East Lothian From Above: A Birds-Eye View of Edinburgh's Coast and Countryside
You may have explored our beaches, walked our hills, discovered our historic castles or teed off on our famous golf courses, but have you ever seen them from above?
These aerial views showcase East Lothian from a completely different angle. From rugged coastline and rolling countryside to historic landmarks, golf courses and picturesque harbours, each image captures the beauty, character and variety that make Edinburgh's Coast and Countryside such a memorable place to visit.
Join us as we take a bird's-eye tour of some of East Lothian's most spectacular sights.
Tantallon Castle
Perched high on the cliffs overlooking the Firth of Forth, Tantallon Castle is every bit as impressive from the air as it is from the ground. Its striking position on the edge of the coastline helps explain why this mighty fortress has stood watch over the sea for centuries.
Visitors can explore the historic ruins, discover its fascinating past and enjoy views across the Firth of Forth towards the Bass Rock.
Bass Rock
One of Scotland's most recognisable landmarks, the Bass Rock rises from the waters of the Firth of Forth just off the coast of North Berwick.
Its brilliant white appearance is no trick of the light. This remarkable island is home to the world’s largest colony of northern gannets, with tens of thousands of birds gathering here during the breeding season. The aerial view reveals both the scale of the rock and its significance as one of Scotland's most important seabird breeding sites.
Whether admired from the shore, experienced on a boat trip or viewed through the live cameras at the Scottish Seabird Centre, it is a sight that never fails to impress.
North Berwick Harbour
From above, North Berwick Harbour's curved stone walls, colourful boats and stunning setting create a picture-perfect scene. The harbour has been at the heart of the town for centuries and remains a popular spot for enjoying fresh seafood, watching boats come and go, and taking in views across the Firth of Forth
Dirleton Castle
At the heart of one of East Lothian's most charming villages sits Dirleton Castle, a magnificent medieval fortress surrounded by some of Scotland's most beautiful gardens.
With a history stretching back more than 800 years, the castle has survived wars, sieges and changing fortunes. Visitors can wander through its atmospheric ruins, admire the colourful gardens and experience a peaceful corner of East Lothian where history and nature come together.
Yellowcraig
With its golden sands and rolling dunes, Yellowcraig is one of East Lothian's most spectacular beaches. From above, the sweeping shoreline and surrounding woodland showcase the natural beauty that makes this a favourite spot for visitors throughout the year.
Looking out across the water, you'll spot Fidra, believed to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island. Its distinctive lighthouse has become an iconic feature of the East Lothian coast. Back on shore, Yellowcraig is ideal for family days out, coastal walks and wildlife watching.
Belhaven Bay
The sweeping sands and winding tidal channels of Belhaven Bay create an ever-changing landscape that is particularly impressive when seen from above. Look closely and you'll spot the famous Belhaven Bridge, often known as the Bridge to Nowhere, which appears to float above the water at high tide and has become one of East Lothian's most photographed landmarks.
Popular with walkers, surfers and nature lovers, Belhaven Bay offers space, tranquillity and spectacular coastal scenery throughout the year.
Musselburgh Links Golf Club
Recognised as the oldest golf course in the world still being played on its original site, Musselburgh Links occupies a unique place in golfing history. Unusually, the historic nine-hole course sits within the grounds of Musselburgh Racecourse, creating one of the most distinctive golfing settings in Scotland.
The course has welcomed some of the sport's greatest names and is famously associated with Mary, Queen of Scots, who is said to have played here during the sixteenth century. Visitors can even hire traditional hickory clubs and experience the game as it was played generations ago, adding another layer to a truly authentic golfing experience.
Gullane Golf Club
Set above Gullane Bay, Gullane Golf Club enjoys views across the Firth of Forth. The aerial image highlights the rolling fairways and natural dune landscape that have shaped golf in Gullane for generations.
With three links courses and a history dating back more than 140 years, Gullane has long been part of East Lothian's golfing heritage.
North Berwick Golf Club
Few golf courses can rival the setting of North Berwick Golf Club. Located beside the renowned Marine North Berwick hotel and overlooking the West Bay, the course enjoys spectacular coastal views throughout its historic layout.
Home to famous holes such as the Redan, the club has been challenging golfers since 1832 and remains one of Scotland's most celebrated golfing destinations.
Castle Park Golf Club
Moving inland, Castle Park Golf Club showcases another side of East Lothian's golfing offer. Surrounded by rolling countryside and mature woodland, the course provides a peaceful setting and an enjoyable challenge for golfers of all abilities.
Fenton Tower
Hidden amongst the East Lothian countryside, Fenton Tower stands as one of Scotland's finest restored tower houses. This magnificent sixteenth-century building is available as an exclusive-use venue, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy luxury accommodation within a truly historic setting. Surrounded by peaceful countryside and just a short distance from the coast, it provides an unforgettable retreat for special celebrations, family gatherings and private escapes.
Dunbar Harbour
Steeped in maritime heritage, Dunbar Harbour remains one of East Lothian's most charming coastal locations. The aerial view showcases the colourful fishing boats, historic harbour walls and picturesque waterfront.
Nearby lie the ruins of Dunbar Castle, once a powerful fortress overlooking the sea. Together they tell the story of a town shaped by centuries of seafaring, trade and conflict.
The Lammermuirs
Stretching across the south of East Lothian, the Lammermuir Hills offer a landscape of rolling moorland, quiet roads and far-reaching views. The aerial view highlights the scale of this often-overlooked corner of the county, popular with walkers, cyclists and nature lovers.
Prestongrange Museum
Viewed from above, Prestongrange Museum showcases the scale of East Lothian's industrial heritage. Once a thriving centre for mining, brickmaking and engineering, the site is home to Scotland's only in-situ Cornish beam engine and a range of fascinating industrial relics that tell the story of the area's working past.
Traprain Law
Visible for miles around, Traprain Law rises prominently above the surrounding countryside and has been an important landmark for thousands of years. Once the site of an Iron Age hillfort and believed to have been a significant settlement of the Votadini tribe, it continues to attract visitors drawn by its fascinating history and rewarding walk to the summit.
Binning wood
Autumn is perhaps the best time to visit Binning Wood. As the leaves turn shades of gold, amber and copper, the woodland comes alive with seasonal colour. Peaceful trails weave through the trees, making it an ideal spot for an autumn walk.
Aberlady Nature Reserve
Aberlady Bay's network of saltmarshes, dunes and mudflats highlights why it is one of Scotland's most important wildlife habitats. The reserve is a haven for birds and wildlife throughout the year and offers some of East Lothian's most peaceful coastal walks, with ever-changing views across the bay and beyond.
Coasteering
East Lothian's rugged shoreline is dotted with rocky outcrops, hidden coves and natural sea arches, creating the perfect setting for adventure. Coasteering offers a thrilling way to explore these coastal landscapes up close, combining climbing, scrambling, swimming and jumping.
National Museum of Flight
Seen from above, the National Museum of Flight offers a different perspective on this former airfield and its aviation heritage. The aerial view highlights some of the aircraft on display, set against the open landscape that once formed part of an active airfield.
Today, visitors can explore a remarkable collection of aircraft, exhibitions and interactive displays, including Scotland's Concorde.
Garleton Monument
Standing proudly atop Garleton Hill, this distinctive landmark has watched over East Lothian since the nineteenth century. A popular destination for walkers, the monument offers far-reaching views across East Lothian, from the coastline to the Lammermuir Hills, with the Cairngorms visible on particularly clear days.
Amisfield Walled Garden
Seen from above, the distinctive layout of Amisfield Walled Garden stands out against the surrounding countryside. Once part of the historic Amisfield Estate, the restored walled garden combines formal planting, orchards and growing spaces within its striking geometric design.
Today, the garden is cared for by a dedicated community of volunteers and offers visitors a peaceful place to explore throughout the seasons.
From ancient landmarks and historic attractions to hidden corners of the countryside, these aerial views offer a fresh way to see East Lothian.
Now you've seen it from above, why not experience it for yourself?
Start planning your visit to East Lothian now!
Author: Jackie Gardiner
Visit East Lothian
