East Lothian
East Lothian
East Lothian, an often-missed gem in Scotland, is a county that offers an astonishing blend of idyllic landscapes, charming towns, and a wide array of sightseeing opportunities. Often called the ‘Garden of Scotland’ due to its fertile farmland, East Lothian is situated to the east of Edinburgh, extending along the southern shore of the Firth of Forth before arcing south to the Scottish Borders.
The landscape of East Lothian is truly awe-inspiring. The county is known for a number of natural wonders such as the Lammermuir Hills – an enormous range of moorland-covered hills, and mile after mile of golden sand beaches that provide the perfect place for a quiet walk or a day of family fun.
East Lothian is home to several quaint towns and villages, but there are three that are perhaps best suited for tourists. Haddington, the county town, is known for its beautiful countryside and historic architecture, as well as a superb walking trail that follows the meandering waters of the River Tyne.
North Berwick, meanwhile, is a charming seaside town that’s a popular destination for its beaches, the Scottish Seabird Centre, and the splendid views of Bass Rock. Dunbar, the birthplace of naturalist John Muir, is another lovely coastal town boasting stunning sea views, an attractive fishing harbour, and the ruins of one of Scotland’s oldest castles.
Wildlife is abundant in East Lothian, with a wealth of bird species making the region a paradise for birdwatchers. The Bass Rock, visible from North Berwick, is home to the world’s largest colony of Northern gannets, while Aberlady Bay – a designated Local Nature Reserve – is home to a variety of wading birds.
Tantallon Castle, a semi-ruined clifftop fortress dominated by Scotland’s oldest curtain wall, offers a fascinating insight into the country’s turbulent past, and the National Museum of Flight, located at East Fortune Airfield, allows visitors to explore Scotland’s aviation history.
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Seacliff Beach Visitor Guide
Seacliff Beach is situated 5 miles south of North Berwick in East Lothian. This remote beach is overlooked by the dramatic ruins of Tantallon Castle and is best known for its unusual sandstone harbour which is said to be the smallest in the UK.
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Seton Collegiate Church Visitor Guide
Sitting in immaculately manicured gardens, Seton Collegiate Church is a 4-star historic tourist attraction managed by Historic Environment Scotland. The church is located near Prestonpans in East Lothian and can be accessed from the A198, 2 miles (3.22 km) west of Longniddry.
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Tantallon Castle Visitor Guide
Tantallon Castle is a red sandstone fortification dating from the 1300s which overlooks the beautiful coastline near North Berwick in East Lothian. It is one of the oldest examples of a curtain wall castle in Scotland and is one of the top historic tourist attractions in the southeast of the country. Discover Tantallon Castle with…
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The Best Things to Do in East Lothian
East Lothian is far and away one of the best places to visit in the south of Scotland for a day trip. The county bathes in an above-average number of sunshine hours, sees fewer days of rain than many other parts of Scotland, and is close enough to Edinburgh that visiting the capital city is…
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The Best Things to Do in East Lothian for Families
East Lothian is an often-overlooked county in Scotland that offers visitors a combination of open countryside, golden beaches, dense woodlands and some of the best nature reserves in the country. Discover the best family attractions in East Lothian with this guide which features an overview of the top places to visit alongside 360° virtual tours.
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The Best Things to Do in North Berwick for Families
North Berwick boasts golden beaches to the east and west, it has an eclectic mix of shops and cafés in the high street, and it is surrounded by attractions including North Berwick Law and Tantallon Castle. Discover this attractive East Lothian town with this complete guide to the best family attractions in North Berwick which…
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Torness Point Visitor Guide
Torness power station is situated on the coast near the town of Dunbar in East Lothian. As well as having a 5-star awarded visitor centre which gives free tours to visitors, Torness has a superb 4-mile coastal footpath that runs along the coastline between Thorntonloch beach to the south and Barns Ness Lighthouse to the…
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Traprain Law Visitor Guide
Whether you’re a history buff or simply love exploring the great outdoors, Traprain Law is a must-visit destination in East Lothian. Located about 20 miles east of Edinburgh, Traprain Law is a hill that rises 221 metres (724 feet) above sea level, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Though it served as an Iron…
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Whiteadder Reservoir Visitor Guide
Whiteadder Reservoir is situated deep within the heart of the Lammermuir Hills in East Lothian. The reservoir was created as an additional source of drinking water for the county but after work was completed in 1968 it become a haven for wildlife as well as a popular location for fishing and water sports. One of…
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Woodhall Dean Visitor Guide
Woodhall Dean Nature Reserve in East Lothian is situated to the north-east of the Lammermuir Hills. The reserve comprises mixed woodland which surrounds a deep gorge that opens up onto rolling fields. In spring, Woodhall Dean is awash with bluebells and primroses, while buzzards, sparrowhawks, and tawny owls can be seen throughout the year.
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Yellowcraig Beach Visitor Guide
Yellowcraig (also known as Broadsands Bay) is a natural cove beach with spectacular views of the 1885 lighthouse on Fidra Island which was the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s famous tale Treasure Island. Discover this stunning East Lothian beach with this ultimate visitor guide.
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Yester Castle Visitor Guide
Nestled amidst the rolling fields of East Lothian lies a historic gem that begs exploration – Yester Castle and the Goblin Ha. The once-mighty Yester Castle, now a picturesque ruin, was built in the 13th century by Sir Hugo de Giffard, guardian of Alexander III of Scotland and a reputed warlock and necromancer. In this…
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