For years, I have seen pictures of the Bass Rock on those 'top must-visit places in Scotland' lists, you know the ones, yet nothing could have prepared me for the surprise I got when I finally experienced it in person.

I was awestruck.  It is so much closer to land than I had expected, and yes, I knew that it was close to land but still, it was much closer than expected.  I saw it in all of its glory long before we reached the shore of North Berwick, a sight that I had not anticipated so early on and it was wonderful.

Safe to say, we struck lucky by visiting East Lothian on one of the hottest days of the year so far and with that, I was really thankful for my planning on this occasion, as we had pre-booked one of the visit Bass Rock sightseeing tours with Sula Boat Trips where the cool breeze and sea spray were very much welcomed!

But I'll be honest, I had a lot of anxiety ahead of this boat trip as I recently injured my foot and was afraid that any (small as they may be) jumps could damage it further.  However, there was no need to worry as there was a small gangway with barriers on either side that made access very easy and comfortable.

We booked the first sailing of the day, 10 am, for our trip.  You do have to arrive at North Berwick harbour around 20 minutes before departure but it was nice to be up and see the town a little earlier in the day as it was much quieter.  We also had the chance to admire the gorgeous houses and views before our trip.

Once aboard, we took our seats overlooking the water and settled in.  I know that many of us tend to scramble for the best seats and the best views when on these trips, especially if you enjoy photography and want those dramatic shots with no obstruction, but the boat does turn and stop frequently to allow everyone that opportunity, so do not worry about your seating!

The tour is 1.5 hours long, leaving you with plenty of time to explore North Berwick afterwards if you are on a brief visit as we were, and I think the trip was a great length for the younger children on board while still feeling that you had enough time to experience and enjoy the Bass Rock.

As we had gorgeous weather, we passed lots of families and children enjoying the sun while we made our way out of the harbour, watching as they took part in activities like sailing, canoeing and jumping into the water.

We enjoyed a lovely, smooth journey towards Craigleith Island and once we arrived, we had the pleasure of seeing puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes among many other birds.

Our guide for the trip, Caroline, was fantastic.  She was engaging, personable, enthusiastic, and extremely knowledgeable.  I feel that we learnt so much about the birds along with the history of the Bass Rock and the surrounding area thanks to her passion, which was clear to see.

Once we learnt a little about the birds on Craigleith, we made our way to the main event.

Standing at approximately 350 feet at its highest point, the Bass Rock is an imposing volcanic plug that is now home to the world's largest colony of Northern gannets.

The island is so imposing and incredible to see close up, and it only gets more impressive as you make your way around.  Now obviously, the gannets are the big attraction.  Around 150,000 gannets are nesting on the island, we even had the opportunity to see some guga (gannet chicks) and despite the scores of birds flying above your head, it's a very serene experience.

And yes, it comes with its faults, I did get pooped on… twice!

But it's a small price to pay and without going into too much detail, it's easily cleaned and doesn't stain.  Although, you might want to consider taking a hat if you can!

Making your way around the island and navigating your eyes through the mass of Scottish seabirds, we ventured closer to the rocks and towards the sea caves. The smell was pungent.  Manageable, no retching, but as you can imagine with so many birds, it's not entirely pleasant!

We did not go into any of the sea caves but that allows a clearer view of the birds nesting, the fluffy baby guga and the opportunity to see some of the rituals and behaviours of the birds, which were really interesting.  Many traits are just like us in a lot of ways.

As you continue around the island, you will spot the now out of use foghorn.  It is visible on one of the highest points, and though there's not a huge amount to see, we were told a couple of facts about its time in use.

Shortly thereafter, as you make your way to the other side of the island, you can see the Lighthouse.  I'm not sure if this is a personal thing, or if we all have an appreciation for lighthouses, but I love to see unique ones, especially when they have a story.

The Bass Rock Lighthouse is no longer operated by a keeper on site, I believe it is all operated by technology now.

And in terms of history, we learnt that Robert Louis Stevenson's cousin built the Lighthouse but another fact that really shocked me is that the Bass Rock was considered the Scottish Alcatraz.  I'm not implying anything as recently as Alcatraz, but many centuries ago, people were banished to the rock as punishment.

We were told a really interesting story about some prisoners that had been on the island, yet escaped the guards.  Of course, I won't spoil that for you in case you choose to go on the trip, but I'm definitely going to be reading more about that now that I'm home!

All while you are listening to the history of the island and trying to take in the surroundings, the experience of seeing the sheer number of gannets flying above your head and diving by the water is incredible. They are beautiful birds and it's not until you are close that you can really appreciate how big they are.  They have a wingspan of around 6ft!  Yet, they are so uninterested in the boat and the people that it does have tranquil elements.  You are very much in their world.

All in all, I would consider this to be an all-around age and family-friendly trip.  We even had a dog on our boat so do not consider that completely off-limits!

As we made our way back to the harbour, we passed the ruins of Tantallon Castle in the distance along with a section of the John Muir Way, which is a coast to coast walking and cycling route.

These were two things that I was quite excited to see as I will be returning to North Berwick shortly to hopefully see the castle a little closer, experience more of the town and attempt a portion of the John Muir Way by bike.

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit with Sula Boat Trips and I would highly recommend it but there are many other tour options to choose from such as the Scottish Seabird Centre, both of these options are priced around £26 per adult and £10 for children (although prices can differ).  Alternatively, you can book BlueWild for exclusive boat hire.

East Lothian is such an undiscovered area of Scotland.  Home to one of the fastest growing puffin colonies in Scotland and with miles of stunning coastline it's a diverse and beautiful area.  It is also home to one of the best bakeries I have ever stepped foot in! 

Let's start with food, because it’s always the best bet!  I can't go any further without mentioning the mecca of pastries, and location of the most incredible hybrid baking- Bostock Bakery.  We stopped in here twice, and almost cleaned them out of Cruffins (a muffin croissant hybrid) both times.  I have never in my life loved a pastry as much as I did eating these!

A lovely spot to sit out in the sunshine is Tyninghame Smithy.  The most picture perfect courtyard tearoom nestled in the quaint village of Tyninghame near Dunbar.  It's the perfect pit stop for cyclists, walkers and road trippers.  Serving coffee, tea and homemade cakes.

The food highlight of the trip was undoubtedly Hector's Artisan Pizza. A vegan heaven and with the most amazing pizzas made right in front of you it was through the roof! It is a lovely little industrial style restaurant, and to top it all off it’s totally dog friendly!  You'd never know it only opened last year (amidst the height of Covid).  The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, and the dogs got a lot of attention which they were very pleased about! 

My favourite place to catch a sunset is undoubtedly Barns Ness lighthouse with a beautiful stretch of beach, that is often overlooked in favour of the more popular locations such as Gullane.  Of course the emptiness of this stunning spot only adds to the charm of the place.  The dogs were able to run wild as the sun set behind us; lighting up the lighthouse with some beautiful pastel colours.

No visit to East Lothian is complete without a trip to the Bass Rock, and to the stunning Isle of May which is absolutely crammed with puffins, and come the summer pufflings (baby puffins!!).  If seeing puffins is at the top of your UK bucket list, then this is an essential activity;  watching the puffins hopping around and fishing is a must see if you can!  The Bass Rock itself is home to one of the largest colonies of gannets in the UK; it is a sight to behold and almost unbelievable to witness, especially close up.  If you don't fancy a boat trip, the Bass Rock is a striking and iconic sight, even from the shores of East Lothian.

Preston Mill is like stepping back in time.  Hidden at the back of the village of East Linton, it is a popular spot for dog walkers and has a beautiful wildflower meadow behind the mill itself.  Photo tip;  head through the five bar gate and turn right.  Here you can walk down to a little shore and get a lovely reflection shot of the mill.  If you are still hungry, head across the road to Smeaton Garden Centre for a cup of tea and a potter around the lovely gardens.

There are so many amazing spots in East Lothian, it's almost impossible to list them all; but the above are my personal favourites.

Get outside and explore #eastlothian there's plenty here to whet your appetite! #loveeastlothian responsibly #RespectProtectEnjoy

East Lothian is the perfect place for travellers seeking a relaxing rural retreat, with the added option of plenty of active adventures to throw into the mix!

Known as "Edinburgh's coast and countryside", East Lothian boasts over 40 miles of beautiful coastline complemented by rolling countryside that's studded with attractions to satisfy every type of explorer. 

Of course, there are plenty of well-known spots of interest that are worth exploring.  You can wander around North Berwick with all its wonderful attractions, go to the fascinating National Museum of Flight and enjoy stops in quaint towns and villages you'll find on your journey. 

But while the term "hidden gem" may seem overused elsewhere, East Lothian truly is full of lesser-known places that are fantastic to visit!

Planning a short stay in the region is easy and can be as relaxing or action-packed as you would like.  We would recommend at least two nights and three days to make the most of your time to adventure and relax, and get a real feel for the area.

Below is our ideal short itinerary for East Lothian for those seeking to visit the just as interesting but less widely known spots in the area. 

Day One

To ease you into your break and help you de-stress, your first day in East Lothian should be a relaxed and easy affair!  How long you have to spend exploring will depend on the length of your journey so take some time to settle in too.

We suggest visiting two spots near the town of Haddington, plus a further one or two if you have the time and feel the urge.

Hailes Castle

Dating back to the early 1200s and perched on the banks of the River Tyne, Hailes Castle is one of the oldest stone castles in Scotland.  It was extended through the 1300s and 1400s, but its days as a stronghold ended in 1650 when Cromwell invaded from England. 

The castle also has a connection to Mary, Queen of Scots, and it's believed her third husband, James Hepburn, 4th Earl of Bothwell, was likely born there.  He and Mary stayed there when travelling from Dunbar to their wedding at Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh in 1567. 

Visiting Hailes Castle is free, and while it may not be the most impressive castle ruins in Scotland, it's a wonderfully peaceful location that's perfect for a stroll or a riverside picnic, and a lovely introduction to the historical sites that East Lothian has to offer. 

Butterdean Wood

Butterdean Wood makes for an easy but picturesque walk through woodlands that are often teeming with wildlife, including birds like the wren, chaffinch, and goldcrest, known as the king of birds due to its crest of golden feathers. 

The woods are also home to roe deer, foxes and even badgers. You're most likely to spot the latter three at dawn or dusk. 

If you're travelling in spring, look out for the beautiful wildflowers and butterflies that thrive at that time of year.  

There are two marked routes at Butterdean Wood, the longest of which takes around 1 to 1.5 hour and provides a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of a busy life. 

From here you can venture into Haddington to one of the many cafes and restaurants, or if the weather is good, consider a picnic at nearby Longniddry Bents on the coast.  At Longniddry Bents, car park 3, you'll find the mobile Alandas Fish & Chips.  Their handmade chips are especially delicious!

Day Two

For your second day in East Lothian, we have two options, depending on your idea of fun!

John Muir Link Walkway

The first option is to walk the John Muir Link, a lesser-known trail that spans from Dunbar to Cockburnspath, taking in almost 17 kilometres of coastline while walking along grass paths, beaches, and tracks across fields.  It's a little steep at times and does involve some stairs, but the coastal views are absolutely worth it. A fantastic way to clear away any cobwebs!

The John Muir Link had initially been part of the famous John Muir Way, which starts in Helensburgh and is named after the author and naturalist born in Dunbar, where the coast to coast trail now officially ends. 

The John Muir Link is now the connection between that route and the Southern Upland Way and Berwickshire Coastal Paths. 

We recommend taking your lunch with you as there's not much in Cockburnspath by way of shops, except for a quaint Village Hall Cafe with limited opening days and hours.  Also, be sure to time your walk so as not to miss the return bus to Dunbar.  Expect to spend about 4.5-5 hours walking the trail, allowing for photo breaks and rests too!

Pressmennan Wood & Beaches

If you want to escape into the countryside but you're not so keen on a full day of walking, visit Pressmennan Wood instead.  The longest route takes about 1.5 hours, but there is a shorter version too. You'll walk alongside Pressmennan Lake, one of only two official "lakes" in Scotland, before circling into the forest to return. 

Keep an eye out for carvings of woodland creatures and their homes (Glingbob and Tooflit doorways) in the trees!  It can be muddy at times, so wear suitable footwear. 

After your walk, head to some of the easterly East Lothian beaches like Thorntonloch, Whitesands, or Tyninghame. 

If you're ready for a refreshment then the Tyninghame Smithy nearby has lovely homemade cakes and tasty food with tables available both inside or out if the weather is good.  If you're heading further north be sure to pop into Drift, a stunning cafe built inside converted shipping containers and with breath-taking views from the cliffs across to Bass Rock. 

Complete your day with a visit to Dunbar and its many independent shops and eateries, plus the excellent John Muir's Birthplace museum.  It's free to enter and perfect if you'd like to learn more about the town's most famous son. 

Day Three

Your last day in East Lothian also offers a wealth of options.  The first is a little more adventurous (and mysterious!), or if that's not for you, then we have some suggestions for more well-known East Lothian highlights. 

Gifford Village & Yester Castle

Gifford Village is a small picturesque village just south of Haddington.  It was developed on the former site of the village of Bothans, outside the gates of the Yester Estate.  It's worth visiting simply to wander the pretty streets, visit the church (between Easter and October), and enjoy some coffee and cake at the excellent Lewis & Clarke cafe or the Lanterne Rouge cafe.  Both have delicious homemade food!

However, we're also sending you to Gifford for another adventure!  When you get there you may notice that there is a pub hotel called the Goblin Ha, which is an intriguing name to say the least.  It's actually named after a hall in the nearby Yester Castle, and your adventurous destination for the day. 

Yester Castle was built by Sir Hugo de Giffard, the grandson of the first Laird of Yester, and the so-called Wizard of Yester.  He was reputed to be a necromancer, someone who communicates with the dead, and rumour has it that the castle was even built by Goblins!  De Giffard built an underground hall called the "Goblin Ha", which had a further staircase down to a well known locally as the "Staircase to Hell". 

Although much of Yester Castle now sits in ruin, the Goblin Ha remains well preserved, including its stunning Gothic ceiling.  And you can go and visit! 

It is a free attraction and therefore unattended and not looked after, so we have to warn you that you should visit with caution, and it can only be reached on foot by various walking routes around the town of Gifford.

Once there, you'll venture down a small tunnel into the hall itself, which is lit by two ground level windows.  It's a little dark so it's worth bringing your own light source.  We also suggest uploading an ordnance survey map of the area to your phone to help you in your search for the ruins as the Google Maps location isn't entirely accurate. 

The ruins are found in the middle of woodlands and can be accessed by three different routes.  Route one is from Gifford itself, where you can walk through the town and then along Yester Path, watching out for the castle ruins.  Route two is from the other end of the Yester Path at Danskine Loch, and is a shorter option, but there is limited parking at the start of the path.  Route three is via the Castle Park Golf Course. 

Here are some more detailed directions:

Route one From Gifford: Park in the village centre and walk along The Avenue.  Before the gates at the end of the avenue, you'll see a small path on the right hand side with signs towards Park Road.  Follow this and turn left along Park Road, and at the end of the road, you'll see a gate through which the Yester Path begins.  It follows a route through the woodland in the Yester Estate and alongside Gifford Water towards Danskine Loch.  If you were to complete the whole walk, it's 3.5km one way, but you'll want to start looking around for the castle on your right at about halfway, hence the need for an OS map!  After exploring the castle, you can return via the way you came to Gifford.

Route two from the Danskine Loch end of the Yester Path: There's space for around 1 or 2 cars at the junction Danskine Lodge B6355 (be careful not to block access), and from here it's about 3km/2miles return to Yester Castle.  The track will take you along the Gifford Water until just before Hopes Burn, where you can descend on the path to the right and then continue ahead until you cross a bridge across Hopes Water to Yester Castle.

Route three from Castle Park Golf Course: You may need permission to park and walk this option as you'll be walking alongside the golf course.  Follow the stone wall around the perimeter until you see a path that veers off to your right through the woods.  At the end, take the right-hand side again and keep right until you cross an old stone bridge and find the castle.  Once again we'd suggest a map just in case!

To get to Goblin Ha: Some people have trouble finding the Goblin Ha even when they reach the Yester Castle ruins.  You need to look for the Curtain Wall opposite the main remaining tower, go through this and then follow a steep path down towards the river.  There's a small door with a passageway that leads to the Goblin Ha.  Watch out for the further staircase inside.

More Popular East Lothian Spots

We really do think Gifford is a charming place to visit and a lovely spot for a walk, but if it's not for you, then you can consider some more well-known sights around East Lothian. 

The Glenkinchie Distillery is the Lowland home of Johnnie Walker, and their Edinburgh Malt provides one of the four whiskies blended to make up this iconic brand. 

Their newly refurbished Victorian distillery provides whisky tours and tastings, a lovely gift shop, and a beautifully designed bar area where you can enjoy drinks and platters curated from Scottish produce. 

You can relax and enjoy yourself while overlooking the peaceful gardens and stream outside. 

Scotland's National Museum of Flight is located at the East Fortune Airfield and is home to one of the 18 remaining Concorde in the world, as well as a Vulcan from the Falklands War, a de Havilland Comet, the world's first commercial jet plane, and hangars full of military aircraft and those used throughout the years in civil aviation.  It's a fantastic place for the young and old with so much to see and learn about!

The Scottish Seabird Centre at North Berwick provides another opportunity to learn, this time about the seabirds and mammals found in the surrounding sea. You can also go on one of their wildlife boat trips and enjoy an hour-long cruise to Bass Rock, home to the world's largest colony of Northern gannets, and around the island of Craigleith. 

Where to Stay

To add to your unique experience exploring East Lothian's lesser-known parts, we would recommend the following quirky accommodation. 

Secret Cabin, Seacliff

Their tagline is "Switch off and unwind", and that's precisely what you can do in this picturesque cabin nestled amongst the woodlands at Seacliff.  The cabin may be compact, but it has everything you need, with a double bed, full kitchen, and shower room. 

There's even a log burning stove for chillier nights or a BBQ/fire-pit to enjoy outside if the weather's nice.  Stargaze from the cabin or walk down to the nearby beach.  You won't forget this unique and secluded accommodation experience anytime soon!

Harvest Moon Holidays

Harvest Moon offers various glamping options at their beachside location, including tree houses and beach cabins as well as a cottage.  The treehouses have two bedrooms and an ensuite bathroom with an octagonal living area and a fully kitted kitchen.  While they do have electricity there's no wifi or TV, so you can relax without distraction.  A raised deck area provides excellent views across to Bass Rock out at sea or to the woodland behind. 

The beach cabins are unsurprisingly located right next to the beach with sand dune and farmland views from the veranda.  They include two bedrooms and a cosy "cupboard" for extra sleeping space, as well as a living area, kitchen, and ensuite bathroom. 

There's no direct power, but there are charging facilities on-site and lanterns are provided for light, plus ice packs for the coolers that act as your fridge. 

Staying at Harvest Moon will enhance your restorative weekend away and provide a real sense of escapism. 

For more places to stay in East Lothian

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East Lothian is the perfect place to visit for a getaway where you can enjoy some more active adventures but also give yourself plenty of time to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. 

Please always check opening arrangements direct with businesses and follow the current guidelines #loveeastlothian

With its beautiful coastline and rolling countryside, East Lothian is a lovely place to explore with the family.   It's also home to great family-friendly places to eat, including many who take advantage of the wealth of fantastic ingredients available locally.

As a family, we're always looking for new foodie spots, as well as visiting old favourites.  We're so lucky to have a vibrant and diverse food and drink scene right on our doorstep in East Lothian!

Since we moved here a few years ago, we've been exploring and trying as many new places as we can.  We thought it was about time we shared some of our top family-friendly places to eat across East Lothian.  From garden cafes to ice-cream parlours, farm shops to pubs, there really is something for everyone!

Archerfield Walled Garden, Dirleton

Archerfield Walled Garden is the perfect place to visit as a family.  There's a beautiful 18th-century walled garden to explore, a woodland fairy trail to wander and an excellent play park. 

If all of that isn't enough, you can also enjoy food from the onsite Garden Cafe. 

The menu has tasty sandwiches and hot options like soup, burgers, and fish 'n' chips, plus mini versions for kids.  Not to mention they have cakes by the excellent Mimi's Bakehouse in Edinburgh, another one of our favourites!

All the outdoor spaces are free of charge to explore, and we love visiting with our little monster so he can burn off some energy before we grab some coffee and cake. 

Waterside Bistro, Haddington

The Waterside Bistro is a charming and award-winning restaurant and bar that sits alongside the river Tyne in the quaint town of Haddington, which in itself is well worth a visit. 

This family-run Bistro creates new menus inspired by the location and that are made for each season.  They offer plenty of classics alongside daily specials and children's options.  They really do have something to offer even the fussiest eater.

We particularly enjoy sitting outside on a fine day, watching the world go by, although there is a fireplace inside, making for a cosy atmosphere on chillier days. Highchairs are available. 

S. Luca of Musselburgh

Luca's has been serving ice cream for over 100 years!  Their flagship store in Musselburgh opened in 1908 and has been going strong ever since.  You can stop by for a takeaway ice-cream on your way to the seaside or eat in at the cafe. 

As well as an extensive ice cream menu, they serve breakfast, light bites, Italian-style mains, cakes, hot drinks, milkshakes, and of course, ice cream floats. 

They really are excellent at catering for families and are more than happy to welcome little ones.  They always ensure you're served promptly and have everything you need to enjoy your time there.

However, it' s their 100 years plus of experience in making ice-cream that makes a visit so memorable.   All of the different varieties on offer are excellent and we struggle to choose each time.  We very much recommend New York Lime Cheesecake and White Chocolate Fudge Brownie!

It's a favourite stop for us on walks around Musselburgh.  Be warned, on a warm day, queuing for your ice-cream is part of the experience! 

Cadell's Cafe at Cockenzie House, Cockenzie

Cockenzie House is a 17th-century mansion and grounds with lovely gardens situated in the seaside town of Cockenzie, near Prestonpans. 

The house itself is open most days, and Cadells Cafe overlooking the garden serves breakfast and lunch when it is.  The cafe is named after the Cadell family, who occupied the house for over 200 years. 

The menu is a classic cafe affair with various soups, sandwiches, scones, and cakes.  Still, it's all high quality and served by friendly staff. If you are planning a visit, check out their website as there are special events held at the house that might like to add to your visit.

The Loft Cafe & Bakery, Haddington

Located close to the centre of the historic market town of Haddington is the Loft Cafe & Bakery.  The spacious cafe is located on the second floor of a beautiful stone building and also has a small courtyard with outdoor seating available.  Everything is made in-house and local ingredients are sourced wherever possible. 

There's an excellent children's menu that includes sandwiches and a smaller portion of their "Legendary Sausage Rolls", which are homemade and come as a vegetarian option too.  They really are quite impressive and worth the visit alone!  We found the staff very friendly and accommodating to our messy toddler.

The coffee is good, and we enjoy grabbing a bite to eat and then a cake to takeaway when we go!

Bistro at the Brunton Theatre, Musselburgh

The Brunton Theatre in Musselburgh often has children's shows, so stopping by the Bistro at the Brunton with the family pre-performance is a given.   But it should equally be considered for a visit at other times too. 

The menu is simple with standard breakfast items, light lunches like soup and sandwiches, bigger meals like burgers and fish 'n' chips, and a children's menu with various options.  Plus, they make a delicious afternoon tea at a very reasonable price!  Perfect!

Goose on the Green, Gullane

Situated on the main street in Gullane, Goose on the Green is a lovely, bright, family-friendly cafe that serves delicious homemade food. 

They pride themselves in making all their bread, scones, and cakes in-house, and they serve breakfast rolls, soup, salads, and sandwiches.  The little one's menu has mini versions of several items, which is great for kids as they don't always want fried food!

You can eat in or grab something to take away and head down to Gullane beach.  We can strongly recommend the scones.  It's so hard to beat a homemade scone, after all.

The Cafe at Merryhatton, East Fortune

Garden Centre cafes are often a great place to take a family, and the Cafe at Merryhatton is no exception.  It's well set up for adults and children alike.  There's always homemade soup on the menu, which sources local ingredients where possible, and they serve breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea too. 

The facilities are all family-friendly and there's even an indoor kids play area so they can be entertained while you wait to be served.  Any chance to grab five minutes of peace is a sure-fire winner in our book.

Fenton Barns Farm Shop & Cafe, Fenton Barns

Fenton Barns Farm Shop & Café is located in the countryside between Haddington and North Berwick.  As well as browsing the wealth of local ingredients and produce, you can visit their cafe.  They use as many of their own products as possible, so you can try before you buy!

Soups are homemade, and the menu also offers sandwiches, salads, and even heart-warming stovies, as well as lots of different daily specials. 

Also, there's a children's playground just outside for pre or post-food play.  This list is just a snippet of our favourite family spots to eat in East Lothian.  It doesn't even scratch the surface of what's available!  There are so many exciting places to eat in East Lothian with a family, and part of the fun we've had is discovering our own hidden gems. 

We're always finding new places to explore, and we can't wait to sample more from Scotland's food and drink county!

Who doesn't love a takeaway?  East Lothian has plenty to choose from and some of our cafes and restaurants are offering this service too while eating indoors has not been possible.  Here's a few to whet your appetite!

The Rocks, Dunbar

The Rocks is an award-winning restaurant known for its locally sourced dishes such as freshly caught seafood and prime beef.  On Friday, Saturday and Sunday you can enjoy takeaway hot drinks, pies and sweet treats from The Courtyard.  You can also pre-order your chef-prepared heat at home Sunday roast – so no need to miss out!

Number 7, Haddington

If you want a sumptuous 3 course meal then you should have a look at Number 7's menus which feature hearty home cooked favourites such as macaroni and cheese, steak pie, curry, rice pudding and crumble.  Pre order for delivery or collection.  

No. 12 Hotel & Bistro, North Berwick

A well-loved family run hotel & bistro, No 12 is serving takeaways from their garden bar.  Perfect for picking up hot & cold drinks, breakfast rolls, panini's, wraps, cakes and scones.  They also serve the heavenly Luca's ice cream!

Cadell's Cafe, Cockenzie

Located in Cockenzie House, a 17th century mansion now home to artists' studios and gift shops, Cadell's is operating a coffee house in the garden.  This is just the perfect spot for your coffee and cake fix.  Available Sunday – Wednesday.

Giancarlo's Italian, Tranent

Satisfy your longing for pizza and pasta from Giancarlo's!   Their take away menu has old favourites and new flavour combinations of delicious restaurant standard food to enjoy at home.  Why not add a thirst quenching frozen cocktail?  Order online for pick up or delivery.

East Coast, Musselburgh

Continuing the Crolla family tradition of serving some of the best fish and chips around, East Coast are open for take away and click and collect Thursday – Sunday.  Choose from a selection of traditional foods battered, beer battered and panko bread crumbed.

So there you have it just a few suggestions for you to enjoy some great East Lothian cooking at home or outdoors.  

Please keep checking our social channels for updates on our hospitality businesses opening up in the coming weeks. 

Meanwhile #staysafe and #loveeastlothian

East Lothian has some fantastic dog friendly walks – whether you fancy a bit of an uphill climb for amazing views or prefer something a little bit flatter – we have plenty of ideas to help you keep fit and active as you enjoy your outdoor exercise.  Oh and we should say, don't forget that these walks are suitable for your dog's daily exercise too!

Yellowcraig Beach

East Lothian is not known as Edinburgh's Coast & Countryside for nothing and we certainly do have some of the country's finest beaches.  Yellowcraig makes for the perfect beach walk with your dog combining forest, dunes and a seemingly endless stretch of wide open golden sand.  Enjoy spectacular views of the 1885 lighthouse on the island of Fidra – the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island.

North Berwick to Tantallon Castle

North Berwick is a charming traditional seaside town with super beaches for leisurely strolls.  However, a scenic 10km walk takes you to the majestic Tantallon Castle perched upon the cliff tops and back to the town.  This walk offers stunning views of North Berwick, the Bass Rock, coastline and the castle.  For more information.

Longniddry Railway Walk 

Quieter than the popular coastal areas, walkers can head inland by following the peaceful path along the old railway line.   The walk begins at Longniddry train station car park and goes all the way to Haddington (6.6km one way).  This may be too far to tackle if you are doing a return journey - so you might want to pick a spot to stop and double back!  This flat and well-kept path is also great for cycling – and for wildlife spotting.  Redhouse Castle, a 15th century tower house and Hopetoun Monument built in 1824 on top of Byres Hill can also be seen on your walk.  For more information.

Gosford Estate

Gosford Estate grounds are open for walkers to explore at their leisure (permit required).  They were created as gardens for the estate's residents and contain forests, lakes and follies including an ice house, mausoleum and boat and bath house.  Paths are marked and you can choose from the Ponds or Dowdy Walks.

Gosford House, built in the late 18th century by the 7th Earl of Wemyss, is an impressive neo-classical mansion.  You can book tours of the house and grounds privately as well as on public open days.

Dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash.

Traprain Law

Traprain Law is the site of the famous Roman silver hoard.  A steep but short (2km) climb takes you to the top for breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside.  While the silver has long gone today you can see the wild ponies who call the Law home.  Dogs should be kept on a leash.

Pressmennan Wood

Situated near Stenton just outside Dunbar, Pressmennan Wood is ideal for families with dogs and has a selection of walks to choose from.  A wonderful mature woodland with a lake is home to a variety of wildlife as well as magical creatures!  Children will love looking out for the tiny hidden doors to the houses of the mythical 'Glingbobs' and 'Tooflits'.  A walk around the lake is about 4kms.

Please follow the Outdoor Access Code at all times to ensure that you, your dog and others have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Remember to follow the Scottish Government's current Covid-19 guidance and #staysafe #loveeastlothian

East Lothian is full of a wide variety of exciting things to do if you just know where to look!  From outdoor adventures to delicious places to eat, plus plenty of independent shops to browse, and inspiring museums, it really does have a bit of everything.

We love exploring our local area and we're always coming across new things to see and do, with active pursuits often featuring highly on our list but with some cultural and historic experiences thrown in too.

Originally we discovered East Lothian as a couple and found plenty to keep us entertained, and now as a young family, we're often looking for active pursuits to wear the little one out as well as being very keen on great food and learning about the rich history of East Lothian.

Since we're often sharing our favourite things to do and places to explore with visitors from near and far, we thought we'd share them with you too!

Foxlake Adventures - Dunbar

Foxlake is all about outdoor adventure and pushing your limits.

The star attraction is a low ropes course that runs over water, and will challenge you to put aside any fear and just go for it!  You don't wear a harness as you cross over various obstacles on three different routes to the zipline tower, instead you'll just fall in, swim to the side and begin again.

We had the best experience with a group of friends celebrating a birthday there.  It's the perfect place for both big and little kids!

On the adjacent lake, they also have wakeboarding and "Ringo", which is a large inflatable that's attached to a wire and tears up and down the lake as you hold on and try not to fall in.

In the nearby trees, you can traverse the ZipTrail, a zipline course that reaches up to 30ft above the ground, and there are even off-road Segway experiences too.

Most of these activities are for ages 6 or 8 plus, but there's a small children's playground and a cafe serving delicious home-cooked food and from where you can watch the activities if you're there with little ones too.

All in all a great day out!

Glenkinchie Distillery - Pencaitland

Scotland is full of whisky distilleries, and so, of course, one can be found in East Lothian too!

Known as the "Lowland Home of Johnnie Walker", the newly renovated Glenkinchie Distillery makes for a lovely day out.  Upon approaching, you walk through the fragrant gardens and can read the story of Glenkinchie on boards as you go along, before being welcomed into the elegant reception area and shop.

From here, you can take an excellent tour of the distillery and learn more about the Edinburgh Malt and how it became part of Johnnie Walker's legendary whisky.  Followed up by tastings of course!

Or head upstairs to the stylish restaurant and bar that overlooks the gardens.  You can grab a coffee or sample one of their platters full of locally sourced ingredients like smoked salmon, cheese, and homemade oatcakes.

Belhaven Bikes - Dunbar

Belhaven Bikes in Dunbar are primarily an independent shop offering all sorts of bicycle paraphernalia, as well as scooters, clothing, and plenty of accessories. They will also do repairs on everything from bicycles to wheelchairs!

However, they also offer bicycle rentals, including the ability to be dropped off at the start of the John Muir Way.  The John Muir Way is a coast to coast walking and cycling route that runs from Helensburgh in the west to John Muir's birthplace at Dunbar in the east.

If you don't want to go quite so far then you can take a peddle around the harbour at Dunbar and to Lochend Woods, or just take in a small part of the nearby part of the John Muir Way and John Muir Country Park.

The Go East Lothian Trail is also a family-friendly cycling route between Dunbar and North Berwick, exploring some of the beautiful scenery along the John Muir Way.

Belhaven Bikes provide cycling maps alongside rentals and have an abundance of information about routes in the area and what's best for the conditions when you want to go.

It's a great day out and they have children's seats available so you can take little ones too!  The area around Dunbar is a beautiful stretch of Scotland to explore and by bike means you get to enjoy it at your own pace.

The Brunton - Musselburgh

The Brunton is a thriving performing arts venue in Musselburgh that opened in 1971 and is still going strong.  They offer all sorts of entertainment including theatre, music, film screenings, children's shows, comedy and dance performances.

There's always something new happening, and they usually have events that are related to what's going on throughout the year too, like shows celebrating St Andrew's Day and Christmas pantomimes.

The Bistro at The Brunton is open throughout the day for brunch, lunch, coffee, and cake, and in the evening for meals as well, with special pre-theatre menus for some shows.

It's always worth checking to see what's happening when you're in the area!

East Lothian Walks

If you want some more outdoor active adventures, then East Lothian is the perfect place.  Known for its coastlines but also rural farming land dotted with various woods and forests, East Lothian has plenty of walking routes to explore and it's so easy to get to from Edinburgh. 

Carberry Hill

The woodlands around Carberry near Musselburgh make for a lovely walk, but they also hold historical significance for Scotland.  Carberry Hill was the site of the Battle of Carberry, which ended with Mary Queen of Scots dismounting her horse and surrendering on 15 June 1567.  There's a commemorative stone marking the event that you will find if you head towards the top of the hill.

Pressmennan Woods

A beautiful wooded area with a network of pathways and home to Pressmennan Lake.  There's lots of wildlife to be spotted and you may even be lucky enough to see an otter or a deer.  One path is especially fun for families, with sculptures in the trees and small doors that mark the homes of 'Glingbobs' and 'Tootflits'.   Our little one loved it!

Pencaitland Railway Walk

This is a shared cycle and walking route that runs along the former railway line.  It's a one-way track with car parks at both ends, one near Carberry Hill and the other near Saltoun Forest.  You can just walk part of it and return if you wish of course!  There are some information boards along the way that tell you about the history of the railway that began in 1867 and ran until 1965.

National Museum of Flight - East Fortune

We really can't stress how much we love visiting the National Museum of Flight, so it's amazing that it’s right on our doorstep!  It's located on the best-preserved WWII airfield in the UK at East Fortune, although its history stretches back to WWI as well.

Easily the most exciting exhibit for us is the Concorde Experience, where you can see one of the 17 remaining Concordes up close, as well as learn a lot more about this impressive feat of engineering.  You're able to go onto the plane itself and see right into the cockpit, and imagine what it might have been like to be one of those who made the transatlantic journey from Paris or London to New York in under 3 hours.

However, there's plenty of other exhibitions of interest as well.  Our two-year-old is a little plane obsessed, so he loved being surrounded by so many of one of his favourite things!  It's hard to imagine actually flying in some of the tiny planes in the Civil Aviation Hangar, and the development of the aircraft in the Military Aviation Hangar is impressive.

With several planes dotted across the airfield outside as well and a cafe offering plenty of refreshment options you can easily spend a day exploring and learning from the knowledgeable staff.

John Gray Centre - Haddington

Haddington is a lovely Scottish market town full of lots of independent shops and great places to eat, and it's well worth popping into the John Gray Centre while you're there too.

The John Gray Centre in Haddington aims to bring together information about the history of East Lothian, archaeology, archives, and other museum exhibits, alongside the local library.

The museum is FREE which is fantastic and offers both permanent and temporary exhibits.  Right now they have one about Discovering Ancient Egypt.  You can also join in with their archaeology events that take place throughout the year, including local digs and surveys.

East Lothian Beaches

East Lothian enjoys over 40 miles of coastline, and arguably some of the best beaches in Scotland.  Certainly the best close to the country's capital.  There are so many we haven't even come close to exploring them all, although we're certainly working on it!

These are a few of our favourites:

Gullane Bents

Backed by towering sand dunes, Gullane beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming.  It's an ideal beach for families with a large expanse of sand and generally calmer waters.

Milsey Bay - North Berwick

Located right in the town itself, and sporting a small pond built into rocks that holds the seawater when the tide is out, it's not hard to see why this is a very popular beach on a sunny day!  

You can easily pop into North Berwick and grab an ice cream from Alandas Gelateria, or a fish supper from North Berwick Fry, and then enjoy it back on the beach.

Seacliff

This beautiful beach has featured in both the Outlaw King and Mary Queen of Scots films, and is a great spot to explore the rock pools at either end of the beach, as well as for the views of Tantallon Castle.  A good beach for any weather!

Whitesands

Living up to its namesake with lovely white sand, this crescent beach is framed by a rocky shoreline and grasslands where there's plenty of room for picnics. Although we have had to resort to a picnic in the car thanks to the Scottish weather!

And special mention also goes to the Bridge to Nowhere, also known as Belhaven Bridge.  At high tide, it is completely surrounded by the sea and looks as though it's a bridge in the ocean with no purpose.  However, at low tide, there is a stream running underneath and the bridge allows you to cross over to visit the beach beyond.

John Muir Birthplace - Dunbar

John Muir may be famous throughout North America as the "Father of the National Parks" and his quotes about nature, like "The mountains are calling and I must go", are known worldwide.

But less well known are his humble beginnings in Dunbar, where he was born in 1838 and went to school, before moving to America at age 11.

He went on to become an inventor, author, geologist, and environmental campaigner, amongst other pursuits.  But he even said himself that his love of all things wild began when he was a boy in Scotland.

You can now learn more about his life in his place of birth, which has been transformed into a free museum (although donations are welcome of course).

The museum has three floors of interactive and family-friendly displays, is fully accessible and it also has a nature-themed museum shop that includes locally made and recycled items.

Flag Heritage Centre - Home of the Saltire

Did you know the Saltire flag is the oldest in Europe and even the Commonwealth, and that it first appeared in East Lothian?

At the battle at Athelstaneford in East Lothian in AD 832, King Angus was fighting against the Saxons when he feared defeat, and while leading prayers he saw a white cloud formation in the sky, of the saltire against a blue backdrop.  He recalled the legend of St Andrew who is said to have asked to be crucified on a diagonal cross and vowed that if they won he would make St Andrew the patron saint of Scotland.  And behold, the Scots won and St Andrew and the Saltire became synonymous with Scotland.

Now near the famed battle site, you can visit a doocot (a small building formerly used to house pigeons or doves) that has been transformed into a heritage centre for the Saltire flag.  It contains an audio-visual dramatisation of the above story, and you can also view the battlefield from there too.

East Links Family Park

We love visiting East Links Family Park!  It's the perfect spot for our animal and train obsessed little one since you can journey on a train around the whole park and see all of the animals within. Not to mention the go-karts, trampolines, mini diggers and tractors, crazy golf, and fortress complete with slides to explore.

It's so good to have a family-friendly adventure park like this in East Lothian, and we like to spend a day there, having lunch at one of the many picnic tables available too.

As you can see, East Lothian has an eclectic range of things to do for all sorts of different interests!  The outdoor opportunities are endless, and there are plenty of cultural and historic experiences to be found too.  So what are you going to do in East Lothian first?  

Always follow current guidelines, check specific arrangements and opening times with businesses, know before you go and #loveeastlothian.

The Burns Family East Lothian Connections

This Burns Night (25th January), as we stay safe and enjoy celebrating our national Bard at home we also celebrate Rabbie Burns connections with East Lothian.  While we cannot be sure if the man himself visited East Lothian, the family connections are still strong.  His brother Gilbert set up home here together with his mother Agnes and sister Annabella.

Gilbert Burns was Rabbie's younger brother.  The brothers worked together as tenant farmers and Gilbert helped with Rabbie's book sales.  Shortly after Rabbie's death in 1796, Gilbert and his large family moved to Morham in East Lothian.  Gilbert first worked as estate manager to Captain John Dunlop and then as factor to the Lennoxlove Estate.  The family took up residence at Grant's Brae on the Haddington to Bolton road.  The house has long gone but today you can visit a monument to Agnes near the location.  The inscription on 'Burns's Mother's Well' reads, "Drink of the pure crystals and not only be ye succoured but also refreshed in the mind. Agnes Broun, 1732 - 1820. To the mortal and immortal memory and in noble tribute to her, who not only gave a son to Scotland but to the whole world and whose own doctrines he preached to humanity that we might learn."

Gilbert, Agnes and Annabella are buried in Bolton Parish Kirkyard.  You can see the tombstone erected in memory of the family in the graveyard. 

As is often the case, Burn's mother had a strong influence on him.  Agnes learned songs, ballads and stories from her grandmother and passed them on to her children.  While she had basic reading skills she did not learn how to write!

You can find out more about the Burns family connections to East Lothian and Burns Supper clubs here in the archives at the John Gray Centre.  And if you are in any doubt as to the legacy of Rabbie Burns, check out this interactive Burns supper global map from the University of Glasgow Interactive Map of Burns Suppers.

Cook up The Perfect Burns Supper

It's haggis catching season, if you've not been fortunate enough to bag one for yourself this year don't worry, here in East Lothian we can help!

With Burns Night just around the corner, why not stock up on some essential foodie delights to celebrate.

East Lothian's Findlay's awarding winning haggis is made from an old recipe using only the finest ingredients, seasoning and oatmeal.  They also make gluten free, wild venison, vegetarian and Asian haggis to celebrate at home in style.

For everything to make the perfect main course, check out John Gilmour butcher's Chieftain Haggis, Neeps & Tatties Box - vegetarian option available.

If you fancy a three course feast, The Brand Family Burns Supper in A Bag has everything you need – starter, main and a pudding!

You could really push the boat out and round off your meal with cheese and oatcakes.  The Cheese Lady offers a fine selection to choose from.

Traditionally, your Burns Supper would be washed down with a wee dram and we would recommend East Lothian's Glenkinchie, the Edinburgh malt (a key component of Johnnie Walker Whiskies).  Or you could be a bit daring and shake things up with a Thistly Mac, Thistly Cross Cider's twist on the famous Whisky Mac and the perfect accompaniment!

Happy Burns Day from East Lothian! #staysafe #stayathome

Some hae meat an canna eat,

And some wad eat that want it;

But we hae meat, and we can eat,

Sae let the Lord be thankit.

                                                                          Selkirk Grace

The ultimate guide to autumn in East Lothian

Landscape and lifestyle photographer and blogger, Amelia shares her favourite autumn places in East Lothian and while she is unable to visit us at the moment, we hope that she will be able to when restrictions permit again soon.  We also hope that this will give you inspiration if you are planning your travels for next year or if you are local and are looking for new places to go!

Scotland is a place that I hold very close to my heart, and whilst I usually head for the hills, living just across the South East border has ignited my love of the rugged coastline, and the picture book villages that are scattered around the countryside.  Add in forests and woods that come alive during autumn and East Lothian is suddenly the ultimate location for a Scottish day trip.

This blog outlines my favourite spots for the ultimate autumn colours, the best place to grab breakfast and/or lunch, a stately home set in the most glorious grounds, and the most picture perfect little Scottish village.

Binning Wood

Binning Wood does have to be one of the most magical autumn locations I have stumbled upon so far.  Vast, with trails and tracks criss-crossing through it, come October through November, it is a riot of colour; yellows, oranges, reds and browns as far as the eye can see.  Popular with dog walkers, and actually a memorial wood, there are hours to be passed here, discovering the many and varied trees, shrubs and wildlife.  As well as taking as many photos of the autumn colours as you can, and crunching through piles of freshly fallen leaves!

Gosford House

As stately home grounds go, these have to be some of the most beautiful ones I have visited.  This is not a statement to be taken lightly, as I have visited my fair share of them all around the country!

The reason I fell in love with Gosford was the sheer variety of buildings, landscapes and trees.  From a pyramid shaped Mausoleum, to a picture perfect and teeny tiny stone cottage on the shores of a lake.  The house itself, is a stunning and sprawling building, complete with a walled garden and endless interiors to be discovered. Something to look forward to on my next visit.  Finding all of those quirky little buildings and hidden gems that were scattered all over the estate was just the icing on the cake.

The Loft Cafe and Bakery

An accidental find, tucked away behind the high street in Haddington. The Loft Cafe and Bakery was the perfect place to stop in and fuel up after a cold day exploring East Lothian.  Dog friendly, and serving a huge array of food that is all made on site, as well as ethically sourced coffee by Artisan roasters in Edinburgh.  There is nothing not to love here, next time I am coming in for breakfast!

 

Dirleton

Dirleton is a beautiful picturesque little village, nestled in the coastal countryside of East Lothian. Drenched in warm sun, and with the tail end of autumn just starting to fade away it was possibly the most beautiful morning for a wander and the perfect opportunity to give the dogs a leg stretch. Dirleton has enough charm to keep you pottering around for a few hours, and that is before you even visit the impressive castle! You'll not want to leave before stopping off at Almafi Ice Cream & Coffee Parlour – where Scotland meets Italy – here you can enjoy East Lothian's famous S. Luca ice cream!

 Please follow the current guidelines and #loveeastlothian responsibly.

Like us you will have experienced a very different way of working, shopping and playing during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Right now, we are all staying that bit closer to home and that means we can all take the time to explore our local area.  Read on for our 5 top tips on how you can enjoy East Lothian responsibly and help to support our local businesses.

1.

Book a staycation and rediscover what's right on your doorstep.   Miles and miles of stunning coast, rolling hills, top visitor attractions, exhilarating outdoor activities, intriguing heritage and culture and some of the world's best golf courses.  There is a super choice of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.  Whether you are looking for a self-catering hideaway, a family caravan or chalet, a cosy B&B, an exclusive use venue or a hotel, you will find it here.

2.

Eat out at a local bar, restaurant or café.  You're sure to find a warm East Lothian welcome and be treated to a great choice of locally produced food and drink.  From family friendly venues to romantic meals for two, East Lothian is a foodies paradise.  Make sure you sample seafood fresh from the boat, seasonal fruit and veg and scrumptious sweet treats. 

3.

Visit local attractions.  Why not try the National Museum of Flight and step on board Scotland's Concorde, the Scottish Seabird Centre where you can get up close to marine wildlife and the iconic Bass Rock? Or get yourself along to John Muir Country Park where you will find John Muir Alpacas and East Links Family Park for outdoor fun and your cute animal fix!  From castles to ancient forts and from outdoor thrills and spills to nature, there really is something to keep everyone entertained.

5.

Plan ahead.   Help us to help you by being organised and know before you go.  Check current guidelines, avoid more popular spots, discover hidden gems, respect local communities and book in advance.

We hope you will enjoy your East Lothian, Edinburgh's Coast & Countryside.  Follow our 5 top tips and #loveeastlothian now!