The Sands & Castles of East Lothian

9 hours

Departing From Edinburgh

Follow the breathtaking East Lothian coastline for a fantastic blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

Once aboard, your driver will take you east out of Edinburgh and on to East Lothians scenic coastal road. As you head towards the first stop of Dirleton, you will pass through the charming seaside towns of Aberlady and Gullane which are renowned for their golf courses and stunning views over the Firth of Forth.

In Dirleton you will have plenty of time to explore the castle ruins, climb the towers and walk the grounds. Arguably one of the best examples of well-preserved medieval architecture, steeped in history dating back to the 13th century.  When you’re done wandering the beautiful castle gardens, we take a short 10 minute drive to our first beach.

Yellowcraig beach offers you a picture-perfect setting with expansive sands, backed by grassy dunes and surrounded by cliffs, it's a serene environment for a leisurely walk. The nature trails through the dunes and forest offer additional opportunities to explore and enjoy the local flora and fauna.

With the sand rubbed from between the toes we head further east to the seaside town of North Berwick. Once a royal burgh, the town boasts a picturesque high street, beautiful sandy beaches and a relaxing atmosphere. You will have time to grab some lunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants, or visit the Scottish Seabird Centre to learn about the marine life and seabirds in the area.

On the outskirts of North Berwick, perched on cliffs overlooking the North Sea, we visit the dramatic and imposing Tantallon Castle. You will be able to explore the mighty fortress and learn about its history through informational displays. Built in the 14th century as the seat of the Douglas clan, this castle played a crucial role in several conflicts including the Scottish Wars of Independence.

Continuing our journey, a small hop takes us to Seacliff beach. This secluded bay offers visitors a tranquil and unspoiled coastal experience from which you can gain breathtaking views of Tantallon Castle on the cliffs above.  The beach is also home to its own castle ruins, "Auldhame", and features a unique boathouse carved into the cliffs.

Our final stop on the tour brings us to Athelstaneford, the birthplace of the Scottish Flag. This small village offers a glimpse of rural Scottish life with its scenic countryside surroundings. Learn about the battle between the Picts and the Angles, the vision of King Angus, and how the Scottish Saltire came to life.




What's included?
    • Scenic tour through the County of East Lothian
    • Time to explore Yellowcraig and Seacliff beaches
    • Transport on an air conditioned mini-coach / coach
    • Services of an English-speaking driver guide
    • Regular stops for photos and rest breaks
    Exclusions
      • Food and drink
      • Entrance to attractions
      • On board restrooms
      • Individual hotel / multi-point pick-ups and drop-offs
      Please note
        • This tour operates in all weather conditions, please wear comfortable clothing & footwear and bring some waterproof clothing in case of adverse weather conditions
        • The tour involves cross-country driving and a large portion of the trip is spent on the bus, taking in the views of the East Lothian countryside with some live commentary
        • There are places to buy food on the day, but bringing some snacks or a cold packed lunch is advisable
        What to bring
          • Comfortable footwear and clothing
          • Waterproof clothing
          • Cold packed lunch / snacks
          • We advise max 10kg hand luggage per person onboard our coaches. This ensures customer safety and comfort.
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