Coastal Secrets

Jacki Joyce explores Arbroath's hidden world of sea caves carved out by the restless North Sea

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THE seaside town of Arbroath has a rich and intriguing history. It is most well-known for being the location of the signing of Scotland's Declaration Of Independence in 1320, and foodies will know it as the home of the famed Arbroath smokie.

Having moved to the town in 2018, I am still learning about its history, so when the opportunity came up for me to explore the town's historic cliffs and sea caves - by kayak, no less - I jumped at the chance.

I'd been aware of Arbroath Cliff Tours for a while, but had never gathered enough courage to take the plunge and book myself onto one of the tours - until now.

Arbroath Cliff Tours was started by Cameron Smith during lockdown, when his previous job as a wedding guitarist came to a halt. In his 30s, he had grown up exploring the area and had been kayaking for years, when one day someone asked to be shown the caves.

Later, he posted photos on social media and received over 50 messages from other people asking to be shown the caves - and the rest is history. As well as kayak tours, he offers swimming tours of the cliffs and caves, plus two walking tours.

I arrived at the meeting point at the start of the cliffs at 5.45am. I was starting my day quite a bit earlier than I am used to, but the tides dictate the times of Cam's tours, as everyone's safety is his priority.

It was a beautiful morning: there wasn't a cloud in the sky and the sea was calm with no swell. The sun hadn't long peeped up its head, promising a warm day ahead, and we couldn't wait to get out on the water.

I was one of five people going on this kayak tour, using two two-person kayaks and two single kayaks. I was in a two-person kayak with Cam, which was reassuring - I've kayaked before, but I lack experience and confidence.