North Berwick

North Berwick is a vibrant coastal town with beautiful beaches, a charming harbour, an eclectic mix of shops, cafes, restaurants and  bars, as well as world-renowned golf courses.

North Berwick became one of Scotland's most fashionable seaside resorts in the 19th century, when the arrival of the railway brought holidaymakers seeking the healthy climate of the 'Biarritz of the North'. It remains a popular destination today. Just 20miles (32km) from Edinburgh, or around 30 minutes by train, North Berwick offers striking views across the Firth of Forth to the Bass Rock, the world’s largest northern gannet colony. As well as the Bass Rock, visitors can enjoy views of Fidra, Lamb and Craigleith islands. Fidra is widely believed to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s famous novel Treasure Island.

The town is also closely associated with the North Berwick Witch Trials of 1590, one of the most significant episodes of witchcraft persecution in Scotland. Local people were accused of using witchcraft to raise storms that disrupted the voyage of King James VI and his bride, Anne of Denmark. During the persecution that followed, more than 100 people were accused of witchcraft, with many facing imprisonment, torture and execution. Today, this chapter of North Berwick's history offers a fascinating insight into Scotland's past.

Parking Information: From 1 June 2026, parking charges apply in North Berwick town centre. Free parking remains available outside the charging zones, including at Recreation Park.  Download the full parking leaflet for details on zones, charges and car parks).