North Berwick

North Berwick is a vibrant and scenic harbour town, boasting great beaches, and an eclectic mix of shops, cafes and bars, not to mention world-renowned golf courses.

North Berwick became a very stylish holiday resort in the 19th century when the railway brought holiday makers to enjoy the healthy climate of the 'Biarritz of the North'! It remains popular with visitors today. Only 20miles (32km) or a 30 minute train journey from Edinburgh, North Berwick offers striking views out to the Firth of Forth and the Bass Rock, the world’s largest Northern gannet colony. As well as the Bass Rock there are views to Fidra, Lamb and Craigleith islands; Fidra is the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s adventure Treasure Island.

One of the first witchcraft trials in Scotland took place in North Berwick in 1590 when local people were accused of causing a storm that delayed a ship carrying King James V1 and his bride from Denmark. The persecution lasted for two years. Over one hundred people were arrested on suspicion of witchcraft, allegedly holding their covens on the Auld Kirk Green at the harbour. Many confessed under horrific torture and met horrible ends.

A jam-packed events programme provides year-round entertainment with highlights including the North Berwick Highland Games and Fringe by the Sea.