East Lothian on Screen
East Lothian's rural scenery, golden beaches and historic buildings, combined with its close proximity to Edinburgh and ease of access for production crews, have made it a popular filming location.
Over the years, the region has enjoyed a starring role in numerous film and television productions, from period dramas and sci-fi adventures to ghost stories and children's programmes. As 'set-jetting' continues to grow in popularity, more visitors are seeking out the locations featured in their favourite films and TV shows.
To help you discover these iconic locations, we've created a film map highlighting some of East Lothian's best-known on-screen appearances.
Academy Award-winning director Guillermo del Toro brings Mary Shelley's classic tale to life in this visually stunning Netflix adaptation, starring Oscar Isaac, Mia Goth and Jacob Elordi. The film follows scientist Victor Frankenstein's quest to conquer death, leading to the creation of a tragic monster whose search for acceptance ultimately turns to vengeance.
East Lothian features prominently in the production, with Gosford House appearing as the Frankenstein family estate and Seacliff Beach providing the setting for one of the monster's key scenes.
The film received nine nominations at the 98th Academy Awards, winning Oscars for Best Production Design, Best Costume Design and Best Makeup and Hairstyling.
Outlander is the hugely popular television drama based on Diana Gabaldon's bestselling novels, starring Sam Heughan, Caitríona Balfe and Duncan Lacroix. The series follows Claire Randall, a Second World War nurse who is mysteriously transported from 1945 to 18th-century Scotland, where she becomes embroiled in the Jacobite cause and falls in love with Highland warrior Jamie Fraser.
East Lothian has featured prominently throughout the series, with filming taking place at Newhailes House & Gardens, Preston Mill, Ravenheugh Sands & The Mart Farm Shop & Café. Fans can visit these locations and follow in the footsteps of some of the show's most memorable characters and scenes.
The Jacobite story is central to Outlander, and one of the most significant events featured in the series is the Battle of Prestonpans, fought in East Lothian in 1745. Visitors can learn more about this pivotal moment in Scottish history at the Battle of Prestonpans Museum and battlefield site and, on selected dates, experience dramatic battle re-enactments that bring the story to life.
Mary Queen of Scots is a 2018 historical drama starring Saoirse Ronan, Margot Robbie and Jack Lowden. The film tells the story of Mary Stuart's struggle to reclaim her throne and the rivalry with her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I of England. A tale of power, betrayal, rebellion and intrigue, it culminates in Mary's imprisonment and execution. Parts of the film were shot at Seacliff Beach, near North Berwick.
Mary Queen of Scots has many connections to East Lothian. In 1567, James Hepburn, 4th Earl of Bothwell, entertained Mary at Hailes Castle. Dunbar Castle was later dismantled because of its association with Bothwell and the Queen. Visitors can see the Death Mask of Mary Queen of Scots at Lennoxlove House, just outside Haddington.
It is also claimed that Mary played golf at Musselburgh Links in 1567. At the John Gray Centre in Haddington, visitors can view artefacts connected to her life, including a document signed by Mary and King Henry Stuart (Lord Darnley), along with a grant of church land to the Burgh of Haddington bearing an excellent example of her Great Seal.
Another significant location is Carberry Hill, where Mary surrendered to the Confederate Lords in 1567 before her imprisonment. Follow the signposted walking route to explore this historic site and climb to Queen Mary's Mount, where panoramic views provide a fitting backdrop to one of Scotland's most dramatic historical events. To help you explore the area, you can download the Carberry Hill Map.
The Buccaneers is a period drama inspired by Edith Wharton's unfinished final novel. The series follows a group of wealthy young American women who travel to London in the 1870s in search of love, adventure and a place within British high society.
Filmed entirely in Scotland, the production made extensive use of East Lothian's stunning locations. Gosford House, Aberlady, Seacliff Beach, North Berwick and Newhailes House and Gardens all feature on screen, providing the perfect backdrop to this lavish tale of romance, ambition and aristocratic life.
