If you're looking for a dog-friendly holiday or a fun day out for you and your pooch, there are so many paw-esome dog friendly things to see and do in East Lothian. Find out what Edinburgh Spaniels, Hollie, Hugo and Spencer, did when they visited on a jam-packed weekend exploring East Lothian.
Day 1
Stopped off at Parkers Cafe in Dunbar for delicious cake and coffee and some 'help yourself' dog treats.Â
Took a long wander through John Muir Country Park, the park is dedicated to naturalist, explorer and conservationist, John Muir. Know before go and download the free Visit East Lothian App to check how busy parking is - available from Apple Store and Google Play.
Checked into the Dunmuir Hotel in Dunbar located 5 minutes from the beach and a short walk into town.
Walked around Dunbar to see the picturesque harbour and the ruins of Dunbar castle, which was one of the strongest fortresses in Scotland.
Had dinner in the hotel's award winning 1902 Grill Restaurant that offers a menu that changes to reflect the seasons, with an emphasis on fresh local and Scottish produce.
Day 2
Enjoyed a gorgeous sunrise run along the John Muir Way. Dunbar is the start or end of the route, a coast to coast national long-distance walking route and great for cycling too which stretches 134 miles to Helensburgh in the west.
Tucked into a delicious breakfast in the hotel (fresh sausages for the boys!)
Visited Smeaton Dogwood, a secure and private hire woodland walk where you can exercise your dog off-lead in a safe and stimulating environment, perfect for anxious and/or reactive dogs.
Wandered through Smeaton Nursery Garden and the Greenhouse Gallery! Had a spot of lunch in the Smeaton tearoom.
Hiked up to the top of Traprain Law to see the wild ponies. Remember to keep dogs on a lead as there are wild ponies grazing and please refrain from feeding the ponies.
Walked to the Brig and Barrel for a perfect dinner. Situated just round the corner from Belhaven Brewery, the oldest working brewery in Scotland. If you fancy sitting outside, they have an outdoor beer garden with covered booths and heaters.
Day 3
Headed to Tantallon Castle for the very cool experience of walking through a castle perched on a cliff with incredible views.
Explored North Berwick's gorgeous beaches and High Street where you can find some wonderful boutique shops to pick up a gift or take home a souvenir.
Popped into the The Ship Inn for lunch and met other four legged friends.
Went to Unleashed Dog Park just outside the village of Pencaitland for an incredible session exploring their spacious private hire fields with sensory garden and activities. The views from the park over to the Lammermuir hills are outstanding!
Watch the video from their visit below
Find out more about what there is to see and do in East Lothian.
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. Â
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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East Lothian is home to some amazing idyllic secret hideaways and rural retreats that offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Choose from cosy cottages, modern glamping pods to self catering eco-lodges and even a bus! Here are just some for those looking for tranquility and to take in East Lothian's natural beauty.
Secret Cabin
A secluded hidden cabin for two! The Secret Cabin is nestled in lush woodland, only five minutes from Seacliff beach and a short journey to the popular town of North Berwick. Enjoy beach walks, sea swims and then in the evening, chill and relax beside a roaring fire.
Eco Indigo
Experience glamping on another level at Eco Indigo! Enjoy spectacular coastal views from an eco glamping pod or stay in their historic dog friendly 'Keepers Cottage'. Relax outside by the chiminea with a glass of wine in your hand as you watch the sun set.
The Treehouse
The Treehouse is perfect for a romantic getaway set in its own private location on Dunglass Estate. After a busy day exploring, relax and enjoy panoramic views from the outdoor hot tub under a canopy of twinkling stars.
The Bus Stop
For a holiday experience with a difference! The Bus Stop offers a choice of luxury and rustic converted buses located on an arable working farm. Each bus is set in spacious private grassed areas with uninterrupted views of the Lammermuir Hills. Enjoy campfires, starry nights and woodfired hot-tubs!
Carfrae Farm
Tucked away at the foot of the Lammermuir Hills, Carfrae Farm luxury cottages are the perfect place to take in and explore beautiful surroundings. They offer a range of outdoor activities such as mindful loch swimming, foraging and paddleboard yoga. At the end of the day, take a dip in the hot tub or cosy up to a wood burning stove. They have their own Farm Shop, so you can pick up some local produce to cook and enjoy.
Rosehip Hideaway
Rosehip Hideaway cabins are ideally located on the railway walk and cycle route 196 to Glenkinchie Distillery and Carberry in Musselburgh. These cosy cabins are designed with their own individual theme, all with covered outdoor seating area, BBQ/fire pit.
Bell's Bothy Bunkhouse
Bell's Bothy Bunkhouse is a youth hostel style bolthole just outside the market town of Haddington and is perfect for walkers and cyclists. It boasts a log burning stove and can sleep up to six.
Whitekirk Hill
Enjoy a regenerative stay, deep in nature at Whitekirk Hill in one of their contemporary and stylish eco-friendly lodges, perfect for couples, families and friends - four legged ones too! On site, there's an award-winning spa, gym, gourmet Orangery and terrace. Kids will love the Play Barn full of fun activities.
For more information about places to stay in East Lothian
Green tourism has become an essential consideration for visitors seeking sustainable and eco-friendly options when planning their holiday. East Lothian, with its stunning landscapes, rich history and charming towns and villages, has many thriving tourism businesses catering for visitors who want to travel responsibly.
The Green Tourism Scheme is a certification programme recognising the commitment of tourism businesses which are actively working to become more sustainable.
In this blog, we highlight some of our East Lothian businesses who have been recognised for their efforts in reducing their impact on the environment and achieved a Green Tourism award.
Gilmerton House (GOLD)
Gilmerton House, this Grade ‘A’ listed Georgian Mansion, home to the Kinloch Family for thirteen generations has been operating as an exclusive use private venue for over 20 years. The property is heated by a Biomass boiler system, burning recycled wood and cardboard from the estate and wood from local residents. Thousands of trees have been planted throughout the estate over the years providing a wonderful environment for the local wildlife.
Whitekirk Hill (SILVER)
Whitekirk Hill countryside retreat strongly believe in eco-friendly values, not least their new range of low impact lodges which are installed with air source heat pumps, triple glazing and led lighting throughout to reduce power consumption. They provide free EV charging points and create seasonal menus whilst continuously sourcing food and drink locally wherever possible, thereby reducing food miles.
East Lothian Cottages (GOLD)
The Muckle Snug and The Wee Bothy are two self-catering cottages set in a rural location just outside the market town of Haddington. The owner commits to providing ethical and plastic-free alternatives to bottle shampoos and soaps to visitors, encouraging on-site composting and recycling and offers visitors the use a vehicle charging point.
Glenkinchie Distillery (GOLD)
From the way they make their whisky to the way visitors enjoy the experience, sustainability has always been at the heart of Glenkinchie Distillery. Initiatives include zero-waste to landfill, the distillation process and high standards of water efficiency and stewardship. They have installed beehives, bat boxes, bug houses and plantings to encourage pollination and protect wildlife.
Scottish Seabird Centre (GOLD)
The Scottish Seabird Centre has won multiple awards for their environmental focus - from the energy they use, the products they sell in their shop, to encouraging sustainable travel and raising awareness through the conservation, education and charity work they do. They have undertaken studies to reduce emissions relating to their wildlife boat experiences.
John Muir’s Birthplace (GOLD)
When John Muir's Birthplace opened in 2003, from the start they decided to follow green and sustainable principles. This includes buying materials for their workshops, using Fairtrade tea and coffee and selling locally made and recycled goods in the shop. They continue to work towards better energy efficiency and reducing carbon footprint. Their efforts reflect the values of John Muir and are very fitting in the house where this environmental conservation pioneer was born.
Ezee Riders (BRONZE)
Ezee Riders located just outside of North Berwick are an e-bike tour and rental company. They achieved their award through a commitment to sustainable travel for both customers and within their business, the experiences in the local area and how to enjoy it in a sustainable and responsible manner and by promoting locally and sustainably produced food, contributing to a more sustainable food ecosystem.
East Coast Restaurant (SILVER)
East Coast Restaurant in Musselburgh managed to achieve their silver rating after only been open for 18 months! They decided to change their plastic and polystyrene packaging for compostable, biodegradable and recyclable alternatives. Their frying range recycles heat, saves on oil and any leftover oil is uplifted and turned into biodiesel. They are committed to using as many local food and drink suppliers as possible.
Other businesses who have received this recognised award:-
Eco Friendly Accommodation - Winton Castle (GOLD), Thurston Manor Leisure Park (SILVER), Carberry Tower Mansion & Estate (BRONZE)
Attractions - National Museum of Flight (GOLD), Preston Mill (SILVER), Dirleton Castle (GOLD), Newhailes House & Gardens (SILVER), Seton Collegiate Church (GOLD), Inveresk Lodge Garden – (SILVER), Tantallon Castle (SILVER)
Organic Farm Stays / Beaches – Yellowcraig Caravan Site (SILVER)
Sustainable Food & Dining - Hickory (GOLD)
Tour Operator - E-City Chauffeur (GOLD)
Information correct at the time of publication.
EV traveller Joana Kruse recently visited on a roadtrip in her electric Fiat 500 and here's what she had to say about the sights, charging points and plant-based eating out during her trip to East Lothian.
5 months photo road trip of at least 10,000 miles. Sounds epic? OK.
But 5 months in an electric vehicle? In a small Fiat 500e.
Sounds crazy? You may be right...
But as a passionate electric car driver and as a vegan, I wanted to prove that it's possible without suffering of too much range anxiety. I work as a travel photographer, which usually involves a lot of flying. I'm trying to find out if I can do my job (at least within Europe) in a more sustainable way. More green. With less guilty conscience.
My trip itinerary starts in Italy, where I currently live, to Germany, the Netherlands, Scotland including all the remote isles, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and North Wales. And back to Italy.
If you are interested - here is a small trailer of the trip.
The first month of the journey took me to East Lothian.
I've been to Northumberland before. And to Edinburgh.
But somehow I left East Lothian out.
And now I'm wondering why.
OFF THE BEATEN PATH...
Sustainable travel also means avoiding the typical hotspots that are overcrowded and each additional tourist is a burden for the locals.
And that's what I loved about East Lothian. It's a bit off the beaten path but still beautiful and there are many places to explore (plus easy reachable daytrips to Northumberland or Edinburgh).
No matter where I went - it was never crowded. Never spoiled by mass tourism. Always easy to find parking. No battle for electric vehicle charging stations. OK, I travelled in May and July/August might get a little worse. But it will never be as crowded as other spots, I'm sure.
THE BRIDGE TO NOWHERE...
One interesting spot was the Belhaven Bridge, also known as 'The Bridge to Nowhere' and at high tide you'll understand why. It's a nice place to enjoy a walk on the sandbanks of the North Sea with a beautiful view.
CHARGING, EATING, ENJOYING...
Near the bridge and beach is the town of Dunbar.
The picturesque old fishing harbour, the ruined castle and the esplanade with views of sea stacks and rocks are all worth a visit.
The charging stations in the middle of Dunbar are very convenient.
I charged my electric vehicle and meanwhile ate a delicious vegan wrap from Parker's Dunbar (on the High Street, just 5 steps from the charging station).
It's cool and thoughtful to place charging stations near town centres or tourist attractions rather than (as is often the case) in the middle of nowhere with nothing to do or see.
It's a win-win for both sides - the charging persons will certainly spend some money while waiting to charge their vehicle's e-juice!
MEDIEVAL CHARGING...
Ditto for Dirleton Castle.
It is a medieval fortress, ruined and impressive, with a lovely Victorian garden.
There is a charging station in the parking lot next to the castle so I was able to top up the 500e while I visited the castle and had a cuppa and a vegan lunch (yes they serve haggis but when I asked for a vegan option I had no problems at all) at the pub across the street.
FOR OUTLANDER FANS...
For all Outlander fans, a visit to Preston Mill in the village of East Linton is a must!
It doubles as Lallybroch's Mill in the first season of Outlander.
Remember the scene when Jamie had to hide underwater when the Redcoats arrived?
Without Redcoats however a really peaceful place with picnic tables to enjoy a packed lunch.
You can then easily charge your electric vehicle in the village itself (Station Road).
SANDY BEACH WITH VIEW...
A true highlight of my visit in East Lothian was Seacliff harbour with amazing views of Tantallon Castle and Bass Rock.Â
To get there you drive and park for a small fee (3 pounds, make sure you have the coins ready, no cards and no change accepted) on a private road.
Not many tourists know about this beautiful sandy beach.
When we arrived in the late afternoon, we almost had the beach to ourselves.
A short walk to the rocky harbour (inaccessible at high tide + and - one hour but safe the rest of the time) and you have fantastic views of the castle and Bass Rock.
Having lived in the South West of England for a long time, I know that a place like this would be crowded with photographers and other sunset admirers every evening. Here we were on our own. It's so nice to be able to enjoy the beauty of nature and history in peace...
RANGE ANXIETY...
I truly enjoyed my stay in East Lothian.
It was still authentic, not overcrowded and you could travel as sustainably as possible.Â
As a vegan, I was able to shop for groceries in the supermarkets that are well stocked with plant-based food. And almost every pub or cafe offered vegan options.
Range anxiety never got the better of me.
EV charging stations were well placed, often near tourist attractions or town centres.
And although not too many fast chargers are installed, I really liked the "slow charging" in parking lots when visiting attractions.
However, please always be respectful of other electric vehicle drivers when charging and remove your car from the charging station as soon as it is fully charged. Don't use the charging stations as a convenient parking space, as your fellow EV driver may be in dire need of some kW...
To find charging stations in the UK I mainly use Zap-Map, an app that makes it easy to find your nearest charging stations.
If you are interested how my 5 month trip with the 500e continues (or started), you can follow my travels here:Â https://findpenguins.com/ev-phototours/trip/ev-photo-tour-2023
Joana is a vegan EV driver and a travel photographer for many years.
With German roots, she lived for a long time in the UK and is now for a few years based in Italy.
Her photos won several awards and are published worldwide.Â
Plan your next adventure to conquer some of the best cycle routes in East Lothian.
The excitement is building as Scotland gears up to welcome the UCI Cycling World Championships, the biggest cycling event ever to be staged in Glasgow and across Scotland from 3rd-13th August.
If you’re a keen cycling enthusiast seeking an adventurous experience, you might like to know that East Lothian offers an array of thrilling cycle routes. Discover diverse landscapes, tranquil countryside, panoramic views and secluded paths as you embark on an unforgettable cycling adventure. Here are just some of East Lothian’s routes to whet your appetite.
This route starts and finishes at Musselburgh Fisherrow Harbour and offers a multiday gravel adventure that combines the remoteness and solitude of the Lammermuir Hills with the stunning East Lothian coastline. Over a distance of 169km (105m), enjoy the refreshing sea breeze as you pedal past golden beaches, grassy dunes and beautiful countryside with lots of places to stop and explore.
Find out more about this route.
A longer gravel adventure over 53.5km (33.24m), connecting the popular seaside town of North Berwick with Haddington, combining some of the best gravel tracks East Lothian has to offer. The route starts at the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick joining onto the John Muir Way and then follows the River Tyne through Haddington connecting with the Longniddry Railway walk, through the pretty village of Aberlady then back to North Berwick.
Find out more about this route.
A distance of 105km (65.24m) and just a few kilometres short of the official Gran Fondo distance, this route starts and finishes in Prestonpans and offers a road bike adventure exploring many of the stunning castles and big houses along some of the most beautiful roads in East Lothian.
Find out more about this route.
Cycling can build up quite an appetite, and East Lothian offers an array of fantastic food stops to refuel and recharge. For the perfect energy boost before hitting the road, stop at Steampunk Coffee in North Berwick and enjoy their range of speciality coffees, teas and delicious baked goodies. If you’re planning to venture into the Lammermuirs, stop off in the village of Gifford and visit Lanterne Rouge named after the award given to the last place cyclist in the Tour De France. The Loft Café & Bakery in Haddington is popular with cyclists, you can sit outside in the courtyard with your bike or you can use their click and collect service.Â
Taking your bike on public transport to East Lothian couldn’t be easier, the towns of Musselburgh, Prestonpans, North Berwick and Dunbar are all served by trains from Edinburgh and bikes are free! Borders Buses operate a number of bike friendly buses and you can track which bus is bike friendly the day before your visit using their app.
Before setting off on a bike ride, know the code before you go - Scottish Outdoor Access Code and please respect the beautiful countryside and love East Lothian responsibly.
East Lothian does have cycling routes for all abilities especially if you’re a bit of a notice or want to go out on a leisurely cycle with the family. Find out more.
Images: Markus Stitz & Tom Duffin
Information correct at the time of publication.
The return of the Genesis Scottish Open to The Renaissance Club in East Lothian is just around the corner! As the excitement builds in anticipation of world-class golf, we are taking some time to explore the 19th hole and all the charms you can discover beyond the greens. East Lothian has a rich history, pristine beaches, breath-taking nature and wildlife, charming towns and villages, tantalizing food and drink, and a wide array of outdoor adventures. Let us be your guide as we uncover the hidden gems and unforgettable experiences that make East Lothian a must for both golf enthusiasts and explorers seeking a warm and authentic Scottish destination.
The 19th hole:  East Lothian's culinary scene is a feast for the senses. Sample the region's finest produce and indulge in exquisite dining experiences from family friendly restaurants or welcoming pubs, bars & cafes. Dine at The Bonnie Badger in Gullane, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving creative dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients.  For a taste of the sea, visit The Lobster Shack in North Berwick, known for its’ freshly caught seafood and stunning coastal views.
Many of our golf courses offer their own clubhouse or bar where golfers can gather after their round such as Craigielaw Golf Club and Winterfield Golf Club whilst enjoying amazing views out across the course. Other places to dine nearby our golf courses are The Old Clubhouse, Gullane, The Dunmuir, Dunbar, The Golf Tavern, Haddington or Duck’s Inn, Aberlady, a 2 AA Rosette dining experience where after a bite to eat you can try your hand at the bar stool challenge!
Stay and Play: East Lothian is rightly famous as Scotland’s Golf Coast offering 21 golf courses from 18 golf clubs along 30 miles of stunning coastline between Musselburgh to the west and Dunbar to the east to suit golfers of all abilities. While you are attending the Genesis Scottish Open take the chance to book a round or two on some of the world’s top courses. There is a wealth of accommodation in East Lothian catering for golfers – you can even book Stay and Play packages.
Culture and Heritage: Embark on a journey through time as you explore East Lothian's historical landmarks and magnificent castles. Visit the awe-inspiring Tantallon Castle or the majestic Dirleton Castle, both steeped in history and with enchanting gardens or grounds. Immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings at Preston Mill which had a starring role in the TV series Outlander.
Serene Beaches: East Lothian boasts a coastline of stunning beaches. Head to picturesque spots like Gullane Bents, Yellowcraig Beach or Belhaven Bay where golden sands and pristine waters invite you to unwind, build sandcastles and take refreshing dips in the sea.
Cycling and Walking: East Lothian offers a wealth of opportunities for both cycling enthusiasts and avid walkers. Take time to relax and enjoy the region's natural beauty and embark on unforgettable journeys as you follow a range of trails through rolling landscapes. Pedal or walk along the John Muir Way where you can soak in panoramic coastal views and explore historic landmarks along the route or follow routes further inland to the Lammermuir Hills.
Outdoor Experiences: Our stunning coastline is a playground for watersports enthusiasts. Foxlake Adventures is the perfect place for outdoor fun! Strap on a wakeboard and glide across the water, test your balance and agility high above the ground on the Foxfalls rope course or take on the challenge with the new addition to the park, the giant floating Aqua Park. Coast 2 Coast invites you to catch some waves and experience the exhilaration of surfing whether you’re a beginning or experienced surfer. Climb, jump, swim and explore the rugged East Lothian coastline with Ocean Vertical. Or try your hand at open water swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding or a spot of flying fishing at Whiteadder Sports Centre.
Nature and Wildlife: Set out on a wildlife adventure at the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick, where you can take a guided boat trip around the islands of the Forth including the Bass Rock, the world’s largest Northern gannet colony. Discover Aberlady Bay Nature Reserve, a haven for birdwatchers, where you can witness migratory birds in their natural habitat. Or take leisurely walks in John Muir Country Park and revel in the tranquility of woodlands, dunes, and grasslands.
Charming Towns and Villages: East Lothian is dotted with charming towns and villages, each with its unique character and attractions. Explore the historic town of Dunbar, birthplace of famous conservationist John Muir. Enjoy the traditional seaside town of North Berwick, where you can browse boutique shops, visit art galleries, and savour delicious seafood at the harbour.
Distillery Tours: No visit to East Lothian would be complete without experiencing its renowned distilleries. Explore Glenkinchie Distillery, the lowland home of Johnnie Walker, and take a guided tour to learn about the whisky-making process and sample their exceptional Scotch whisky. Additionally, a visit to NB Distillery offers a chance to discover the craft behind their artisan gins and enjoy a tasting of their handcrafted spirits.
East Lothian promises a truly memorable experience. So, venture beyond the golf course and create lasting memories beyond the greens! For more information go to visiteastlothian.org.
Before you visit, download the free Visit East Lothian App where you can get up to date information on parking at East Lothian Council coastal car parks and much more to make the most of your visit to East Lothian. Download the App at the App Store or Google Play.
Information correct at time of publication!
Spring awakenings and new beginnings are centre stage in Visit East Lothian’s latest Mini Adventures film. Make the most of longer days and beautiful surroundings, and be guided by our local heroes who’ve the knowhow to help you make the most of your East Lothian experience.Â
Anna from WanderWomen hosts outstanding outdoor experiences around East Lothian for women with a mix of mindfulness and adventure. Here her adventures included hammocking and sea swimming around Yellowcraig Beach, a natural cove with spectacular views over to the 1885 lighthouse on Fidra Island which is said to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson's book Treasure Island. It's very popular with families, with an adventure playpark, a great network of nature trails and a BBQ site.
Let the creative juices flow at Paintbox, a small, independent Art School based in Cockenzie House and Gardens, which is located the coastal village of Cockenzie. Beginning in 2013, Paintbox have built up a centre of teaching excellence in Fine Art priding themselves on providing highly individual and innovative art courses designed to nurture and support artistic ability, while encouraging students to push and develop their skills to a level they didn’t know they were capable of. Cockenzie House and Gardens is a hidden gem, a Jacobean house built in 1675 by the Seton family and surrounded by gardens. Don’t be put off by the clinker walls, come inside and you will find welcoming gardens, unique garden follies, a café, a plant nursery and the Heritage Chamber – the heart of Cockenzie and Port Seton’s rich and varied heritage.
DRIFT is unique coffeehouse with breath-taking views over unspoilt miles of Firth of Forth coast and the Bass Rock. Everything from cake, brunch and lunch is freshly made using where possible Scottish produce. As a farm diversification business born out of a passion for food and drink Drift loves to strengthen the connections between land, sea and the table. Sally of Kinship Studio runs a regular Yoga Brunch here on the last Sunday of every month.
The Yarrow Cookery School is set in the heart of East Lothian - owners Richard and Sophia offer culinary experiences, courses and classes using local Scottish produce. Throughout the year you can book adult and student classes, as well as corporate team building experiences.
Sam and the team at Coast to Coast have grown a reputation across Scotland for high quality surf and adventure sports teaching, with a team of experienced instructors offering a wide range of quality lessons and courses in the sports of Surfing, Bodyboarding, Stand Up Paddling and Coasteering. Here they make the most of Belhaven Bay glorious extensive beach within John Muir Country Park. It is fringed by low sheltering sand dunes, rich salt marsh and colourful grasslands.
Find out about these local gems, try something new and make the most of your East Lothian visit at www.visiteastlothian.org
East Lothian is a great place for cyclists. Long-distance riders can find extended routes with sea views, gentle hills and great cafés. Moira Dunworth and three friends – Heidi, Liz and Grace – take a more leisurely approach to a day cycling adventure on two wheels.
The outing was prompted by Moira’s project to cycle over 30 Scottish bridges in 2023, part of a Mamie Martin Fund fundraiser to celebrate being 30 years old as a small charity supporting girls’ education in Malawi. Four of Moira’s 30 bridges were in East Lothian, where she lived for ten years, and three she did with her friends in a single outing. The fourth, the Electric Bridge in Musselburgh was tackled separately and, despite not being as elegant and handsome as the others, it was a very useful bridge, built in the 1960s to carry the construction traffic for the Cockenzie Power Station and now a dedicated cyclists’ bridge.
With their bikes, the group took the train from Edinburgh Waverley to Longniddry. The new trains on that route take more bikes and that flexible space was very handy when they were joined by a man with a surfboard on his bike. The Scotrail staff were super helpful to them all.
At Longniddry, Liz and Grace carried their bikes over the footbridge while Moira and Heidi cycled around by the underpass. Then they enjoyed the old railway path to Haddington - a magical path to ride or walk. The birdsong is amazing and you’ll often see deer. By the time they got to Haddington it was coffee time. Coffee stops are an essential part of any day out. With bikes, their favourite place in Haddington is The Loft – plenty of space for bikes and outdoor seating for the faffing around that is a vital part of group cycling days.
After cycling over the Nungate Bridge, the group headed off to East Linton and the Old Tyne Bridge. While being smaller than Nungate it is visually stunning. The ride from Haddington to East Linton is on small country roads and deer, hares and a wide variety of birds added to the pleasure of the empty roads.
The ride onwards to Dunbar is not so quiet but is safe because the pavement is a shared pedestrian and cycle path. Just before Dunbar, the group took a left into Belhaven Bay. Happily, the tide was perfect to show off The Bridge to Nowhere. This bridge is not designed for cycling, Moira’s grandson needed to check she doing what she promised and so Moira carefully cycled over and back, holding on to the sides to avoid slipping off.
By now, with all the fun of bridges and photos, the group was cold and hungry. The perfect lunch spot was the café at the Leisure Pool. In this family-friendly space, they got warm food and drinks and the chance to warm up themselves. No seals were to be seen in the harbour that day but it is always worth checking.
They headed home along the same route, 36 miles in total. On the train at Longniddry, they were delighted to find their surfing friend and his bike. He had been surfing in Belhaven Bay, having taken the train to North Berwick and cycled down. Very impressive!
Mini adventures in East Lothian can lead you inland as well as to the county’s beautiful coastline, and they can suit all tastes - whether you’re after a gentle adventure or something more challenging. Â
Visit East Lothian’s Mini Adventures film offers inspiration - taking in rugged scenery and dramatic landscapes, the exploration of which is rewarded with warming moments in local hotspots. Â
Ocean Vertical is a passionate team of adventurers. Stevie Boyle, Adrian Boot, Mollie Hughes and Jacob Allen specialise in leading paddleboarding, coasteering, surfing, climbing and mountaineering locally and around Scotland.
We captured Mollie and Adrian heading out from their base near Dunbar to the Lammermuirs, climbing Spartleton from Whiteadder Reservoir on a beautiful February day. The Lammermuirs is a stunning area of high moorland that borders the regions of East Lothian and the Scottish Borders. From steep climbs to gentle strolls, there are loads of diverse walking trails that offer a breathtaking sense of space in beautiful surroundings, and incredible views.
Dunbar-based artist Eilidh Muldoon, the talented illustrator behind a series of special artworks for Visit East Lothian, took a trip with her young daughter to John Muir Country Park, where they strolled along sandy paths and played in the shallow waters at the mouth of the River Tyne, spotting the friendly animals in East Links Family Park and the walking alpaca tours on the way. The John Muir Country Park can be enjoyed by both a family exploring the outdoors and the natural history enthusiast. It supports a wide range of habitats, birds and plants and covers some of the most spectacular East Lothian coastline. The Park is named after John Muir, the explorer, naturalist and conservationist who was born in Dunbar in 1838. He lived here until the age of 11, when the Muir family immigrated to the United States, settling in Wisconsin. BBQ stoves, large children's park, WCs and cold showers are located at Linkfield car park.
From there, the lure of Steampunk’s delicious coffee and homemade bakes was impossible to resist. Steampunk is a speciality coffee roastery focussed on roasting ethically sourced micro batches of single origin beans from around the world. Visit their warehouse building, tucked behind North Berwick's High Street, from where they roast and ship their coffees. During the winter you can sit by their vintage log burner and, on finer days, you can sun yourself on the sheltered cobbled terrace while enjoying a coffee and watching the world go by. Dogs and cyclists are very welcome!
Meanwhile, Stevie and Jacob from Ocean Vertical took to the paddle boards from the hidden gem that is Seacliff Beach. This unspoilt private beach is home to the UK's smallest harbour with spectacular views of the Bass Rock and Tantallon Castle. The beach attracts surfers, dog walkers and picnickers all year round. There is a small fee for car parking controlled by a coin-operated barrier.
Despite clear blue skies, there was frost on the ground and a warming spell in the nearby Spear Sauna at The Mart at East Linton was welcome – followed by an invigorating ice-bucket shower! The wood-fired Spear Sauna horsebox can be booked at [email protected]
Also in need of a cosy fire and warm welcome after their trek on the hills were Adrian and Mollie. Station Yard Micro Pub in Dunbar, run by Haddington-based Winton Brewery, delivered the goods - great beers, snacks and board games by a wood-burning stove – there’s even a guitar on the wall for a spontaneous singalong.
Out and about or ‘coorie’ in, where will your mini adventures around East Lothian take you? Discover more at www.visiteastlothian.org
