Montrose Basin is an enclosed estuary of the river South Esk covering 750 hectares of tidal mudflats offering feeding and roosting ground to a plethora of bird species.

There is plenty to see at any time of the year – winter is best for seeing our resident kingfisher, in the spring and summer we see sand martins, common terns, and osprey, and in the autumn we see the amazing spectacle of tens of thousands of pink-footed geese at dawn and dusk.

The visitor centre also has a gift shop, a small coffee shop, and kids’ activities.

There are various walks and hides around Montrose Basin to enjoy. Please note that walks on the reserve are free of charge but take place from different car parks. Please refer to the Scottish Wildlife Trust website for details.

Opening Times

Mid-February to end October: Monday to Sunday – 10.30am to 5pm

1 November to mid-February: Friday to Monday – 10.30am to 4pm