East Lothian

Scotland > Central Scotland > East Lothian

East Lothian is a mix of sandy seashores, rich red agricultural soil, woodlands and rivers flowing down from the Lammermuir Hills through picturesque little villages. In Pencaitland, Winton House is a prime example of a 15th century tower house with magnificent ceilings.

Golf reigns supreme in East Lothian - the golfer has a choice of 19 courses in all, of which 13 are links and 6 parkland. These include famous golfing names such as Muirfield (an Open Championship Golf Course), Old Musselburgh and Gullane. Watch out in 2004 for the arrival of a new course, Archerfield.

Dirleton Castle near to North Berwick dates back to the 12th century. The Royal Burgh of North Berwick overlooks the Bass Rock with its huge range of seabirds. The Scottish Seabird Centre at the harbour is a great place to learn about local ornithology (and also has its own web cams). During spring and summer, trips to the bird sanctuary of Bass Rock are available.

Tantallon Castle, an imposing 14th century castle ruin, was once a stronghold of the Douglases. Further down the coast lies Dunbar, once a favourite hiding place of Mary Queen of Scots. It is, now, a popular holiday resort with attractions such as the Town House Museum and East Links Farm Park.

Into the Lammermuir Hills, there are many small villages like Gifford with its 18th century church (and the Goblin Ha' - a sanctuary for travellers for many, many years!) and Mercat Cross. This is rich agricultural land and farms are well maintained and very productive, evident at the monthly farmers market in Haddington. Formerly the county town, Haddington has over 200 listed buildings including St Mary's Collegiate Church dating back to the 14th century.

Just south of the town lies Lennoxlove House, home of the Duke of Hamilton, which exhibits a death mask of Mary Queen of Scots. Nearby, East Fortune Airfield, houses the National Museum of Flight and at Pencaitland, Glenkinchie Distillery offers guided tours.

Access to East Lothian is simple. From the south, the A1 passes Dunbar and Haddington en route to Edinburgh. The coastal route from Edinburgh (A198) is recommended. Rail travel is also an option with a main east coast station in Dunbar. Nearest airport is Edinburgh where plenty of car hire is available.