Discover North Berwick
On the south shore of the Firth of Forth, approximately 25 miles northeast of Edinburgh, sits the picturesque seaside town of North Berwick. With its golden sandy beaches, rich history and heritage and charming town center, it remains a firm favourite for a relaxing, coastal escape. Explore the medieval ruins of Tantallon castle, discover world-renowned golf courses from Cragielaw to nearby Muirfield, or simply enjoy a wonderful selection of independent shops and cafes. If you’re in need of inspiration for your next visit to North Berwick, keep reading to discover our guide to the very best of the region.
Do
Tantallon Castle
Perched atop a scenic promontory opposite the Bass Rock with views across the Firth of Forth, Tantallon Castle is a ruined mid-century Fortress. One of the last great medieval castles to be built in Scotland, Tantallon’s sea-carved cliffs provide a formidable, natural defence allowing a solitary curtain wall to seal off the headland. Immerse yourself in the dramatic clifftop ruins, enjoy spectacular views over the sweeping North Sea and discover replica guns used in defence against James IV and James V.
Seacliff Beach
Situated five miles south of North Berwick with dramatic views of Tantallon Castle and the Bass Rock, is Seacliff beach – one of Scotland’s true hidden gems. Shorter than its neighboring beaches at just half a mile in length, Seacliff is anything but short on beauty with its pristine golden sands and sparkling waters – it is also home to the UK’s smallest sandstone harbour. Tranquil and often quiet – the beach is privately owned, and visitors must pay a small access fee – it is a paradise for beach lovers as well as dog walkers with the Tyninghame to Seacliff circular walk that leads from the south of the beach and winds its way along the coast to the beautiful expanse of Tyninghame Sands.
Yellowcraig Beach
Renowned for its spectacular views of Fidra Island’s lighthouse, the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s famous tale Treasure Island, Yellowcraig is a natural cove beach forming part of the John Muir Way. Great for a family day out and a beach picnic – there are designated barbecue spots nearby where you can cook up some fresh fish and soak in the sea breeze. It is also a brilliant place for wildlife spotting with its diversity of habitats – across woodland, dune and grassland – you’ll be sure to spot puffins, geese and gannets to name a few. If you’re travelling with your mini-explorers in tow, make sure to explore the rock pools and discover the tiny marine life of Yellowcraig from crabs to curious fish.
North Berwick Law
Standing at 187m above sea level, North Berwick Law is a volcanic plug that erupted over 300 million years ago and is a prominent local landmark. Climb the conical North Berwick Law for unbeatable panoramic views over Bass Rock, the firth of Forth and East Lothian, and on clear days all the way across to Edinburgh. At the summit you’ll find remains of a watchhouse used during the Napoleonic War, as well as a fiberglass replica of a whale jawbone reflecting the maritime and seafaring heritage of the region.
National Museum of Flight
Located on the site of a well-preserved Second World War airfield and with a collection of over 50 aircraft, including Scotland’s only Concorde, The National Museum of Flight is a fantastic day out for the whole family with interactive exhibits that bring the history of aviation to life. Not only that, the dedicated Concorde Experience exhibition allows you to step on board to discover the thrill of supersonic flight.
Coastal Communities Museum
Explore the rich 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 at the Coastal Communities Museum. Split into several sections, the museum highlights a range of areas including medieval and natural history with a wide range of exhibits and displays. You’ll also discover the story of Catherine Watson with a memorial at Anchor Green serving as a tribute to her courage and impact on the local community.
The John Muir Way
For a scenic stroll along the rugged coastline of East Lothian take to the The John Muir Way, a long-distance walking trail named in honour of the Scottish conservationist John Muir, who was born in Dunbar in the 19th Century. One of Scotland’s Great Trails, the route spans 134 miles from Helensburgh on the Clyde to Dunbar on the North Sea. Join the path at various sections around North Berwick and follow the trail to Tantallon Castle stopping to admire some spectacular clifftop sights at Canty Bay – perfect for an afternoon jaunt.
The Boating Pond, East Beach
North Berwick’s tidal paddling pool, also known as the Boating Pond at East Beach is the perfect spot for sandcastles, picnics and bracing paddles with your children. Located on one of North Berwick’s most central beaches, you can easily walk into town to find an ice cream or a warming post-dip cup of hot chocolate!
Cragielaw
With a challenging 18-hole championship golf course ranked in the Scottish Top 100, Cragielaw is perfectly positioned on Scotland’s Golf Coast with glorious views over the Firth of Forth. The golf club offers extensive facilities including a sophisticated clubhouse, grass academy practice ground, a 6-hole par-3 course and practice putting greens. Surrounded by a further 22 golf courses, including the likes of world-renowned Muirfield, North Berwick and Gullane – the area is nothing short of a golfer’s paradise.
See
North Berwick Distillery
Only a short drive from North Berwick’s town centre at the peaceful Halflandbarns, is the 5-star North Berwick Distillery. A space to savour slowly – linger over an immersive tasting experience, discover the gleaming copper stills or enjoy a private cocktail evening where expertly crafted drinks showcase award-wining spirits in a cosy, relaxed setting.
Scottish Seabird Centre
Get up close and personal with Scotland’s incredible seabirds at the award-winning Scottish Seabird Centre located on North Berwick harbour. With interactive exhibits and live cameras streaming the activity of nearby seabird colonies, the centre is a family-friendly wildlife hub, and the perfect spot for a fun day out. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on one of Seabird Centre boat trips around the islands in the Firth of Forth including the famous Bass Rock gannet colony featured in BBC1’s Wild Isles. Explore an abundance of wildlife in its natural habitat including guillemots, gannets, puffins and if you’re lucky – you might spot a dolphin or two. Or, if you’re staying at Leuchie Walled Garden arrange to enjoy a private boat excursion with Hew Dalrymple – owner of the iconic Bass Rock and Leuchie Walled Garden – who will bring the history of the tiny island and the birds to life while you sip on a glass of Champagne.
Shop
Archerfield Walled Garden
Nestled between Gullane and Dirleton, Archerfield Walled Garden is a short 10-minute drive from bustling North Berwick. Whether you’re a family looking for the perfect day out or a gardening enthusiast, there’s something for everyone here from a spacious garden shop, magical fairy trail, garden café, a well-stocked food market and an eighteenth-century walled garden. Set within vast grounds, enjoy the beautiful Beech Walk or soak up warmer, summer days on the lawn.
The Brand Larder
If you’re on the hunt for some home-reared local produce, a visit to the Brand Family Larder is a must. Popular with both locals and visitors, the farm shop stocks an incredible range of meats from Hampshire Down lamb to Saddleback pork roasts, burgers and sausages. You’ll also find freshly baked goods from a range of local bakers, free-range hen and duck eggs and honey made by bees in Musselburgh – ideal for an indulgent breakfast cooked up in the comfort of your C&C holiday cottage.
Eat
Drift Cliff Edge Cafe
With breath-taking views over the Firth of Forth Coast and The Bass Rock, Drift is an award-winning coffee house serving everything from cakes and scones to light brunches and lunches. The hot chocolate is a particular winner and is very indulgent. There’s a takeaway food trailer outside if you’d prefer to include your four-legged friend, or if you’re looking for more than just a caffeine hit, you can enjoy a cold plunge and open sauna right next to the café – just remember book ahead.
Marine North Berwick
For dining with a view you can’t beat the Marine North Berwick, a boutique hotel that blends old world charm with modern luxury. Feast on classic Italian dishes while admiring the sea views, or book in for an indulgent, and more Scottish, afternoon tea or a leisurely Sunday roast. Arrive early and enjoy a pre-prandial drink in the the Bass Rock Bar to soak up the best of those sweeping sea views in sophisticated style.
Stay
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to stay while exploring the beauty of East Lothian’s coastline look no further than a Crabtree & Crabtree holiday cottage. Browse our favourites below for inspiration for your next holiday.
The Beach House
Set on the waterfront only a short walk from the town center of North Berwick, enjoy unparalleled sea views from this spacious and contemporary house.
Hillside Cottage
A stunning two-bedroom cottage ideally positioned for coastal and countryside adventures in and around beautiful North Berwick.
Leuchie Walled Garden
An architectural and horticultural treasure set on the outskirts of North Berwick, Leuchie Walled Garden blends a 200-year-old gardener’s cottage with an avant-garde mid-century modern house.
The Coach House, Kingston
A ground-floor, three bedroom cottage located in the pretty hamlet of Kingston, only three miles from North Berwick.
