Things to do & places to visit in East Lothian, United Kingdom

East Lothian #75 destination in United Kingdom 2023. The average rating score is 4.65 based on 8.544 traveler reviews, of 30 attractions. Timezone: Europe/London, current date and time: Monday, May 06, 2024, 9:31.

Top things to do (23)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Glenkinchie Distillery (1.454 reviews)
- First Class Flavour and Cask Tour
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

Glenkinchie proudly serves as one of the Four Corners distilleries of Johnnie Walker. We distil the Edinburgh Malt that is enjoyed around the world on its own and as a vital component of Johnnie Walker whiskies. Discover the generous spirit of our garden home where we create our rare Lowland style whisky, evoking fragrant flowers, dried cut grass, and nutty cereal. To ensure the health and wellbeing of our employees and visitors, we will be implementing a number of precautionary measures. Find out how we are keeping you safe on our website before you visit us. We look forward to welcoming you at Glenkinchie, the Lowland Home of Johnnie Walker. See more..
5.0 John Muir Alpacas (205 reviews)
- Wonderful
Spent 1-2 hours Hiking Trails

John Muir Alpacas is an exciting new trekking and tourism business close to John Muir Country Park and the John Muir Way in Dunbar. See more..
5.0 Gullane Beach (173 reviews)
- What a gem!
Beaches

We spent a few days in Gullane and walked to the beach several times, swam and thoroughly enjoyed everything about it. The sand was beautifully soft and clean. Ring August Bank Holiday it was understandably a bit busy in the car park and around the end of the path to the beach but it was easy to walk away from the busy area. The water was clean and calm and seemed very safe. A local seagull was most obliging giving me my best photo of the summer after he caught a crab for his lunch. Would love to return, soon. See more..
5.0 Bass Rock (162 reviews)
- Three Island Boat Trip
Spent 1-2 hours Islands

We went on the Three Island Trip with the Scottish Seabird Centre , had a fab time . Felt very ‘Covid safe ‘ , tour guide was so enthusiastic about the bird life . Would recommend you book early in your trip in case the weather is bad and you have to rearrange the date of your boat trip . See more..
5.0 North Berwick Law (153 reviews)
- Early morning walk in the rain!
Mountains

Me and friend were staying in the area and decided to get up early to walk up here and see the sunrise, however the weather had different plans. Because of the heavy rain there wasnt much of a sunrise but we walked regardless and the short but steep climb was worth it. The rain eased off once we reached the top so the sky cleared enough for us to see the views of the distant islands including Bass Rock and overlooking North Berwick town. Easy to find, plenty of free parking and an easy path to follow up. I will return here with my children as they would like the climb and the views at the top. See more..
5.0 Belhaven Brewery (145 reviews)
- Not to be missed
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Breweries

Highly recommended. Thank you Chris for an amazing start to our visit to sunny Dunbar. Lot of laughs and interaction with the group made this soooo much more interesting than just reading information boards ourselves. Excellent value for money with the dedicated tour guide who took the time to get to know the group and their tastes so he could recommend what to try - and you get lots of beer samples in the bar too and lots of chat. And who knew there was a garden too! I hope you go ahead with BBQ nights - a fab addition. See more..
5.0 NB Distillery (82 reviews)
- Excellent visit!
Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

A family owned distillery that produces multi award winning NB Gin and NB Vodka. Anchored in the beautiful coastal town of North Berwick, on the east coast of Scotland, NB Distillery offers a unique and luxury visitor experience to learn, sample and relax on our fabulous Ginspiration Tours or just pop by to visit the distillery, see the majestic copper stills and buy at great prices from the Cellar Door Shop. Awarded 5 Stars by Visit Scotland. NB Gin is the perfect, 'no-nonsense' gin. Expertly balanced, clean, fresh and wonderfully smooth. It was voted World's Best London Dry Gin in 2015, selected by the Royal Family on two monumental occasions and served at the Brit Awards for three consecutive years. Just some of our amazing success stories. Join us on our fabulous Ginspiration Tour where you will be warmly welcomed with a G&T, a tour of the distillery and a ‘flight’ of a further 4 drinks in our luxury tasting lounge. We offer bespoke tours and private tour bookings for large groups See more..
5.0 Winton Castle (69 reviews)
- A Hidden Gem Staffed by Wonderful People
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Castles

Winton lands predate the Magna Carta; and the Setons built the House before Leonardo da Vinci established his reputation. Their architect, the King's Master Mason, didn't work on ordinary castles! His carved, twisted chimneys still herald the palace within and his ornate plaster ceilings are the most elaborate in Scotland. A Castle for Hire with a Warm Welcome Winton House remains a private house, but one which is available for hire for a wide variety of functions. It has architectural grandeur and history, but is not aloof or austere; you are welcomed warmly as a guest into a home (mine!). Corporate Events with a Twist Winton House can be exclusively yours for memorable corporate events, gala dinners, incentive events, private parties and special celebrations. The House's interconnecting reception rooms are ideally laid out for conferences and meetings. A Wedding Venue with Real Romance For a truly Scottish wedding, Winton is one of the most romantic wedding venues in the country and will make your big day a memorable one. Look no further if you're considering country house or castle wedding venues! If you're looking to develop your management team's performance and collaborative skills then we can offer a range of interesting and innovative events, including: 4x4 driving; Archery; Clay Pigeon Shooting; Falconry; Golf (East Lothian has some of the finest courses in Scotland); The Winton Highland Games; Hovercraft driving; Whisky tasting; and Wine and Champagne tasting. See more..
5.0 Coastal Communities Museum (68 reviews)
- A small excellent museum covering the history of the coastal area.
Monday: Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

Come and visit our fascinating local museum located in the seaside town of North Berwick. We’re run entirely by enthusiastic volunteers and our aim is to enable locals and visitors to explore the culture and heritage of the coastal communities that make up East Lothian’s North Berwick coastal ward – North Berwick, Dirleton, Gullane, Aberlady and Whitekirk plus the smaller inland hamlets. It’s free to enter (donations appreciated), you’ll get a warm friendly welcome and there’s lots to discover for all ages. See more..
5.0 Thorntonloch Beach (21 reviews)
- Wow
Beaches

My 3rd time visiting this beach and I still love it! The views, nature and the sand are beautiful. Well worth a visit. See more..
5.0 John Muir Alpacas (205 reviews)
- Wonderful
Spent 1-2 hours Hiking Trails

John Muir Alpacas is an exciting new trekking and tourism business close to John Muir Country Park and the John Muir Way in Dunbar. See more..
5.0 Gullane Beach (173 reviews)
- What a gem!
Beaches

We spent a few days in Gullane and walked to the beach several times, swam and thoroughly enjoyed everything about it. The sand was beautifully soft and clean. Ring August Bank Holiday it was understandably a bit busy in the car park and around the end of the path to the beach but it was easy to walk away from the busy area. The water was clean and calm and seemed very safe. A local seagull was most obliging giving me my best photo of the summer after he caught a crab for his lunch. Would love to return, soon. See more..
5.0 Bass Rock (162 reviews)
- Three Island Boat Trip
Spent 1-2 hours Islands

We went on the Three Island Trip with the Scottish Seabird Centre , had a fab time . Felt very ‘Covid safe ‘ , tour guide was so enthusiastic about the bird life . Would recommend you book early in your trip in case the weather is bad and you have to rearrange the date of your boat trip . See more..
5.0 North Berwick Law (153 reviews)
- Early morning walk in the rain!
Mountains

Me and friend were staying in the area and decided to get up early to walk up here and see the sunrise, however the weather had different plans. Because of the heavy rain there wasnt much of a sunrise but we walked regardless and the short but steep climb was worth it. The rain eased off once we reached the top so the sky cleared enough for us to see the views of the distant islands including Bass Rock and overlooking North Berwick town. Easy to find, plenty of free parking and an easy path to follow up. I will return here with my children as they would like the climb and the views at the top. See more..
5.0 Belhaven Brewery (145 reviews)
- Not to be missed
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Breweries

Highly recommended. Thank you Chris for an amazing start to our visit to sunny Dunbar. Lot of laughs and interaction with the group made this soooo much more interesting than just reading information boards ourselves. Excellent value for money with the dedicated tour guide who took the time to get to know the group and their tastes so he could recommend what to try - and you get lots of beer samples in the bar too and lots of chat. And who knew there was a garden too! I hope you go ahead with BBQ nights - a fab addition. See more..
5.0 NB Distillery (82 reviews)
- Excellent visit!
Monday: Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries

A family owned distillery that produces multi award winning NB Gin and NB Vodka. Anchored in the beautiful coastal town of North Berwick, on the east coast of Scotland, NB Distillery offers a unique and luxury visitor experience to learn, sample and relax on our fabulous Ginspiration Tours or just pop by to visit the distillery, see the majestic copper stills and buy at great prices from the Cellar Door Shop. Awarded 5 Stars by Visit Scotland. NB Gin is the perfect, 'no-nonsense' gin. Expertly balanced, clean, fresh and wonderfully smooth. It was voted World's Best London Dry Gin in 2015, selected by the Royal Family on two monumental occasions and served at the Brit Awards for three consecutive years. Just some of our amazing success stories. Join us on our fabulous Ginspiration Tour where you will be warmly welcomed with a G&T, a tour of the distillery and a ‘flight’ of a further 4 drinks in our luxury tasting lounge. We offer bespoke tours and private tour bookings for large groups See more..
4.5 National Museum of Flight (1.125 reviews)
- Great air museum
Monday: Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums • Speciality Museums • History Museums

Discover a world-class collection of aircraft and hear the fascinating stories of the people who built and flew them at one of Scotland’s top attractions. Learn about the history of aviation from the First World War to the present day and immerse yourself in our interactive galleries and supersonic experiences. Get on board Scotland’s Concorde to discover what transatlantic flight was like for its passengers and crew and learn more about its supersonic legacy. Have a go on more than 25 hands-on interactives in our family-friendly Fantastic Flight gallery, then round off your day with a visit to our shop and cafe, or bring your own picnic to enjoy in our outdoor picnic area. Book online at nms.ac.uk/flight See more..
4.5 Scottish Seabird Centre (1.039 reviews)
- Well worth a visit!
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Enjoy great days out at the seaside with the five-star Scottish Seabird Centre, an education and conservation charity based in the beautiful coastal town of North Berwick. With incredible views of the Bass Rock, the world’s largest Northern gannet colony and the Isle of May the biggest puffin colony on the east coast of Britain, there is different wildlife to see throughout the year and at different stages of the breeding season. The all new Discovery Experience tells the story of Scotlands incredible marine wildlife and habitats through exhibits, games, and interactive live cameras on the Bass Rock and surrounding local islands. The Seabird Cafe, has amazing coastal views and one of East Lothian’s only seaside sundeck, and the Seabird giftshop is full of sustainable gifts and books. Well behaved dogs are also welcome in the Centre.Please visit our website for more information on all thats on offer and booking details. See more..
4.5 Tantallon Castle (923 reviews)
- Wonderful Tantallon
Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites • Castles

There is currently no visitor access to the castle building or Doocot due to precautionary access restrictions while we undertake high level masonry inspections. The castle grounds and the shop are open. Set on the edge of the cliffs, looking out to the Bass Rock, this formidable castle was a stronghold of the Douglas family. Ascend Tantallon’s towers for spectacular views of the Bass Rock and to watch gannets plunge into the North Sea. Then descend into the depths of a particularly grim pit prison. The castle was home to the powerful Red Douglas dynasty, which often clashed with the Crown. It was besieged by both James IV and James V but was ultimately destroyed by Oliver Cromwell’s troops in a siege of 1651. Many artefacts are displayed to help tell its dramatic stories. See more..
4.5 East Links Family Park (585 reviews)
- Lovely day out
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks

East Links Family Park is a farm themed activity park that brings out the child in all ages! Discover a delightful world of endearing farm animals by enjoying a train safari through the paddocks or getting up close in the small animal barn. You can also take a leisurely walk round and the information boards will tell you all about the animals you can see. If the kids feel like a change – there is LOTS for them to do. The three level Fortress is an adventure itself with over 15 different activities including a massive four lane slide, climbing frames, rat tunnels and climbing nets. For the smaller children there’s a soft play area, and the older more adventurous can enjoy go-karts, trampolines, jelly belly, ball blast arena, hay barn with climbing walls and expend their excess energy in just having fun! Enjoy being spoiled in the Family Park’s John Muir Café or in fine weather, pack a picnic. Whatever your age, you will be totally involved in PLEASURE!! Book tickets via eventbrite See more..
4.5 Dirleton Castle (417 reviews)
- A PLEASANT AFTERNOON OUT
Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Castles

The gardens, exhibition and shop are open. The castle remains closed. Booking in advance is recommended to guarantee entry. A romantic castle often in the forefront of Scottish history since it was built in the 12th century. The renowned gardens include an Arts and Crafts herbaceous border and Victorian garden. The herbaceous border has been authenticated by the Guinness Book of Records as the world's longest. See more..
4.5 Yellowcraig Beach (239 reviews)
- Amazing
Beaches

The views are unreal, calm seas for paddle boarding. Great for walking the dog . Camped on the beach for two nights with kids and Mrs the last two nights weather roasting , really worth the drive. Absolutely stunning place. However got two parking tickets even thou I had paid both days. You're ticket is only valid until 18 30, so each morning I had a ticket. £30. If you pay within 14 days. £60 if u leave it to after then. Joke. Will definitely contest it. But it won't stop me from going back. Hidden gem.. Also. They don't like family tents. 3 or 4 man tent's referred by the daily morning park/beach rangers. See more..
4.5 Victoria Harbour (230 reviews)
- Stunning!
Bodies of Water

Dunbar Harbour or Victoria harbour is so stunningly beautiful with breathtaking panoramic views. Here you will also find the ruins of Dunbar castle where Mary Queen of Scots visited, bass rock in the distance, fishing boats, rock pools and a small beach. There is a fantastic swimming pool nearby and public toilets and If your coming from Edinburgh, its around 1hr 20 mins on the X7 and perfect for a day trip with the kids. See more..
4.5 John Muir's Birthplace (214 reviews)
- National Parks Hero
Monday: Points of Interest & Landmarks

Interesting and friendly little museum full of fairly amazing facts about this fascinating man that did so much for the environment and the preservation of the natural world. The museum is free, small but packed with easily digestible information that make it well worth the visit. It's well laid out so never boring, interactive and with a lot of visual stuff that makes it well worth the visit. Take your time and don't miss it See more..
4.5 Musselburgh Racecourse (198 reviews)
- First Visit for over 35 years.
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Horse Tracks

Musselburgh Racecourse is a Visit Scotland 5 Star venue and named one of their top-rated visitor attractions offering fantastic value days out for all ages. With 27 race meetings a year there is always something to look forward whether you are looking for our Sell out Ladies Day, or great value Family days, with loads of free entertainment for children or the perfect stag or hen night at our Party Nights! We can offer a choice or places to eat and drink at the racecourse catering for all budgets. See more..
4.5 Newhailes House & Gardens (182 reviews)
- Diane - the best tour guide in the industry!
Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings

Newhailes is a stunning estate, complete with a Palladian mansion, woodland walks and our recently renovated Stables Café – there is something for all the family to enjoy. With its rococo interiors, Italian marble fireplaces, Chinese sitting room and impressive fine art collection, Newhailes House has always been a place of innovation and creativity. As you take a relaxing stroll through our grounds, see what wildlife you can spot as you pass the Shell Grotto, Tea House and Ladies’ Walk. Don’t forget to look out for our apiaries and wave hello to our fantastic volunteers in the allotments. For younger adventurers, our playpark is designed for children aged 3–12. We’ve extended it for 2022, adding new swings, a seesaw and a roundabout. A fun-filled day of exploring for all the family can be rounded off with an ice cream from The Dairy. See more..
4.5 Belhaven Beach (171 reviews)
- Favourite East Lothian Beach
Beaches

This has to be my favourite beach in East Lothian. With plenty of parking, public toilets, a shower (if you are going swimming), unspoilt scenery and a variety of flora and fauna you'll be hard pushed to find somewhere more special. The dunes offer a little shelter on a windy day and if you like variety from your walks, there's marshland and forest to boot. If you head there midweek you will most likely be lucky enough to get most of the beach to yourself. Weekends can be busy, but the beach is huge! Great place to take pups midweek for training as there's miles of sand. Parking is charged at £2.00 for the day but there's no complaints about this from me as the beach is well taken care of! See more..
4.5 Seacliff Beach (160 reviews)
- Stunningly beautiful beach
Beaches

Stunningly beautiful beach... Back end of a lovely day wended our way here and even though we lost the sun it was a magical place. Wandered to the NW end of the beach where amongst the rocks you come across what is reputedly the smallest stone harbour in the country, carved by monks. Clambered the rocks and then sat and watched the birds from Bass Rock. Incredible views of Tantallon Castle too. Journey down by car is a bit of a trek, tight single lane road, not the best quality! £3 parking fee - toll bar as you enter, well worth the price. See more..
4.5 Preston Mill & Phantassie Doocot Mill (103 reviews)
- The 'wow' factor starts from the car park...
History Museums

You know a place has left it's mark when you're still thinking about it hours later. This place is steeped in so much history, for the neighbourhood, the industry and the mill families involved. The place itself is so quirky, it looks like it was created for a film set. A back drop to a scene in Harry Potter or something along that vein. But pop by the visitor centre, peruse the story boards and book on a tour with Fraser to hear the place come alive and understand the impact such tiny establishment had on the lives of those who depended upon it. Build in time to stock up on lovely bits and pieces at the shop, marvel at the working water wheel, walk the adjoining field and visit the doocot too. It's the last of it's kind, so please keep visiting to show your support and ensure the mill is around for hundreds of years to come. See more..
4.5 Hailes Castle (100 reviews)
- Romantic castle - well worth a visit & it's free!
Castles

Small, but very well preserved castle folded into the hills by the river Tyne. So, tucked away it is almost impossible to see until you are right above it. Good for picnic-ing and wandering. Walk across the river and bear left to Haddington, a 100 metres or so and you get to see the castle from across the over. Or take a 1/4 mile walk up the hill to Overhailes farm, turn and look back on the castle and Traprain Law See more..