Adventure into East Lothian this Autumn
As the days gradually shorten and the landscapes change with the season, there is plenty to draw you out to enjoy Autumnal colours and simple pleasures with an adventure into East Lothian.
Visit East Lothian’s latest Mini Adventures film takes in wildlife watching, riverside walks and forest trails, inspirational, locally foraged food and drink, and no-fuss family fun.
Award-winning wildlife photographer Zan Threlfall showcases the wild heart of East Lothian, through the lens at Aberlady Bay Nature Reserve where in Autumn you can spot some of the 30,000 pink footed geese which migrate here from Iceland. The area within the Reserve is extensive with beautiful walks beginning with crossing the 'footbridge to enchantment' made famous by Scottish Author Nigel Tranter in his autobiographical country notebook of the same name.
Opportunities for family fun abound in Autumn in East Lothian, not least at the pumpkin patches. Balgone Estate boasts Scotland’s largest pumpkin patch with over 50,000 pumpkins to pick, there are free pumpkins with entry tickets to East Links Family Park and, at Kilduff Pumpkin Patch, you’ll find pumpkin picking, a bale maze, games and food trucks. Enjoy the farm’s own produce from their Wee Red Barn. As Halloween excitement builds, dare to discover the spooky trail at Newhailes House and Gardens.
Peace and tranquillity await under canopies of red, orange and gold as the many stunning woodlands around the county take their seasonal turn. Mr Smith Aerial captures the best of the seasonal scenes from the air, including at Gosford House and Binning Wood. Whether in the woods, on the hills or along a riverbank, you’ll find walks and bike rides suitable for all abilities and moods. Becca, owner of Orange Moon Record store at North Berwick’s Steampunk Coffee, enjoys a walk along the Tyne in Haddington with her dog Juno. Look out for the kingfisher!
If you prefer your adventures on two-wheels, take a cycle around the county's hidden gems and coastal landmarks; Ezee Riders offer independent e-bike hire or a guided tour.
It's on wanders around the county’s many beauty spots and tucked away hedgerows and woodlands that wild foragers Rupert and Tom from Buck & Birch source their ingredients. Alchemy happens at their Macmerry tasting room and base where they create delicious, intriguing beverages and bites, including their flagship BIRCH, a wild botanical spirit made from birch tree sap tapped from trees at Gifford Community Woodland.
There’s much more to explore in East Lothian in Autumn…
- Enjoy the wide-open spaces of the county’s 40 miles of sandy beaches.
- Dramatic castles and stately homes invite you to discover more about their rich heritage.
- You’ll find a warm welcome and delicious food and drink in the wide choice of eateries.
- Make it an overnight trip – a huge range of quality accommodation is on offer from hotels to B&Bs to quirky stays.
Watch our video for inspiration. Please enjoy East Lothian responsibly.
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Author: Jackie Gardiner
Visit East Lothian
