Walks in East Lothian

East Lothian is a beautiful part of Scotland, with beautiful beaches, quaint towns and wonderful woodlands to explore. If you’re heading to the area and fancy stretching your legs, there are plenty of fantastic walking routes offering some stunning views. Whether you’re after a simple stroll or a longer hike, there’s something to suit everyone. 

Dunbar Clifftop Trail 

Start: Dunbar Harbour, EH42 1HW

Difficulty: Easy 

Distance: 1.5 miles 

Time: 45 minutes

Take in the views from this two-part, clifftop circuit including the iconic red sandstone cliffs through to the historic Dunbar high street and harbour. 

This is part of the historic John Muir Way but a shorter, moderately easy route, making it perfect for non-experienced walkers and those with children. This walk features fantastic sea views and fascinating volcanic rock formations. 

John Muir Way

Start: North Berwick

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 14.25 miles

Time: 5-6 hours

The John Muir Way is a fantastic coastal path spanning from west to east Scotland. The final section of this impressive 134 mile walking route lets you take in the sights between North Berwick and Dunbar. From farmland to saltmarshes and dramatic clifftop paths, this walking route has everything, including amazing sea views. The walk ends at the John Muir Birthplace Museum, so you can find out about the man this route was named after.

Lammermuir Hills

Start: Cattlegrid on B6355 at NT643642

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Distance: 7 miles

Time: 3-4 hours 

Thurston Manor nestles at the foot of the Lammermuir Hills, so what better place to visit than the hills themselves during your stay? The Whiteadder Reservoir to Priestlaw Hill circuit allows you to see some of this breath-taking area in all its glory, especially from the summit of the hill. This 7 mile walk includes the route taken down the Herring Road by the fishwives of Dunbar to carry herring over the hills to the nearby town of Lauder.

John Muir Country Park 

Take a relaxing walk through the John Muir Country Park and visit the beautiful Belhaven Bay, with its views across to Bass Rock and the Forth Estuary. From the Bay you can visit the Dunbar Clifftop Walk or have a stroll round the John Muir Country Park. The beach itself is a great place for surfing or to relax and enjoy the great outdoors with picnics and sunbathing whilst visiting the area.

There are various routes to explore, from short strolls to longer hikes. 

Longniddry to Haddington Railway Walk

Start: Longniddry Rail Station, 

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 4 miles 

Time: 2-2.5 hours 

This route follows an old railway line connecting two wonderful East Lothian towns. The line closed in 1949, but it’s now a popular walking route where you can spot wildlife and wildflowers, as well as Redhouse Castle and the Hopetoun Monument at the top of Byres Hill. There are several lovely cafes in the towns, so be sure to reward yourself with a tasty treat afterwards! 

North Berwick to Tantallon Castle

Start: North Berwick

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 3 miles

Time: 3 hours 

If you’re after fabulous coastal views, this route is the one for you. From North Berwick, you’ll head along the beach, admiring the glorious scenery, before heading inland to the castle. This walk is best enjoyed at low tide so be sure to check the times to make the most of this route. 

Traprain Law

Start: Car park 6km east of Haddington 

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 2 miles

Time: 1 hour

This short stroll is perfect if you’re not up for a hike but still want to stretch your legs and appreciate some of East Lothian’s beautiful scenery. On your way up the hill, keep your eyes out for the 13 Exmoor ponies who love to graze there. At the top you’ll find an ancient hill fort dating back to Roman times, as well as stunning views. 

North Berwick Law

Start: North Berwick Law car park off B1347

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Distance: 4.25 miles

Time: 2-2.5 hours

This walk offers fabulous views over the coast, the Bass Rock and across to Edinburgh and the Pentlands. It’s a circular route, giving you the opportunity to explore the coast and town of North Berwick, and a must-do if you’re interested in admiring the local scenery. 

Newhailes House, near Musselburgh

Start: Queen Margaret University Square

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 3 miles

Time: 1-1.5 hours

This short, refreshing walk loops around Newhailes House and offers lots of opportunities to spot local wildlife. With plenty of nooks and crannies to explore, a playpark and beautiful woodlands, it’s the ideal route for a family stroll. 

Accommodation in East Lothian 

If you’re itching to get out and explore East Lothian, Thurston Manor is the ideal spot to base yourself. Set amongst the beautiful Scottish countryside and offering luxury self-catering accommodation and first-class facilities, you’ll enjoy the best of countryside and coast when holidaying with us.