Bow Fiddle Rock is a natural sea arch off the village of Portknockie, so named because its curved profile resembles the tip of a fiddle bow. Rising from the water just offshore, it is one of the most photographed rock formations on the Moray Firth.
A short clifftop walk from the village leads to viewpoints above the arch, where seabirds wheel and nest on the stacks. At sunrise the arch is a favourite of landscape photographers, and the surrounding coast path links to Cullen and its famous beach.
Location & Getting There
Bow Fiddle Rock sits just off Portknockie on the A98 coast, about 60 miles northwest of Aberdeen and a short hop from Cullen. Park in the village and follow the signed path a few minutes to the clifftop viewpoints. It combines easily with Cullen beach and the wider Moray coast.
What to See & Do
Walk to the clifftop viewpoints for the classic view of the arch, watch seabirds on the offshore stacks, and follow the coast path toward Cullen for more sea views. Photographers come for dawn light behind the arch. It is a short, rewarding stop rather than a full-day site, easily paired with neighbouring villages.
Who It Suits & Best Time
Bow Fiddle Rock suits photographers, walkers and families wanting a quick, scenic coastal stop. Sunrise gives the most dramatic images, while any clear day rewards a walk. Keep back from the unfenced cliff edges, especially with children, and pair it with Cullen for skink and a longer beach walk.
Practical Tips
- Sunrise is the best light for photographing the arch
- Keep clear of unfenced cliff edges
- Park in Portknockie village and walk the short signed path
- Combine with Cullen beach next door
- Bring a zoom lens for the seabirds on the stacks
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Bow Fiddle Rock?
The natural sea arch is shaped like the tip of a fiddle bow, which gives it the name. It stands just offshore from the village of Portknockie on the Moray Firth.
How do you get to Bow Fiddle Rock?
Drive to Portknockie on the Moray coast, park in the village, and follow the short signed path to the clifftop viewpoints, which takes only a few minutes. Access is free and open all year.
