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Fun-filled Summer Family Activities in East Lothian

July 17, 2024

Summer holidays are perfect for creating lasting memories with your kids, and East Lothian offers a wealth of activities to keep everyone entertained. Here are just some of the ways you can enjoy the summer in East Lothian.

A day at the beach

Pack a picnic and head to the seaside, the perfect way to soak up the summer sun and enjoy the stunning coastline. Gullane Beach, with its golden sands and clear waters, is a family favourite where kids can build sandcastles, play games or splash around in the gentle waves. Nearby Yellowcraig Beach offers breathtaking views of Fidra Island and is ideal for rock pooling and kite flying. Children will love the adventure playpark with climbing frames, slides and swings. End your day at the beach in traditional style with some of the best fish and chips around.

Know before you go and download the free Visit East Lothian App to get up to date information on parking at coastal car parks and more. Down the App at the App Store or Google Play.

Enchanted experiences

Step into a magical world at Archerfield Walled Garden where the Fairy Trail delights both children and adults. Wander through the woodland discovering fairy houses and sculptures. The garden also features a charming café and gift shop, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day out. Or follow the trail through Pressmennan Wood, home to the elusive Glingbobs and Tootflits. See if you can find their houses, remember to look high and low!

Seasonal sporting fun

Enjoy a relaxing game of pitch and putt – there are courses at East Links and West Links in North Berwick, and Fisherrow Links in Musselburgh. With well-maintained greens and stunning views, it’s a delightful way to spend a few hours on a summer day.

Take to the water

For adventure seekers, Foxlake Adventures is a must-visit. Offering a range of water-based activities, including wakeboarding, exhilarating ringo rides, the FoxFall ropes course, and giant inflatable aqua park, this is a fun and challenging experience for all ages. This summer, they have teamed up with Ocean Vertical bringing you the ultimate adventure camp including paddleboarding, coasteering and archery/axe throwing, open to all 8-12 year olds. Onlookers can take in the spectacle from dry land with a drink or bite to eat from the on-site café, Jay Birds Larder.

Animal magic

Experience something extraordinary by taking an alpaca for a walk through picturesque woodland at John Muir Alpacas. Mini treks are available for families with younger children, and you can bring a picnic to eat alongside your furry friend. For a farm-themed day out, East Links Family Park has over 20 acres to explore. Ride the train safari, feed farm animals, try crazy golf, or climb the multi-level fortress. There’s something for everyone.

Fascinating history

Rainy days are covered too! East Lothian’s museums offer exciting discoveries and adventures for all the family, with some providing free entry.

At the John Gray Centre Museum in Haddington, history comes to life with hands-on exhibits and fascinating displays about East Lothian’s rich heritage.

Dunbar Townhouse Museum & Gallery reveals the secrets of this ancient town. Enhance your visit with a guided tour to see the council chamber and old jail cell.

The Coastal Communities Museum in North Berwick focuses on life by the sea. Discover the mysteries of the ocean, learn about shipwrecks, and see amazing fossils and sea creatures. Kids can dress up as pirates or princesses.

Musselburgh Museum lets you journey through time to discover how people lived, worked and played in the historic ‘Honest Toun’.

At John Muir’s Birthplace, learn about the famous Scot who continues to inspire and inform actions on climate change and conservation a century later.

Prestongrange Museum offers insights into working in a Victorian coal mine or brickworks, with giant machines including a pit head winding gear and Cornish beam engine. You can book a tour of the newly opened Engine Shed and see some of the locomotives, rolling stock and other artefacts.

Explore a garden

East Lothian boasts some of Scotland’s, most beautiful gardens, perfect for family outings. Discover Newhailes House & Gardens, a grand estate with beautifully landscaped grounds. Take a guided tour of the historic house, wander through the elegant gardens, and let the kids enjoy Weehailes playpark. Inveresk Lodge Gardens is a peaceful retreat featuring delightful walled gardens, lush green lawns, and vibrant flowers. Kids will love spotting butterflies and birds among the colourful plant life.

Enjoy delicious ice cream

No summer day is complete without an ice cream, and East Lothian has some of the best spots to indulge in a sweet treat. Alandas in North Berwick is renowned for its multi award-winning gelatos and sorbets with creamy texture and rich flavours. In Musselburgh, Luca’s is a beloved local institution serving up classic flavours and inventive new creations, sure to satisfy every ice cream craving.