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.
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.
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
Fill your wedding day with unforgettable memories in one of Scotland’s most picturesque regions.
Sink your feet into golden sand, dip your toes in the gently rolling waves, stand at a cliff top or view point – the options on our stunning coast and in our tranquil countryside are endless.
From stately homes and castles to exclusive use properties, marquees on the beach or something more unusual or quirky, East Lothian has a range of beautiful venues to choose from offering a truly magical backdrop for the perfect wedding.
Gosford House hosts a limited number of wedding receptions each year for an exclusive experience. The magnificent two-tier Marble Hall along with its exterior balconies with stunning views provide a jaw-dropping set for a wedding ceremony. The Dining Rom seats up to 100 guests, the adjoining Octagon Room a further 48 guests in equally wonderful surroundings. For bigger celebrations, a marquee can be erected on the rear lawn.
Available exclusively for special weddings and events, the 15,000 sqm Georgian Walled Gardens at Yester Estate make for a glorious backdrop to a wedding, accommodating from 25 to 1,000 plus guests.
Through a second set of gates, the smaller 'White Garden' can be found. A third of the size at 5,000 sqm and brimming in season with only white flowers. This romantic space can be used for a reception, guest 'glamping site' or a more intimate wedding setting.
Set within 140 acres of mixed landscape, including woodland, ponds and grassy meadows. The venue can host up to 150 guests and boasts incredible views across the fields to Tantallon Castle, the Bass Rock and North Berwick Law. Nine luxury lodges sleeping up to 53 people, and an award-winning spa, make this a first-class one-stop wedding shop.
Located in the heart of Musselburgh on the banks of the River Esk. With its 300 guest capacity and beautifully manicured gardens, Eskmills offers a fairy-light wedding vibe and the 19th century former mill has been restored to preserve its original charm and character while incorporating modern amenities for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Located near Haddington, Colstoun House is Scotland's oldest family home. Set in ancient woodland and steeped in history, the venue can accommodate 150 guests for wedding receptions in the Coach House and 100 guests in the historic drawing room. Wedding ceremonies can be held all over the parkland and in the walled garden. The house has 10 uniquely named and decorated bedrooms providing accommodation for up to 20 guests.
Nestled by the woods on a coastal farm, fringed by the John Muir Country Park, this very special place is brimming with bohemian charm. The four tipis with rustic tables and benches can take up to 150 people, fairy lights and fire pits add to the ambience and the local alpacas bring the wow!
A former auction Mart building which one stood in the centre of the historic East Linton, this incredibly striking hexagonal timber building dates back to 1850 and is the last structure of its kind remaining in Scotland. Used as a film location in Outlander, The Mart is truly one-of-a-kind venue that can accommodate up to 100 people seated.
Perched on a stunning clifftop beside the woods, high above the beach, the cabin was built in the 1960s by the 12th Earl of Haddington to remind his beloved wife of her native Canada. The panoramic views over Ravensheugh Beach to the Bass Rock, Isle of May and Firth of Forth are sublime.
Situated on the road down to Dunbar's harbour, the Harbour Chapel is the oldest Wesleyan Chapel in Scotland dating back to 1764. Beautifully restored with a contemporary twist, the magnificent stained-glass windows originate from St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh. This truly unique and atmospheric space can hold up to 80 for a reception and 120 for evening celebrations.
The Seton Garden has been in the Bathgate family for five generations, originally a prosperous market garden, cultivating soft fruits and vegetables until recently establishing itself as an exclusive-use marquee venue. Located next to the stunning Seton Collegiate Church, this walled garden is a veritable black canvas when it comes to staging your big day.
The stunning 15th century Winton Castle is set within a rich, 2,500 acre woodland estate and has two special rooms for weddings; the magnificent Drawing Room overlooking Sir David's Loch and the stately Dining Room which both hold over 100 guests. Outdoor spaces include the beautiful manicured walled garden with its wisteria walkway and terraced estate gardens. There is also accommodation options.
A stunning 17th century Georgian mansion, Gilmerton House only takes on a limited number of weddings a year on an exclusive use basis to ensure the best experience for couples. The house boasts six distinctive reception rooms, ten bedrooms and an expanse of stunning gardens that can be adapted to suit any size of celebration.
An historic 15th century gothic church sits at the heart of the beautifully landscaped Dunglass Estate, providing the perfect backdrop for an intimate ceremony, the other choice being the Stable Yard. Receptions for up to 100 are held in the luxurious Dunglass Pavilion and guest accommodation for 28 people includes the romantic treehouse.
Archerfield offers both the sumptuous stately home glamour of Archerfield House and the cool contemporary vibe of the Waterfront space, with overnight accommodation of up to 134 guests. So whether you're wanting a traditional fairytale, or the ultimate extravaganza with a coastal backdrop, Archerfield promises to be the luxury wedding venue you've been searching for.
Carberry Towner Mansion House and Estate is a luxury, award-winning exclusive-use wedding venue set in 40 acres of stunning estate grounds. Wedding spaces inside the private chapel, which seats up to 150 guests and is connected to the banqueting pavilion via a fragrant pergola walkway. The Champagne Terrace is glorious in the summer.
Information correct at the time of publication!
There's nothing more relaxing than wrapping up warm and escaping outside for a leisurely stroll to explore the winter landscapes. Here are our top picks of winter walks in East Lothian.
Pressmennan Wood
Magical creatures live in this wood - will you be lucky enough to spy a Glingbob or Tootflit?
This 5.5km circular route around Pressmennan Lake, one of only four designated lakes in Scotland, is the perfect place to take curious little people - although it can get muddy and isn't great for buggies.
If you're feeling more adventurous and energetic, the 18km Herring Road circular leads you into the heart of the Lammermuirs along this ancient trading route from the starting point.
Post Walk Pit-Stops: The Pine Marten, Dunbar
Pressmennan Lake Route Information
Butterdean Wood
Under the custodianship of the Woodland Trust, Butterdean Wood on the outskirts of Haddington is slowly being restored to native woodland.
There are more than 5km of paths to explore, with two waymarked trails and several wildlife-themed sculptures to find. Car parking available.
Post Walk Pit-Stops: The Waterside & The Golf Tavern, Haddington
Butterdean Wood Route Information
Hailes Castle
One of Scotland's oldest stone castles, Hailes Castle dates from the 1200s and has links to Mary Queen of Scots. A scenic nature-filled three-mile round trip from the village of East Linton takes you along the River Tyne to this quiet ruin. Note, there are quite a few steps on this walk, so unless you're feeling particularly fit, leave the buggy behind.
Unfortunately, Hailes Castle is closed to the public at the moment but you can still take in the views of this amazing castle as you walk by.
Post Walk Pit-Stops: Crown and Kitchen & The Mart Farm Shop, East Linton
Hailes Castle from East Linton Route Information
Dunbar Clifftop
This dramatic coastal walk forms part of the final section of the 134-mile John Muir Way, which connects Helensburgh on the West coast and Dunbar on the East. The 2.5km trail is mostly tarmacked but does involve steps. Park at Dunbar Leisure Centre.
Post Walk Pit-Stops: The Brig & Barrel, Dunbar
Dunbar Clifftop Trail Information
Levenhall Links
Levenhall Links in Musselburgh is not just a bird watcher's paradise. The mix of grassland, woodland, ponds and ash lagoons also make it a stunning place for a stroll. Park at Millhill and begin the walk by heading out to the mouth of the path that follows the sea wall, offering incredible views over to Fife and Edinburgh. Return to the start through the grassy meadows that sit next to Musselburgh Racecourse.
Post Walk Pit-Stops: Miro's Village, Musselburgh
Musselburgh & Firth Walk Route Information
It really is a summer of golf in Scotland – The Home of Golf this year!
Our neighbours in Fife are hosting the 150th Open at the Old Course in St Andrews and here in East Lothian we have not one but two major tournaments.
The Genesis Scottish Open gets things going from 7th-10th July at The Renaissance Club. The best of the best are set to tee off for the third Rolex Series event of the DP World Tour season. Among the Major Champions, Rolex Series winners and World Number Ones battling it out for the trophy are Scottish Scheffler, Jon Rahm, Collin Morikawa, Justin Thomas, Cameron Smith, Patrick Cantlay, Viktor Hovland, Sam Burns and Matt Fitzpatrick.
For event information and tickets
Then from 4th-7th August, the iconic Muirfield, host of 16 Open Championship, hosts the AIG Women’s Open. The top players from the women’s game are set to tackle this famed links course. Anna Nordqvist aims to become the first player since Yani Tseng in 2011 to successfully defend the title. But she’s up against some tough competition from the likes Georgia Hall, Leona Maguire, Nelly Korda, Jin-Yung Ko and Lydia Ko.
For event information and tickets
East Lothian is known as Scotland’s Golf Coast and with 21 quality courses it has something for golfers of all ages and abilities from Championship, traditional and modern links courses to classic inland courses. There is a great history here and the courses are set in truly stunning locations. You will find courses designed by such legends as Old Tom Morris and James Braid. Scotland’s Golf Course offers some super packages and deals on golf and accommodation.
If you are coming to East Lothian for a golf event or to play, there is plenty to keep you entertained off the course!
There’s the scenery for one thing. East Lothian stretches for over 40 miles of stunning coastline that includes rugged cliffs, golden sandy beaches and gentle rolling countryside. Towns and villages are steeped in history, with excellent places for food and drink, welcoming accommodation and independent shops.
The Renaissance Club is within Archerfield Estate and The Walled Garden is well worth a visit for a bite to eat and to pick up some unique gifts.
Muirfield is just along Scotland’s Golf Coast Road on the way to Gullane. We recommend a stroll around this picturesque place and a stop off at one of the restaurants and bars for locally sourced food and drinks. It’s a bit of a golfer’s dream location with no less than 4 golf courses lining the road. Gullane Bents is one of East Lothian’s most popular beaches and if you have the time, a stroll along the dune backed sand is a must.
Head along the coast road to the east and you will find Dirleton. This quaint village is set around a village green which is overlooked by the impressive Dirleton Castle. There are some great places to eat and drink here too.
North Berwick is one of East Lothian’s best loved towns and it’s easy to see why! With 2 beaches, the magnificent Tantallon Castle set on a cliff top, 2 golf courses and the iconic Bass Rock it’s easy to spend a while here.
No visit to Scotland is complete without a visit to a whisky distillery. Head inland and visit Glenkinchie - The Lowland Home of Johnnie Walker for a tour and a taste of The Edinburgh Malt.
You can find everything you need to know about visiting East Lothian at Visit East Lothian and if you plan to visit the beaches be sure to download the Visit East Lothian App available at App Store and Google Play
A Couples Weekend Escape to East Lothian...
With many of us choosing to book staycations this year, we really wanted to visit somewhere new to us and East Lothian was definitely an area that we were both excited to explore.
We settled on booking a stay in North Berwick because we really wanted to get away from our usual life in the city and of course, enjoy some of that fresh sea air. But more than that, we are big fans of seafood, nature and history which are all things that North Berwick offers in abundance.
As we were driving into North Berwick, past all of the lovely golden fields and basking in the sunshine, we were both feeling very happy (and a little smug) in our choice to visit East Lothian, as we knew that those back home were not enjoying the same weather!
One of the first things I noticed as we got closer to the town, was the Bass Rock. It took me by surprise as I had no idea that it was so close to land, or that it was quite so imposing! I was impressed and equally taken aback.
Next, we passed Tantallon Castle, another standout location as it’s seen perched on the cliffside.
As we carried on towards the town centre, we began to see rows of colourful houses, the water, and happy crowds of people filling the streets. You couldn’t help but have a sense of excitement at what was to come.
We had definitely made the right choice.
We spent two days relaxing, wandering the beaches, shopping on the high street, sightseeing at the top tourist spots, visiting cafes and eating copious amounts of glorious food. You can read all about it in our other posts but below are some of my favourite things about our couples escape to East Lothian!
The Secret Cabin
When it came to booking our accommodation, there were so many fantastic options available.
Whether you wanted a hotel by the golf course, an apartment overlooking the water or a caravan for the family, there’s something for everyone.
For us, we liked the idea of booking something totally different to our life at home and chose ‘The Secret Cabin’. This is a self-catering home that has a fully equipped kitchen, shower room, wood fire and even a private garden. You can find ‘The Secret Cabin’ tucked away by Seacliff beach, which is around a 10-minute drive from North Berwick High Street.
Despite not knowing the area and it being somewhat hidden, ‘The Secret Cabin’ was surprisingly easy to find and upon entering, we couldn’t believe how lovely it was. I feel very lucky to have stayed, it far exceeded our expectations and we couldn’t have looked or wanted for anything more.
There were so many personal touches that added to our visit and definitely did not go unnoticed. Right down to the scones and jam that were waiting to welcome us.
Sadly, as we visited in the summer, we had no need for the woodfire, which felt like such a shame but I can imagine just how wonderful it is to visit over winter!
Seacliff Beach
As mentioned, our accommodation was near Seacliff beach, which we took a walk to in the evening.
This walk, which led us past fields of horses, took maybe 10 minutes. I will say that although you are walking on a road, it is quite steep in parts. If this is a concern, you can always drive to an accessible car park at the beachfront.
We enjoyed our walk and there were never-ending photo opportunities. We were awestruck by the views before us. And even more so when we reached the beach itself.
Part of the pleasure of visiting in the evening is that there were only a handful of other people on the beach with us. Some playing in the water and others walking their dogs.
We stood by the water, admiring Bass Rock ahead of us, and Tantallon Castle to the left of us.
Eventually, we wandered over the rocks (make sure to look out for the tiny harbour!) and took in more of the sights.
This was a wonderful time spent detaching from real life and feeling truly relaxed.
Haddington
Haddington is yet another picturesque, beautiful town (East Lothian is filled with them!) and we spent many hours walking around the streets whilst exploring the area.
We went to The Loft Cafe, where we received a delicious breakfast and we even sat outside where we got to enjoy more of the glorious sunshine. A rarity for Scotland!
From there, we walked around the town centre, visiting many of the local and charity shops. Sadly, we didn’t find anything to buy on our visit but it’s a great stop for some shopping.
Two of my favourite experiences from our time there were the walk around St Marys Pleasance Garden and a visit to Nungate Bridge. I loved the stonework and the town had a really lovely atmosphere.
As a personal love interest, there are some really beautiful buildings to be seen in this area and some of my favourite pictures of the entire trip were taken in Haddington.
Museum of Flight
As with all couple escapes, I think we can agree that there is usually an element of compromise required. And agreeing to visit the National Museum of Flight was mine. Or so I thought.
Now, I love learning about history, wandering museums, having new adventures and I was more than happy to visit East Fortune, but I really didn’t think that it would have much to offer me personally, as my knowledge of planes, undoubtedly, leaves a lot to be desired.
However, I loved it. From start to finish, I thoroughly enjoyed the visit and walk around the East Fortune Airfield and it was nice to see my partner having so much excitement and passion for something.
There are so many planes of all kinds to see, but of course, the Concorde was the main attraction. It is where we spent the majority of our time and I think there’s always an element of fun in getting on a plane, even if you aren’t going anywhere.
It may not have been at the top of my list of places to visit initially, but it’s one that I would definitely recommend now that I have been.
We experienced so much of North Berwick in such a short space of time and had the most wonderful break away!
It may have been a short visit but we left East Lothian with so many great memories, and definitely, some things left to tick off the list!
Enjoy a great day out exploring the dramatic East Lothian coastline and countryside on quiet country lanes on this route along the John Muir Way from North Berwick to Tantallon Castle.
Route Description
Leaving from North Berwick pier, this route takes in clifftop sights, an ancient castle with a dramatic setting and sandy beaches.
From the Scottish Seabird Centre, cross Milsey Bay and take the track across the golf course, leading to the main Tantallon Road. Heading east, you'll quickly turn south onto quiet back roads, with a short off-road track leading to Whitekirk.
It's then onto the coastal road leading to Seacliff Beach, before turning back towards the imposing Tantallon Castle.
Enjoy a coffee shop overlooking the cliffs and Bass Rock, once a formidable prison, and now an important seabird sanctuary, on your way back towards North Berwick town.
Route Details
Level: Intermediate Description: Flat or rolling terrain along quiet roads and tracks with a short main road section
Time: 2.5 hours Profile: Total Ascent 109m / Highest Point 49m
Route Level Classifications
Introductory: Distance <15km / Terrain few to no hills
Intermediate: Distance 15-35km / Terrain some hills
Challenging: Distance >35km / Terrain hilly
The distances may vary slightly from the classification depending on the amount of hills and the nature of the route.
View Points / Attractions Along the Way
Scottish Seabird Centre - explore the wonder of Scotland's marine environment at the centre’s 5-star Discovery Experience. Or take a boat trip to see stunning seabirds and marine life, from endangered puffins to the world's largest colony of Northern gannets, and maybe even dolphins.
North Berwick Law - take a walk up Berwick Law, an ancient volcanic plug that erupted over 300 million years ago. At the top, enjoy the views under the whale's jawbone which marks North Berwick's seafaring past. You will also see part of an old look-out shelter from the Napoleonic Wars.
Seacliff Beach - discover this hidden gem which is home to the UK's smallest harbour with spectacular views of the Bass Rock and Tantallon Castle.
Tantallon Castle - climb the walls of the this imposing castle perched upon a clifftop with magnificent views across the Firth of Forth. There is currently no visitor access to the castle or Doocot. The castle grounds are open - for more information.
Friendly Stops Along the Way
Law Cycles, 2 Law Road, North Berwick, EH39 4PL - Tel 01620 890643 - offers a selection of cycle parts, accessories and professional cycle repair and cleaning service. Drift Cafe - Canty Bay, North Berwick, EH39 5PL, Tel 01620 892817 - perfect for a pit stop, this unique coffee house situated upon the clifftops with breathtaking views across the Firth of Forth coast and the Bass Rock. Everything on the menu is freshly made using locally sourced or Scottish produce and champions all that is great about Scottish agri-tourism.
EZ Riders - Castleton Farm, North Berwick, EH39 5PN - Tel 07407 039747 - specialising in E-bike rental, leasing, tours and sales and can recommend loads of amazing routes, both on and-off road. Scottish Seabird Centre - The Harbour, North Berwick, EH39 4SS - Tel 01620 890202 - enjoy locally sourced food and drink and soak up the amazing coastal views.
Check out the route highlights in the video below.
For more East Lothian cycling inspiration visit here.
Anna Neubert-Wood, WanderWomen Scotland Ltd talks about the mindful things to do in East Lothian to find your inner peace.
1. Walk barefoot at the beach. Barefoot walking is really good for you, not just does it slow you right down, helping you de-stress, but it’s also free reflexology, it grounds you, and gives you a sense of freedom and adventure.
Try it here: any sandy beach in East Lothian will be perfect. We love Tyninghame Beach for it. Add a few rocks for the advanced barefoot experience.
2. Spend some time with a tree, and listen to the sounds around you, notice all the life around you - what do you notice? Can you spot any animals? Can you tell different birdsong apart? Whether you are standing or sitting with a tree, notice how unconditionally the tree has your back, how it supports you, how you can trust it with your weight, and how being around trees calms you.
Try it here: Blinkbonny Wood, Gifford Community Woodland are some of our favourites.
3. Search for sea treasures (sea glass or sea pottery), and build rock stacks. Finding flow in a playful activity, being present and finding joy in the simple things, is beautiful mindfulness. Once you slow down, you will be amazed at all the colours by your feet, shapes and sizes of washed up treasures. Building rock stacks requires a steady hand, balancing skills and a calm mind. Practice, practice, practice - how high can you stack your tower?
Try it here: Morrison’s Haven and Prestonpans Beach.
4. Create some nature art. Wherever you might be on a walk, pick up things that catch your eye - colours, textures, shapes…those might be rocks, shells, feathers, sticks. Collect with a child-like mind. It will make you pay more attention to what’s around you. Eventually, create something nice with it, whether it’s a mandala, a face, a little landscape or anything else that makes you feel creative!
Try it here: Any walk in any East Lothian location will do - beach, woodland or hills!
5. Sea meditation: Sit or stand facing the sea. Become aware of the space. The colours, the sounds. Focus your mind on the sound of the crashing waves and notice it for a while. Eventually try and synchronise your breathing with the rhythm of the waves. Breathing in with the incoming wave, breathe out with the crashing and the retreating of the wave. In and out. Nature makes you feel so good!
Try it here: Anywhere on East Lothian’s beaches. The louder and powerful the waves, the better!
6. Skygaze. Take some time to lie down somewhere comfy - on the sandy beach or a grassy area. Relax. Watch the sky and the clouds, notice whether it’s a still day with slow moving clouds, or whether it’s wild and clouds shapeshift quickly. What shapes can you notice? What stories can you come up with? Become aware of the big space above you - are the clouds far away? Or are they quite low? Which way does the wind blow? Can you touch the sky? Be playful and enjoy!
Try it here: We like Yellowcraig Beach or the grassy plain behind the dunes for this!
7. Climb a hill and feel on top of the world. Getting moving, getting the heart pumping makes you get in touch with your breath - it’s so good for you to breathe deeply, using your whole lung capacity. Think about how shallow your breathing is in other life situations! They can do so much more for you! You are strong! Take in the beautiful views in this stunning piece of the world.
Try it here: Traprain Law & North Berwick Law, with some added wild horse fun!
8. Spend some time by a rock pool. Notice all the life that goes on in this little habitat. Isn’t it fascinating? Notice the colours, movement and calm. Imagine what would change, once the tide comes in.
Try it here: At rocky parts of the coast, at low tide. For example at Longniddry Bents, East of North Berwick and Seacliff Beach.
9. Make yourself a wild flower crown or pick some flowers to take home. Connecting with the plants and flowers makes you feel more connected to any place. Watch all the insects that love the plants, and be respectful to leave some for them to enjoy. Only take what you can use/what you need. Don’t pick all the flowers from the same patch. Notice the scents, and think back to when you made flower crowns as a child. Did you use daisies or dandelions? Go and make one now. Or simply take some home to pop in a vase, to remind you of your special time outside.
Try it here: At field edges, by the side of paths. Anywhere in East Lothian. Once you pay attention you will see wildflowers and pretty weeds everywhere!
10. Forage some Seabuckthorn! Scotland’s superfood is easy to spot - its orange berries can be found along many East Lothian beaches - Very distinctive, they are best to harvest in October and November. Because of it’s thorny branches, bring secateurs and cut off a branch, which you then pop in the freezer overnight. The next morning you are able to get the berries off really easily. A handful thrown into a smoothie mix, or cooked down into a jam, you will benefit from all its antioxidants and vitamins. Raw, and on its own, it tastes very sour and tart, because of its high vitamin C content. Be healthy and feel good! Good fact - because it’s not a native species, you can’t over harvest Seabuckthorn. (with other foraging, you need to be more careful!)
Try it here: Most places near the beaches - Gullane Beach, Yellowcraig Beach, etc.
For more mindfulness and adventure, join WanderWomen’s activities, with the added bonus of the company of small groups of like-hearted women and guidance and facilitation by Anna.
Find out more at www.wander-women.co.uk on Facebook Instagram and Twitter.
Book yourself onto some Selfcare & Nature Connection now! Currently there is a 50% discount on tickets up to £40, too - use the Discount Code “DaysOutinScotland50” to make the most of the discount!
We were lucky to visit the town over the space of a couple of days and believe that we found some wonderful foodie eateries that we would love to share with you.
The Loft Cafe & Bakery
We stopped for breakfast at The Loft Café & Bakery which is in the town of Haddington, around a 20-minute drive from North Berwick.
If you have the good fortune of visiting on a bright day, they have a gorgeous outdoor seating area which is where we were lucky enough to find a table. Otherwise, if you prefer, you can always opt to sit indoors.
Ordering a Full Loft (full breakfast) and a Breakfast Toastie along with some coffees, we found the service to be quick and friendly. The portions were just the right size for us and it was really fairly priced for the quality of food that we received.
All of the food that we saw being served looked delicious and they have a great, varied menu. I would love to return and try some more of the offerings, especially one of their homemade sausage rolls!
Vegetarian and gluten-free alternatives are available for many of the menu items.
Bostock Bakery
We visited Bostock Bakery twice on our visit to North Berwick and I think that is a testament in itself.
They offer a selection of bread, pastries, cakes and coffee to take away.
On our first visit, we bought a Pastel de nata (Portuguese custard tart) and a savoury croissant. We sat in the nearby park to eat them and they were both so delicious that we made a mental note to return and buy a loaf of bread for our stay.
On our second visit, we chose a crusty white bread and a cruffin (thrown in for good measure). Again, both were really tasty. This was my first taste of both a Pastel de nata and a cruffin - highly recommended!
This is a very popular bakery and there was almost always a queue outside, so don’t hesitate too much if you are looking to purchase something or they may just have sold out!
I would also say, yes, it’s a little bit more expensive than the supermarkets but it is definitely worth it for the quality, the taste and the freshness of each item.
There was definitely a lot of love put into these recipes.
Drift
Drift is a great spot for breakfast, coffee, cake and lunch in North Berwick.
They use a lot of fresh, seasonal, Scottish produce but to me, it was the incredible cliffside views that really caught my attention. Using an upcycled shipping container with large floor to ceiling windows that overlook the water and the incredible Bass Rock, this is definitely food with a view.
The menu at Drift is erring on the side of accessible fine dining in my eyes. While you can still order the full breakfast, sausage roll or soup, the ingredients and flavours are somewhat richer and of a higher quality.
If you don’t have the time to sit in but would still like to try the food at Drift, why not visit their Takeaway Trailer which can be found outside the restaurant, or order one of their Treat or Pick Me Up boxes to eat at home.
Steampunk Coffee
The premises are lovely but at the time of our visit, there was no hot food being served, it was back to basics, good coffee and some cake. I believe that the building was an old joinery warehouse and it looks fantastic, so I was sad that we couldn’t have the full experience.
Nevertheless, we bought some iced coffees as the weather was so lovely and enjoyed them as we walked around the town and took in the sights.
Steampunk are coffee roasters first and foremost, coffee is clearly the passion, and it was great!
They obviously take a lot of pride in what they do and you can buy some of their coffee and/or equipment from the store.
The Lobster Shack
The Lobster Shack was the one place that I just had to visit. There was no question, this food van had been all over my news feeds for what felt like years.
Unbelievably, I didn’t get the opportunity - I was on a tight schedule and didn’t have time to wait in the long queue; they were closed; awaiting food deliveries - for whatever reason, we couldn’t make it work!
I was so disappointed because their menu and the pictures that I have seen, look so delicious.
One day…
The Rocketeer
But fear not, because I discovered that The Lobster Shack and its sister The Rocketeer restaurant nearby, offer almost exactly the same menu.
The main differences being, that The Rocketeer has indoor seating and also offer some meat dishes. Now, I would advise you to make a reservation quite early if you would like to dine here, as there are only 10 or so tables. Book ahead of time especially if you want a lovely beachfront view.
We visited over lunchtime and had two courses. Starting with the sharing platter, we had hot salmon and prawn fishcakes, two prawn fritters and some squid which came with 3 dips.
Each part was delicious and we even had comments from other tables exclaiming that they wished that they had ordered it, so the sharing platter is a must in my eyes!
For mains, we ordered the fish burger and the dressed crab, both came with double-dipped chips.
Both the food and service were brilliant, this is a must-visit.
North Berwick Fry
Sometimes, going out for a meal is not on the agenda, but you still want to treat yourself.
We felt this way after a long day of travel and we could not decide (or agree) on where to eat.
Frankly, we were tired and in desperate need of some rest, so we did what any tourist by the seaside does, and got some takeaway fish and chips!
The North Berwick Fry was the closest to us and had some great reviews. We visited the shop, ordered 2 standard fish suppers and received them almost immediately.
I was a little disappointed that they were served to us in boxes rather than being wrapped in paper as I wasn’t sure how well they would retain the heat, but we got back to our cabin and all was well.
The food was still hot, the portions were large, definitely no complaints and it was really tasty.
Alandas Gelato
Another seaside treat is of course ice cream. You couldn’t miss the long queue outside Alandas Gelato and to me, that’s a great sign.
Using locally sourced ingredients, including milk and cream, there were a huge array of flavours to choose from.
I picked the raspberry ripple, which had full frozen raspberries mixed through it and it was delicious! My mouth is watering at the thought of it!
Living well and taking time for ourselves has always been important but often overlooked. In recent times looking after our physical health and mental wellbeing has come to the fore. East Lothian is the ideal location to take time to find balance, to rest, to recharge and indulge in a bit of mindfulness.
How about a digital detox, tuning into your surroundings, enjoying a truly authentic experience or exploring the natural landscape?
Eat Local Produce
Known as Scotland’s Food & Drink County, the East Lothian larder includes seafood, fruit & vegetables, grains and is great for foraging. Fine produce is available from shops, delis and farmers markets and can be ordered for home delivery or pick up. Quiet cafes and restaurants proudly display the local producers featured on their menus.
Scotland's Food & Drink County
Stroll, Jog or Run along a Beach
With over 40 miles of stunning coastline, East Lothian has some of Scotland’s finest beaches. Some are well known and can be busy at times such as Gullane, Longniddry and Yellowcraig. However, there are plenty of quieter spots where you can often have the whole place to yourself.
Try a Spot of Yoga
Many established yogis run classes indoors and out across the county. You can even try SUP Yoga – a great way to test your balance! Or simply grab your mat and head out for some individual practice surrounded by nature and really reconnect.
Forest Bathing
This activity from Japan means sitting peacefully and quietly in a forest or wood and tapping into your senses to immerse yourself in your surroundings. East Lothian’s woodlands date back hundreds of years and are perfect for forest bathing.
Take to the Water
Swimming in the sea and lochs has taken off during the Covid-19 pandemic. East Lothian has many quiet bays, secluded lakes and lochs for you to take a dip. Or why not try coasteering, surfing or stand-up paddle boarding? Follow safety advice and procedures when you take to the water.
Meet the Locals!
Get up close to nature as you walk, cycle or take a boat trip. There is an abundance of birdlife, marine life and wildlife to be spotted throughout the East Lothian coast and countryside. A camera is a must if you want to capture puffins, gannets, dolphins, seals, otters, swans, deer, hares and butterflies to name just a few!
Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
