Cockenzie, the first established village in the area, has a rich history dating back to its charter as a burgh by James VI in 1591. The harbour was built in the early 17th century and it quickly became a hub for coal exportation and salt extraction, as well as fishing and whaling. Nearly Port Seton, with its origins at Seton Palace, grew into a bustling fishing harbour and service centre for the area's estates, primarily in the export of coal and salt. Today, you can walk between both harbours along a coastal path and buy the freshest catch from one of the many local fishmongers.