Visit East Lothian > Unique Experiences in East Lothian

Unique Experiences in East Lothian

March 8, 2024

East Lothian has so many unique and unforgettable experiences for every taste. Get inspired and start planning your only-in-East Lothian adventure and create lasting memories. Here are just a few we think you’ll love.

Take a Wildlife Boat Trip

Get up close to wildlife on a boat trip to see the islands around the coastline and the Bass Rock, home to the world’s largest northern colony of gannets and one of the natural wonders of the world. Discover stunning marine life and seabirds and you might even spot dolphins!

Relive History

Step back in time and soak up rich history and heritage. Start at Tantallon Castle, a formidable fortress perched on a cliff with spectacular views across the Firth of Forth. Wander through its well-preserved ruins and imagine tales of medieval knights and sieges. For a glimpse into the past, visit Dirleton Castle and Gardens, one of Scotland’s oldest surviving strongholds and stroll through the beautiful, manicured gardens. Plan your trip to coincide with an event to find out about the lives of those who lived in our castles.

Walk or Cycle a Long-Distance Walk

Take in breath-taking views as you walk or cycle along the John Muir Way and immerse yourself in a landscape that inspired John Muir, the famous explorer, naturalist and conservationist. This coast-to-coast route stretches from Helensburgh to Dunbar with so much to see and do along the way.

Have a Dram!

Take a journey through Glenkinchie Distillery’s storied landscape and rich heritage, learn how they create their rare Lowland style whisky and enjoy a tasting session to experience the flavours unique to East Lothian. If gin or rum is more your tipple, a visit to NB Distillery is a must for a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting of world class award winning spirits.

Enjoy a Wellness Retreat

Explore the benefits of forest bathing or mindful loch swimming at Carfrae Farm or indulge in a spot of pampering at Fletchers Cottage, Whitekirk Hill or Garleton Lodge. East Lothian is the ideal location to take time to find balance, to rest, to recharge and indulge in a bit of mindfulness.

Make a Splash

Take to the water and try your hand at some outdoor active fun. From coasteering, SUP, kayaking, surfing, wakeboarding or sailing, East Lothian is a playground for watersports enthusiasts as well as those looking for a more leisurely day on the water.

*Fletchers Cottage Spa ©Epic Scotland Photography*

Take to the Skies in a Microlight

Experience flying like never before as you soar through the air in a microlight aircraft, feel the wind on your face as your soak up the epic views.

Tee Off on Scotland’s Golf Coast

Put your golfing skills to the test and play a round of golf on some of Scotland’s finest courses. With twenty-one links and parkland courses to choose from, including Musselburgh Links the oldest playing golf course in the world, East Lothian - Scotland’s Golf Coast really is a golfers paradise.