Have you ever wanted to know where the pebbles on the beach come from? How did they form? How did they get there? How long ago did all this happen? Come along to find out the geology story behind the ancient history of the Auchmithie beach pebbles!
At Auchmithie you can see incredible examples of sandstone conglomerate cliffs formed by a giant Mississippi sized river that once flowed over vast parts of the land over 370 million years ago. The beach is peppered with eroded cobbles and pebbles from these deposits which all have an incredible story to tell; from erupting volcanos to colliding continents. Learn how to identify your local rocks on Auchmithie beach and become a geologist for the day! We’ll discover an amazing variety of pebbles, find out where they come from and what they tell us about Scotland’s geology. We’ll also find out why the beach looks the way it does, and how it might change in the next few decades with climate change.
You can try out some games and activities that will help you find out more about Scotland’s geology and make you think! Build a mini drystane dyke, skim some stones, or help make a map of the area. All welcome! The beach pebble event is a drop-in event between 12pm – 4pm on both Saturday and Sunday, there is no need to book, but get in touch with the organiser if you have any questions. In the event of bad weather, the event may be cancelled or postponed – please check with the organiser on the day.
The road down to the beach has been closed to vehicles by the owners as it is badly eroded. It is unsuitable for wheelchairs. There is access to the beach via 37 steps from the middle of the village. These are steep and can be slippery when wet, sensible footwear is recommended. There will be two accessible and informative presentations each day in Auchmithie Village Hall at 11am and 1pm by local geologists, Morag Smith & Robert Scott, for those who are unable or who prefer not to go down to the beach. Spaces limited, first come first served.
The HAAR Archive Collection of photos, census and historical literature will be on display both days. Tea and Coffee will be available in the Hall between 11.30am and 4pm. To avoid unnecessary handling of cash we would like to request donations to the Village Hall funds.
Children very welcome, but must be supervised by an adult at all times.
Stay safe: take care on the beach, watch your step and come prepared for the weather. Help prevent the spread of Covid-19. Follow Scottish Government advice and keep a safe distance from anyone who is not in your household.
We would ask that visitors use the designated parking area behind the Village Hall. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Only assistance dogs are allowed in the Hall. The village public toilets are open.
Buses from Arbroath bus station leave at 12:15 14:30 16:47 17:55. Buses from Auchmithie leave at 12:33 14:47 17:02 18:13.
For any enquires regarding the Hall and Tearoom please contact Violet via the HAAR facebook page
For any enquires about the Beach Pebble Event please contact secretary@scottishgeologytrust.org.
This event is part of a series of Beach Pebble events around Scotland during the Scottish Geology Festival – find out here.
Accessibility for the Beach Pebble events:
Accessibility for the Village Hall events:
An event in the Scottish Geology Festival, organised by the Scottish Geology Trust.
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