898 315.

Using SatNav?

KA27 8DX is the nearest postcode.

Public transport

The nearest bus stops are at Machrie, Blackwaterfoot and Shiskine. You'll find details at Traveline Scotland.

Nearby places

There are other forest trails at Brodick Castle, North Sannox and Dyemill. The Machrie standing stones are about 1 mile (1.6 km) away.