This is the flagship day everything else grew from — scheduled exclusively around the massive ‘spring’ or ‘king’ tides that align with the full and new moons. Because these extraordinary tides only happen a few times a month, we get rare access to the deepest, least accessible parts of the East Neuk intertidal that are usually completely underwater. We strap on helmets and follow the falling water out onto parts of the shore rarely seen on foot. Jayson walks you through what’s growing on the newly uncovered rocks and floating in the deep pools: sea spaghetti, sea lettuce, dulse, sugar kelp — how to identify each one, how to cut it so it regrows, and its role in the ecosystem.
Then the fire goes on. The 4-hour experience culminates in an immersive five-course tasting menu prepared over an open flame using the day’s harvest — hands-on foraging becoming a genuine sea-to-fork experience, cooked in front of you and eaten together on the beach.
What’s included
- Ecological insights — the fascinating world of seaweed and its importance to the coastal ecosystem
- Personalised instruction — guidance tailored to your interests and skill level
- The five-course wild tasting menu, cooked over fire and incorporating what we gathered together
- Take-home resources — written and online materials to keep foraging and cooking
- All safety equipment — helmets and PPE provided
The shape of the day
- Arrive — introductions and the safety briefing
- Out into the intertidal — identification, foraging and talking as the tide allows
- A short break
- Around the fire — the cooking begins
- Eat together; share questions, stories and seconds
- Thank-yous and goodbyes
Good to know
- Getting there: transport isn’t included. The exact meeting point is emailed a few days before your workshop, once weather and tides have settled the best shore for the day — always along the East Neuk, within easy reach of St Andrews — see where the workshops roam
- Bring your own kit: wellies or footwear with good grip, and layered clothing suitable for changeable coastal conditions.
- Fitness: a moderate level of fitness and sure-footedness is recommended; if you have mobility limitations or need specific accommodations, get in touch in advance
- No dates showing? On the Rocks dates are added around the tides — get in touch or call +44 747 398 8980 to arrange one
- Cancellation: 7 days’ notice for a refund minus a 10% admin fee; under 7 days is non-refundable. If we have to postpone and no alternative date suits, you get a full refund. Full details in our cancellation policy
Safety first — A.L.L.W.E.T.
Every workshop runs to our A.L.L.W.E.T. framework: an Ally on dry land, the right Location, Lunch and moderation, Weather checked, proper Equipment (helmets and grippy footwear provided), and the Tides read before we step out. Please follow your guide's instructions at all times and tell us about allergies or dietary needs when you book.
Read the full health & safety guidance · Download the A.L.L.W.E.T. guide (PDF)
What people say
“Fresh air, humour, and food. All three very life-affirming.”
Kate · Tripadvisor
“’On the rocks’ is rock n’ roll!”
S Irvine, Crail
Common questions
Do I need any foraging experience for On the Rocks?
None at all. Helmets and safety kit are provided, Jayson guides every step, and the day is built for first-timers and returning foragers alike. A moderate level of fitness and sure-footedness is all you need.
Is On the Rocks suitable for children?
Yes, from age 8. Children aged 8–16 join at the child rate and must be accompanied by a participating adult. Younger children are better suited to the all-ages Seaweed Taster.
What happens if the weather turns?
Safety calls the day: if East Neuk Seaweed deems conditions unsuitable, the workshop is postponed or refunded in full — details in the cancellation policy. Coastal weather changes fast, so dress in layers and expect the plan to flex with it.
What do we actually eat?
Whatever the tide gives: a five-course wild tasting menu built from the day’s harvest — seaweeds, shore plants and local produce — cooked over open fire and eaten together on the beach.
Can you cater for dietary needs and allergies?
Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menus with 7 days’ notice, and shellfish is always avoidable. Every menu is built on wild seaweed, so traces can be present in any dish. Tell us about severe allergies when you book, and we ask again on the day.
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