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.
Enjoy the first stop at Archerfield Walled Garden. A unique destination in the heart of the beautiful East Lothian countryside, with lovingly tended Gardens, extensive grounds, Garden Café, Shop and Food Market, there is lots to see and do

Spend time exploring the well preserved castles of Dirleton and Tantallon. Gain insights to medieval life and architecture as you roam the castle grounds.

Free 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: 8 hours, 30 minutes

Archerfield Walled Garden

Archerfield Estate, Dirleton, EH39 5HQ

Archerfield Walled Garden is a unique destination in the heart of the beautiful East Lothian countryside. Close to the seaside towns of Gullane and North Berwick and just 20 miles from the centre of Edinburgh, it’s the perfect place for a stop to grab some refreshments. With lovingly tended Gardens, extensive grounds, Garden Café, Shop and Food Market, there is lots to see and do. Families will love the woodland Fairy Trail and enclosed play area. Whether you’re a garden enthusiast looking for inspiration or a foodie looking for delicious brunch, you will love what’s on offer here.

45 minutes

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 Not Included

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, 45 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.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Not Included

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