Spittal
Spittal village stands on the south bank of the Tweed and because of its lovely sandy beach became a seaside resort. The Victorian promenade and 'Venetian' pavilion, built in 1928, give the beach a traditional feel and it is a popular place for a classic beach day.
What can I do?
- Enjoy the geology! The whole shoreline from Spittal to Far Skerr is of great geological interest with numerous exposed strata of rocks. Limestone in the area is also rich in fossils of crinoids, brachiopods and other life. And look out for some pink sandstone.
- Go rock pooling in sight of the cliffs. The shore is comprised of large folding saddlebacks of sedimentary rock that create some excellent rock pool gullies rich in marine life. Be careful though, these rugged rocky platforms are difficult to walk along.
- Enjoy The Promenade and have a look at the Venetian Pavilion (now an amusement arcade). Built by the Forte family in the 1930s, it was later given a classical colonnade and ballroom. (The white concrete Beach Shelter is of the same period). Take the kids to Spittal’s excellent new Splash Park.
- If you’re coming in August, why not time your visit to coincide with the Spittal Seaside Festival which celebrates traditional seaside pastimes.
- Follow the Lowry Trail through Berwick town, via Spittal Point and along Spittal Prom. You can learn about the close involvement and inspiration the artist LS Lowry developed with the area.
- Look for divers, grebes and seaducks offshore during the winter. If you fancy wandering inland, the Tweed Valley is great place to see wintering flocks of geese and swans.
How do I get to Spittal?
Head for Berwick-upon-Tweed where you can catch a regular bus to Spittal.