Dunino Den

What you'll find

From the old graveyard behind the church, a path drops into the trees and reaches a rocky outcrop above a burn. On top is a round rock-cut basin, often called a well, with a footprint-shaped hollow beside it, a feature some writers link to old inauguration rites. A steep flight of steps cut into the rock face, worn smooth by centuries of feet, leads down to the stream, where a cross and other faint carvings mark the cliff. Accounts of the site's age vary and some carvings are clearly modern, so take the more lurid stories with a pinch of salt.

Visiting today

There are no tickets, staff or facilities. Visitors park in the small area by the church on the B9131 and walk in through the churchyard; the den itself is only a few minutes from the car. Many people leave ribbons, coins and small tokens on the branches and in rock crevices, carrying on the old clootie-well custom. If you add something, keep it biodegradable and leave everything else as you found it.

Making a trip of it

The den suits a quiet hour on a dry day, and pairs well with a drive along the East Neuk coast or lunch back in St Andrews. It's short enough for families with older children, but the steps are narrow with a long drop beside them, so keep a close eye on little ones. Kinkell Byre and the hotels on the southern edge of St Andrews are a short drive away.

Highlights

• Rock-cut basin and footprint-shaped hollow on the upper crag
• Steep carved steps down to the burn
• Weathered cross carving on the gorge wall
• Trees hung with ribbons and offerings
• Free to visit, no tickets

Good to know

• Park in the small area by Dunino Parish Church on the B9131 and walk through the graveyard.
• Paths can be muddy and the rock steps are slippery, so wear boots with good grip.
• There are no toilets or visitor facilities.
• Only leave biodegradable offerings.

Frequently asked questions