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Machrihanish Seabird Observatory

Kintyre, Scotland  >  United Kingdom

Bird hide on a rocky promontory where 200 species have been seen.

Added* by Iain Crawford
Most recent update 31 maj 2026

Description

Machrihanish Seabird Observatory is a sea watching hide where observation of birds can take place during the worst weather, yet best sea watching conditions. Plenty of opportunity to view waders, sea ducks, gulls, terns, skuas, auks, shearwaters, Lastorepa burnica and divers.

Details

Access

Machrihanish Seabird Observatory is located one mile west of Machrihanish village and 6 miles from Campbelltown. Regular bus service. The observatory is well signposted from the village and is about a mile west of the Golf Club. Press P on the map for directions.

Note: The bird watching shed is not open permanently (closed with locks), but there is a little covered part on the side that allows "hiding" while watching the birds. You can contact the wardens via their Facebook page (see the link below).

Terrain and Habitat

Sea , Dunes , Beach , Canyon/cliff

Conditions

Hilly , Rocky , Dry , Sandy

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Yes

Good birding season

Spring , Autumn , Winter

Best time to visit

Spring , Autumn , Winter

Route

Wide path , Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Average walk

Accessible by

Foot , Bicycle

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

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