Edinburgh Day Trip to Sands and Castles of East Lothian

Follow the breathtaking East Lothian coastline for a fantastic blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Spend time exploring the well preserved medieval castles of Dirleton and Tantallon. Visit the picturesque clean golden beaches of Yellowcraig and Seacliff.

Spend time for lunch in North Berwick. Once a royal burgh, the town boasts a picturesque high street, beautiful sandy beaches and a relaxing atmosphere.

A final stop on the way home at Athelstaneford, the birthplace of the Scottish Flag where you will learn about the battle between the Picts and the Angles, the vision of King Angus, and how the Scottish Saltire came to life.

Meeting Point

17 Charlotte Square

17 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh EH2 4DJ, UK

Meet the driver/guide at Charlotte Square* for check in at 8:45am for a sharp 9:00am departure.
*The bus stop outside the National Records of Scotland (17 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, EH2 4DJ) is the exact location of departure.

What's included:

• Scenic tour through the County of East Lothian
• Regular stops for photos and rest breaks
• Time to explore Yellowcraig and Seacliff beaches
• Services of an English-speaking driver guide

Not included:

• Food and drink
• Individual hotel / multi-point pick-ups and drop-off

What to expect:

Duration: 9 hours

Dirleton Castle

Dirleton Road, , Dirleton, EH39 5ER

The first stop on our journey brings us to the well preserved Dirleton Castle. The castle is located at the heart of the rich agricultural lands of the barony of Dirleton, and guards the coastal approach to Edinburgh from England, via the port of North Berwick. You will have the chance to roam through the beautiful gardens, gaining insights into medieval life and architecture

1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Yellowcraig Beach

Dirleton, EH39 5DS

Yellowcraig Beach is a natural cove with spectacular views over to the 1885 lighthouse on Fidra Island which is said to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson's book Treasure Island. It's very popular with families, with an adventure playpark and a great network of nature trails.

40 minutes

North Berwick

North Berwick

This seaside town is a former royal burgh. It is situated on the south shore of the Firth of Forth, approximately 20 miles (32 km) east-northeast of Edinburgh. North Berwick became a fashionable holiday resort in the nineteenth century because of its two sandy bays, the East (or Milsey) Bay and the West Bay, and continues to attract holidaymakers. You can spend your time here meandering the streets, wandering along the beach on the East Bay, or by popping into the the Scottish Seabird Centre to learn about the wildlife in this area.

1 hour, 30 minutes

Tantallon Castle

North Berwick, , North Berwick, EH39 5PN

Tantallon Castle is a ruined mid-14th-century fortress, located 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) east of North Berwick. It sits atop a promontory opposite the Bass Rock, looking out onto the Firth of Forth. The last medieval curtain wall castle to be constructed in Scotland, Tantallon comprises a single wall blocking off the headland, with the other three sides naturally protected by sea cliffs. The views from the castle across the Firth of Forth do not disappoint.

40 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Seacliff Beach

North Berwick, EH39 5PP

Seacliff Beach is a private beach with a tiny sandstone harbour, a surf spot and with prominent views of Bass Rock and Tantallon Castle. While spending time here make sure to take the short walk from the beach to the ruins of Auldhame Castle situated on a ridge above Seacliff beach.

20 minutes

Athelstaneford

Athelstaneford, North Berwick EH39 5BE, UK

The last of our stops is the wee village of Athelstaneford which is known for its connection to the Scottish flag. According to popular legend, the original Scottish saltire - the white diagonal cross on a sky blue background - was first adopted here. A visit to the National Flag Heritage Centre will provide more insight.

30 minutes