Seawatching with some superb views to Ireland
Portpatrick village was founded on fishing, due to its sandy, crescentshaped harbour that remains the focal point of the village today. This circular walk can offer you views of the Northern Irish coast only 21 miles away, and the Gulf Stream gives the coastline a pleasant climate, in which subtropical plant life can flourish. The Southern Upland Way starts here and continues for 212 miles to the east coast.
Where to Watch
1 Park down by the harbour, which can be busy at weekends, and start checking for auks. One species that sticks out is the very tame Black Guillemot, ideal for photographers, especially in the breeding season, when several pairs nest in the harbour wall. Turnstones can be present in winter.
2 Walk around to the start of the steps onto the cliffs. Check for gulls and divers back in the harbour and then from the cliffs. Breeding seabirds are herring Gull, Fulmar, Shag and Razorbill, but many more species are seen at sea with many Gannets from Ailsa Craig, off Arran, and Guillemots and Kittiwakes, from the Mull of Galloway. Look through the auk flocks for Puffins. Manx Shearwaters breed off the Calf of Man and Ailsa Craig, and can be seen during storms. Skuas are likely in spring, with Pomarine seen on seabird cruises out from the harbour.
3 Walk along the cliff path. Recent Fulmar numbers around these coasts have collapsed (possibly owing to plastic pollution). Listen for Rock Pipits, and on a clear day look for Ireland! Both Linnets and Whitethroat breed along the cliff, with Stonechats seen, too, especially in winter, plus Rock Pipit. Both Raven and Peregrine can drift by.
4 Follow the old railway line back to the minor road, looking out for finches and warblers on your way.
5 Once on the minor road walk back towards Port Patrick checking the fields for gulls and waders such as Oystercatcher, or the likes of Wheatear in spring and autumn.
6 Drop back towards the harbour using the pavement provided, checking the gardens for birds using feeders and any gulls passing over.