Days out in East Lothian

For Family Fun

East Links Park

Dunbar, EH42 1XF
7 miles/12 min drive from Thurston Manor

Head over to East Links park for a fun-filled day at the farm. Encounter everything from highland cows, llamas and goats to prairie dogs and wallabies, and with activities like go-karts, sand pits, trampolines, crazy golf, a sledging slope and musical maze, there’s something for all to enjoy.

• Good for families
• Fully accessible
• Kennels available on-site
• Seasonal opening times

Scottish Seabird Centre

North Berwick, EH39 4SS
15 miles/26 min drive from Thurston Manor

Step into the Scottish Seabird Centre where you can discover all there is to know about the wonders of Scotland’s seas and their birdlife. Dive into the interactive Discover Experience, control live cameras to spot the local wildlife and hop on a seasonal boat trip to watch up close.

• Good for families
• Fully accessible
• Dog friendly
• Seasonal opening times

Dunbar Leisure Pool

Dunbar, EH42 1EU
5 miles/11 min drive from Thurston Manor

If you fancy a dip, be sure to head to Dunbar Leisure Pool where you can make a splash. With flumes, wave machines, a beachside cafe and a sauna and steam room to unwind, there’s something for the whole family to have a fantastic day.

• Good for families
• Fully accessible
• Seasonal opening times

National Museum of Flight

East Fortune Airfield, EH39 5LF
15 miles/23 min drive from Thurston Manor

At the National Museum of Flight, you can discover a world-class collection of aircraft and hear fascinating stories of the people who built and flew them. With decades of history from the First World War to the present day, you can immerse yourself in interactive galleries, supersonic experiences and historic hangars. You can even hop on board Scotland’s Concorde to see what transatlantic flight was like for its passengers and crew.

• Good for families
• Pet friendly
• Accessible, some restrictions
• Opening times: 10:00 - 17:00 (April - Oct), 10:00 - 16:00, weekends only (Nov - March)

Fringe by the Sea

North Berwick, EH39 4HN
15 miles/25 min drive from Thurston Manor

Founded in 2008, Fringe by the Sea is a community festival in North Berwick which has grown into one of Scotland’s most celebrated events over the years. Driven by values of creativity, inclusivity and collaboration, the festival aims to use the arts to unite people. Their programme of events celebrates local talent, giving individuals and groups the chance to take to the stage and share their passion with the wider community.

• Good for families
• Fully accessible
• Dogs allowed (on leads)
• Seasonal opening

Airhop Trampoline Park

Edinburgh, EH21 6SY
29 miles/33 min drive from Thurston Manor

Packed full of fun for the whole family, Airhop Trampoline Park includes wall-to-wall trampolines, giant airbags, battle beams, wipeout, extreme slides and more. There are various types of jump sessions available, so the whole family can enjoy a bounce. If the trampolines aren’t for you, why not kick back in the Jump In Cafe and enjoy the array of drinks, sandwiches, wraps, snacks and sweet treats available.

• Good for families
• Seasonal opening times

Archerfield Walled Garden

Dirleton, EH39 5HQ
21 miles/30 min drive from Thurston Manor

The perfect place to explore, recharge or play, Archerfield Walled Garden is an 18th Century walled garden that was originally used to grow produce for Archerfield House. On the site you can find a fabulous garden shop, magical fairy trail, the garden cafe, a play area and even more for a wonderful family day out.

• Good for families
• Fully accessible
• Dogs welcome (on leads)
• Opening hours: 10:00 - 17:00 (Monday - Saturday), 9:00 - 17:00 (Sundays)

Aubingy Sports Centre

Haddington, EH41 4DB
15 miles/21 min drive from Thurston Manor

With a four-lane swimming pool, a sauna, steam room, gym and multi-purpose sports hall, Aubigny Sports Centre is the perfect place for those looking for an active day out. There is also a cafe for you to relax and enjoy a tasty treat afterwards.

• Good for families
• Fully accessible
• Seasonal opening times

Dunbar Garden Centre

Dunbar, EH42 1BF
4 miles/8 min drive from Thurston Manor

With everything you need under one roof, this environmentally-friendly garden centre is the perfect stop for a wander. Explore the different varieties of flowers and plants, admire the fabulous work of local artists in the gift section and head to the farm shop to find the best produce in the area. Finish your trip by enjoying a tasty treat in the glasshouse restaurant.

• Good for families
• Fully accessible
• Dogs allowed, with some restrictions
• Opening hours: 9:00 - 18:00, Monday - Sunday

For Cultural Days Out

Tantallon Castle

North Berwick, EH39 5PN
14 miles/23 min drive from Thurston Manor

Once home to the Red Douglas dynasty, Tantallon Castle is a fantastic place to explore for all. Climb to the battlements of the last grand medieval castle, marvel at its scale and enjoy fantastic views over the North Sea to Bass Rock. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the replica gun at the bottom of the east tower, an exact copy of those used to defend against James IV and James V.

• Accessible with some restrictions
• Seasonal opening times

Dirleton Castle

North Berwick, EH39 5ER
21 miles/29 min drive from Thurston Manor

This romantic castle has often been at the forefront of Scottish history since it was first built in the 12th Century, and is the perfect place to enjoy gorgeous scenery and historical architecture. What could be better than relaxing on a sunny afternoon in the Victorian garden?

• Accessible with some restrictions, gardens are fully accessible
• Opening times: 10:00 - 16:00. Closed on Thursdays & Fridays

Preston Mill and Phantassie Doocot

East Linton, EH40 3DS
10 miles/16 min drive from Thurston Manor

This 18th Century mill looks like it’s jumped straight from a story book. Step back in time and immerse yourself into mill life, seeing mechanisms in action and learning about the millers who worked there. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for otters, kingfishers and herons who can often be spotted on the riverbank. It’s also a great spot for fans of the historical drama Outlander as the mill features in the series.

• Pre-booked guided tours only, booking available online
• Not suitable for wheelchair users

Hailes Castle

Haddington, EH41 4PY
11 miles/19min drive from Thurston Manor

Hidden in the picturesque valley of the River Tyne, you’ll find the ruins of Hailes Castle, dating back to the 1200s. Visited by Mary Queen of Scots and attacked by Oliver Cromwell, there is so much history tied to the castle, making it the perfect spot to explore.

• Accessible grounds
• Seasonal opening times

Fa'side Castle

Tranent, EH33 2LE
26 miles/30 min drive from Thurston Manor

Fa’side Castle stands dramatically on a high ridge and is visible for miles around. With its unique architecture, it’s a popular site for history buffs and walkers alike, and there are centuries of history tied to the castle.

• Accessible grounds, with some restrictions
• Free access (castle can only be viewed from the road)

Yester Castle (Goblin Ha')

Gifford, EH41 4PJ
18 miles/33 min drive from Thurston Manor

Tucked away in the small village of Gifford lies the ruins of Yester Castle and its dungeon. Developed in the 13th Century by Sir Hugo De Gifford, who was believed to be a wizard, the castle is said to have been built with the help of goblins. The site has a reputation for being haunted, with countless people recounting unexplained phenomena while braving their way down the staircase commonly known as ‘The Gateway to Hell’.

The ruins can be found in a wooded area near the village, roughly a 25 minute walk from the parking area, and are a fantastic hidden gem to explore - if you’re brave enough!

• Free entry
• Not suitable for wheelchair users

Seton Collegiate Church

Longniddry, EH32 0PG
23 miles/26 min from Thurston Manor

Hidden amongst a beautiful wooded setting, Seton Collegiate Church is one of the finest surviving medieval collegiate churches in Scotland. Step inside to see the stonework, gaze at the vaulted chancel and apse dating from the 15th Century and visit the priests’ domestic quarters to discover how they lived.

• Accessible with some restrictions
• Seasonal opening times

St Martin's Kirk

Haddington, EH41 4AY
15 miles/20 min drive from Thurston Manor

Originally a place of worship for the nuns and people of Haddington, St Martin’s is all that remains of St Mary’s Cistercian Nunnery. John Knox, the architect of the Scottish Protestant Reformation in 1560, may have attended services in St Martin’s as a young boy, but the kirk did not survive his Reformation intact. Keep your eyes peeled for the square holes in the walls, whose function is a mystery even today.

Carberry Hill Monument

Musselburgh, EH21 8PY
25 miles/29 min drive from Thurston Manor

If you fancy a stroll, this route takes you around glorious woodland where you can enjoy wildlife spotting. Keep a lookout for roe deer, foxes, magpies and green woodpeckers! The trail leads up Carberry Hill to the standing stone at the summit, a memorial to Mary Queen of Scots in the spot where she surrendered herself to the Confederate Lords.

• Good for families
• Free access

Chesters Hill Fort

North Berwick, EH39 5AZ
17 miles/22 min drive from Thurston Manor

One of Scotland’s best-preserved Iron Age hillforts, Chesters Hill Fort remains an impressive and imposing monument even today. Explore the fort, the elaborate ditches that helped defend it and the remains of houses that can be found within the fort.

• Free access
• Good for families

The DunBear

Dunbar, EH42 1BF
4 miles/6 min drive from Thurston Manor

The DunBear is a statue depicting a brown bear standing on its hind legs, created as a tribute to John Muir who played a key role in the establishment of National Parks in the US. The statue represents his travels through the wilderness of Western America and his work and desire to protect the natural environment.

• Good for families
• Free access

Belhaven Brewery

Dunbar, EH42 1PE
6 miles/13 mins drive from Thurston Manor

Situated in Dunbar, Belhaven Brewery is Scotland’s oldest working brewery, established in 1719. You can learn more about the brewery’s history, discover the brewing process and taste award-winning Belhaven beers on one of the fantastic tours. If you’re a beer fan, this is the ideal day out.

• Tours run: Mon - Sat (10:15am and 14:30pm)

For Adventure Lovers

Foxlake Adventures

Dunbar, EH42 1XF
7 miles/11 min drive from Thurston Manor

With an array of exciting activities for you to embark on, Foxlake Adventures is the ideal day out for thrillseekers. Whether you fancy wakeboarding, taking on FoxFall Ropes or tackling the obstacles on the Aqua Park, there’s something to excite everyone!

Guests or owners at Thurston Manor can grab 10% off at Foxlake Adventures! 

• Good for families
• Seasonal opening times
• Dogs welcome (on leads)

John Muir Way

Various locations to join the route

This long-distance path stretches across Scotland from coast to coast. The route is named after conservationist John Muir and reverses his steps from Helensburgh, where he boarded his ship for America, to his birthplace in Dunbar. While the full route usually takes several days, many complete each section separately. With fantastic views of Scottish hills and coastlines, it’s a wonderful way to stretch your legs and admire some truly stunning scenery.

• Good for cyclists
• Dog friendly
• Accessible (with some restrictions)

Musselburgh Racecourse

Musselburgh, EH21 7RG
25 miles/31 min drive from Thurston Manor

Offering award-winning facilities and located only 5 miles from Edinburgh, Musselburgh Racecourse is a fantastic day out the whole family is sure to love. Racing is hosted throughout the year, with events such as Ladies Day and Family Racedays, so there’s something to suit everyone.

• Good for families
• Fully accessible
• Dog friendly

Glenkinchie Distillery

Tranent, EH34 5ET
22 miles/34 min drive from Thurston Manor

Serving as one of the Four Corners of Scotland distilleries of Johnnie Walker, the Glenkinchie Distillery is an immersive experience bringing you face to face with the traditional methods of producing whiskey. There are a range of tours and tasting sessions to choose from, so you can find one that best suits you for a truly fabulous experience.

• Accessible (with some restrictions)
• Well-behaved dogs welcome in bars and shops (on leads)
• Seasonal opening times

For Reconnecting with Nature

Tyninghame Beach and Seacliff Beach

Currie, EH14 5NT
11 miles/19 min drive from Thurston Manor

This circular walk takes you along sandy beaches and through beautiful woodland, offering stunning views to Dunbar over the Tynemouth Bay. You can also discover Scotland’s smallest harbour near Seacliff Beach. If you’re looking for a circular walk with spectacular coastal views, this is the route for you.

• Good for families
• Dog friendly

John Muir Country Park

Dunbar, EH42 1TY
7 miles/12 min drive from Thurston Manor

The John Muir Country Park is the ideal spot to walk, play, visit the beach and spot local wildlife. There are many species of plants, insects and birds to discover, and plenty of walking routes to explore, making it the perfect place to enjoy a day outdoors.

• Good for families
• Accessible (some restrictions)
• Dog friendly

Yellowcraig Beach

North Berwick, EH39 5DS
20 miles/34 min drive from Thurston Manor

Popular with families, featuring golden sand, an adventure playpark and a great network of nature trails, Yellowcraig Beach is a great place to spend a sunny day. Whether you fancy embarking on a walk, trying a spot of paddling or simply taking in the spectacular views to the lighthouse on Fidra Island, said to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, you’re sure to have a wonderful time.

• Good for families
• Accessible (some restrictions)
• Dog friendly
• Toilets, showers and changing rooms on-site

Amisfield Walled Garden

Haddington, EH41 4BZ
14 miles/20 min drive from Thurston Manor

Restored and developed as a community garden, Amisfield Walled Garden is a beautiful green space for recreation and relaxation for people of all ages. The garden dates back to the 18th Century and is one of the largest walled gardens in Scotland. You’ll spend hours exploring the fruit and vegetable beds, wildflower meadow, orchard and woodland plantings.

• Free entry
• Fully accessible
• Dog friendly
• Seasonal opening times

Lammermuir Festival

Haddington, EH41 4DA
15 miles/20 min drive from Thurston Manor

Celebrating beautiful music and beautiful places, the Lammermuir festival takes place every year and brings together the finest musicians, local people and visitors together. From orchestras to soloists, there’s a great range available to give you a fantastic show.

For Watersports Enthusiasts

Gullane Beach

Gullane, EH31 2BE
22 miles/31 min drive from Thurston Manor

The town of Gullane is best known for its golf courses, but it also boasts a wonderful sandy beach with great views to the Firth of Forth. The beach is a draw for windsurfers and kite flyers, and it’s also popular for picnics and sandcastles on warmer days. There are also plenty of places to walk nearby, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

• Good for families
• Good for watersports
• Accessible (some restrictions)
• Dog friendly

Bass Rock Boat Trips

Various locations

A boat trip is the best way to see the islands dotted along the East Lothian coastline, get close and possibly land on Bass Rock and spot wildlife such as seals, dolphins and seabirds. There are various boat trips you can set sail on to reach Bass Rock. Here are our recommendations:

Alba Game Fishing Ltd., North Berwick, EH39 5FQ (15 miles/31 min drive from Thurston Manor)
Bluewild Boat Tours, Dunbar, EH42 1HS (5 miles/11 min drive from Thurston Manor)
Sula Boat Tours, North Berwick, EH39 4JW (15 miles/27 min drive from Thurston Manor)
Scottish Seabird Centre, North Berwick EH39 4SS (15 miles/27 min drive from Thurston Manor)

Dunbar Harbour

Dunbar, EH42 1HW
5 miles/11 min drive from Thurston Manor

Dunbar was once a major herring and whaling port, and its harbour is a popular attraction for tourists. Explore the three harbours in the area, along with a ruined castle and a huge collection of water craft from fishing boats to kayaks. If you’re lucky, you can even spot the occasional seal popping in to visit.

• Good for families
• Accessible (some restrictions)
• Dog friendly

Dunbar Beach

Dunbar, EH42 1GT
7 miles/12 min drive from Thurston Manor

Just a few minutes from the town centre, you’ll find Dunbar East, a beautiful sand and shingle beach. It’s a great place to enjoy rock pooling and is popular with kayakers and paddleboarders. With plenty to explore, it’s a wonderful place for a family day out.

• Good for families
• Accessible (some restrictions)
• Dog friendly

For Food Lovers

Lobster Shack

North Berwick, EH39 4SS
15 miles/27 min drive from Thurston Manor

Serving sensational food in stunning surroundings, The Lobster Shack offers the freshest lobster, crab and haddock, all right by the sea. Whether you fancy fish tacos, chowder or a simple crab dish, there’s something to make everyone’s mouth water. There is indoor and outdoor seating available, so you can enjoy a delicious treat whether rain or shine.

• Good for families
• Accessible
• Dog friendly
• Takeaway options available

Drift Cafe

North Berwick, EH39 5PL
14 miles/23 min drive from Thurston Cafe

If you fancy something a little different, head to the award-winning Drift, a unique coffee house with breathtaking views over Firth of Forth and delicious food and drink to perfectly complement the scenery. Drift is popular with walkers, cyclists and locals and offers a variety of dishes from English classics to Asian-inspired delights. Not to mention a marvellous selection of beautiful cakes and sweet treats.

• Good for families
• Accessible
• Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options available

East Fortune Market

North Berwick, EH39 5BT
13 miles/21 min drive from Thurston Manor

Showcasing the best local traders East Lothian has to offer, East Fortune outdoor market offers everything from artisan bread and real dairy ice cream to beautiful handcrafted gifts. With so much variation and so many wonderful vendors to meet, there’s something for all.

• Good for families
• Accessible (some restrictions)
• Dog friendly
• Seasonal opening times

Gullane

22 miles/31 min drive from Thurston Manor

Sitting along the coast of the Firth of Forth you’ll find the picturesque village of Gullane. Renowned as a golf resort, the village also boasts beautiful beaches, castle ruins, a motor museum and plenty of wonderful, high-quality eateries. From fantastic French delights to scrumptious afternoon teas, there’s something for everyone in Gullane.

Here are some favourites to check out:

The Bonnie Badger - Traditional pub with a modern twist
La Potinière - French restaurant owned by award-winning chefs Keith Marley and Mary Runciman
The Main Course - Award-winning Italian restaurant
Greywalls - Luxury hotel with fine dining and afternoon tea

Haddington

15 miles/18 min drive from Thurston Manor

Haddington is a market town situated 18 miles from Edinburgh, often known as ‘the hidden toun’. There is still a farmers’ market held on the last Saturday of each month, and there is a variety of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, there are so many fabulous places to try!

Here are some suggestions to sample:

The Waterside Bistro - Award-winning bistro set on the river Tyne
The Victoria Inn - Traditional Scottish inn
Tyneside Tavern - Award-winning pub serving Italian dishes and a variety of drinks
Carlyle House - Modern cafe and private dining
Ozy’s Bar & Kitchen - Cosy cafe
The Loft - Charming artisan cafe and bakery
The Golf Tavern - Traditional Scottish bar

For Rainy Days

John Muir's Birthplace

Dunbar, EH42 1JJ
5 miles/11 min drive from Thurston Manor

John Muir was an inventor, botanist, geologist, glaciologist, mountaineer, farmer and artist and spent much of his life campaigning to preserve wilderness. He is remembered as a pioneer of the modern conservation movement and continues to inspire people all over the world. The birthplace offers three floors of interactive displays, giving visitors the chance to explore the life and legacy of John Muir.

• Free entry
• Good for families
• Fully accessible
• Opening times: 10:00 - 17:00 (Wed - Sat), 13:00 - 17:00 (Sun), closed Monday & Tuesday

John Gray Centre

Haddington, EH41 3DX
15 miles/20 min drive from Thurston Manor

Step back in time and discover the history of East Lothian in this innovative, interactive museum. Hear stories of the people who lived there from the Stone Age all the way to present times and uncover how people earned their living and spent their time. There are also seasonal exhibitions reflecting the past and present to explore.

• Good for families
• Fully accessible, free audio guides with visual description and navigation guidelines for blind and visually impaired visitors
• Seasonal opening times

Cockenzie House and Gardens

Cockenzie, EH32 0HY
23 miles/28 min drive from Thurston Manor

Built in 1675 by the Seton family, this Jacobean house and gardens is truly a hidden gem. With plenty to explore from unique garden follies to a gallery featuring work by local artists and a fantastic cafe, there’s something for all to enjoy a great day out.

• Good for families
• Free entry
• Fully accessible

Dunbar Town House Museum and Gallery

Dunbar, EH42 1ER
5 miles/10 min drive from Thurston Manor

As one of Dunbar’s oldest buildings, this 16th Century town house is the perfect place to explore and delve deeper into the town’s history. Enjoy wandering through the house, taking in the distinctive surroundings and fascinating displays and exhibitions.

• Good for families
• Free entry
• Fully accessible
• Seasonal opening times

Prestongrange Museum

Prestonpans, EH32 9RX
25 miles/31 min drive from Thurston Manor

Prestongrange was a focus of industry for over 400 years and a harbour, glass works, pottery, colliery and brickworks have all left their marks on the landscape. The Visitor Centre also houses a museum where you can explore an exhibition about the site and take the free audio tour. There is also a lovely cafe where you can enjoy refreshments.

• Free entry (cost for guided tours)
• Fully accessible
• Seasonal opening times

Coastal Communities Museum

North Berwick, EH39 4JU
15 miles/25 min drive from Thurston Manor

Featuring displays on 10,000 years of local history, The Coastal Communities Museum is the perfect place to explore the culture and heritage of the coastal communities that make up East Lothian’s North Berwick coastal ward.

• Free entry
• Good for families
• Fully accessible
• Seasonal opening times

1722 Waggonway Museum

Cockenzie, EH32 0JY
23 miles/28 min drive from Thurston Manor

Celebrating Scotland’s oldest railway route, the 1722 Waggonway Museum features artefacts, models, maps, plans and photos. You can discover where salt and coal were produced and shipped while trading to Hanseatic ports.

• Free entry
• Accessible with some restrictions
• Seasonal opening times

Battle of Prestonpans Jacobite Museum

Prestonpans, EH32 9AY
24 miles/29 min drive from Thurston Manor

The Battle of Prestonpans was a Jacobite conflict in 1745 which left a historical legacy that can still be felt today. In the museum, you’ll find exhibitions, artefacts, newspaper reports and more to help you learn all there is to know about the significant battle. There is even a camp area with tents and a mock campfire for younger guests to catch a glimpse into the lives of the soldiers who were involved in the battle.

• Good for families
• Free entry
• Fully accessible
• Opening times: 11:00 - 16:00, Saturdays and Sundays

Facilities and Entertainment at Thurston Manor

As well as having plenty to do around East Lothian, there's also a fantastic range of activities available at Thurston Manor. Whether you fancy a dip in the pool, trying your hand at fly fishing or relaxing while you enjoy the fabulous seasonal entertainment on offer, there's something to suit everyone, right on your doorstep! 

Book your stay at Thurston Manor for your next wonderful holiday today.