When you invest in a holiday home at Elm Bank you’ve got a fantastic base from which you can enjoy plenty of days out exploring. North Berwick, a mere 40 miles north of Berwick-upon-Tweed and Elm Bank, is a great place to spend some of your time.
Located on the stunning coastline of East Lothian, Scotland, this truly charming seaside town and its surrounding area offer a combination of amazing landscapes and historical sites, making the region a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs and nature lovers alike. In this edition of our blog, you’ll find our suggestions of ten ‘North Berwick must-visits’ that are guarantees of a great time.
North Berwick Law
This ancient volcanic hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Firth of Forth, the Bass Rock and the town itself. North Berwick Law stands at 613 feet above sea level, and the 45-minute hike to the summit is a really rewarding experience. History buffs will be interested in the remains of a Napoleonic war signal station near the summit, as well as the iconic whale jawbone sculpture (a replica of one that stood there for over 200 years). There is a car park off the B1347.
Tantallon Castle
Perched dramatically on a cliff edge, Tantallon Castle is a really striking ruin with spectacular sea views. Its rich history dates back to the 14th century, and in its day saw its fair share of battles and sieges, as well as occupation by noble inhabitants. Tantallon was finally abandoned in 1651, when it was besieged by Oliver Cromwell’s army. Visitors can explore the imposing red sandstone walls and the castle also provides a fantastic vantage point to birdwatch, with seabirds including puffins and gannets nesting on nearby cliffs. For those with an interest in Scotland’s past, this is a must-see.
Bass Rock
The ‘nearby cliffs’ we just mentioned include those on Bass Rock – a large craggy island chunk which rises 106 metres above sea level, and sits a mile offshore from Tantallon Castle. Here, nature lovers will be captivated by the wildlife. 150,000 gannets nest on the Bass Rock in the peak breeding season, and there are boat tours which travel to it and allow visitors to get up close and personal as the birds dive into the water to catch fish. These tours often also take visitors around nearby islands, such as Craigleith and the Isle of May, where you can often see seals lounging on the rocks.
Scottish Seabird Centre
For a much more in-depth understanding of the North Berwick area’s incredible marine life, the Scottish Seabird Centre is a must-visit. Easily accessible (located right by the harbour), this award-winning conservation and education centre features interactive exhibits so visitors can learn about the wildlife and marine ecosystems in the locality. There are live cameras providing close-up views of puffins, seals and other sea creatures in their natural habitats and, for families, the Seabird Centre offers plenty of child-friendly activities. There is a cafe and a shop and the whole site is both educational and fun for visitors of all ages.
Yellowcraig Beach
The pristine beaches around North Berwick include Yellowcraig Beach, one of the most picturesque stretches of coastline in the region. Just a short drive west of the town, Yellowcraig is a real haven for anyone seeking tranquillity. The beach backs onto a network of sand dunes and woodlands, and there are stunning views of Fidra Island and its lighthouse. This is the perfect spot for a scenic coastal walk, a picnic or a bit of an explore of rock pools at low tide. The surrounding area around Yellowcraig is ideal for birdwatching, with various species often seen near the dunes.
Dirleton Castle
Just a few miles west of North Berwick, the beautiful-looking Dirleton Castle is a medieval fortress surrounded by well-maintained gardens. The castle itself dates back to the 13th century and offers a glimpse into Scotland’s feudal past, with visitors able to explore well-preserved priest’s room and chapel, vaults, kitchens and the great hall. The adjoining gardens at Dirleton Castle feature an extensive herbaceous border, which has been authenticated by the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s longest, along with neatly kept lawns and flower beds.
John Muir Way
Named after the Scottish-born naturalist John Muir, who was born in Dunbar, the John Muir Way is a long-distance walking and cycling route stretching across Scotland from Helensburgh in the west to Dunbar in the east. North Berwick itself lies along this scenic trail, offering an excellent opportunity for walkers to explore the East Lothian countryside in the section between North Berwick and Dunbar. It takes you along the coast, past sandy beaches, cliffs and picturesque villages and showcases some of the area’s finest natural scenery. Muir himself was an interesting character who was largely responsible for the creation of the Sequoia and Yosemite national parks in California!
The Glen Golf Club
If you’re sitting in your Elm Bank holiday home wondering where you might be able to play a fantastic 18-holes, you won’t want to miss The Glen Golf Club. Known for a challenging course and outstanding coastal views overlooking the Firth of Forth, this 18-holer offers a unique combination of natural beauty and golfing challenge. The fairways and greens are very well-maintained, and the design of the course takes advantage of its seaside location. Several holes will give you awe-inspiring views of the Bass Rock and Tantallon Castle. Even if you’re not an avid golfer, it’s worth visiting the clubhouse at The Glen Golf Club to relax and take in the surrounding scenery.
Lodge Garden
A more relaxed pace is available at the Lodge Gardens, the park in North Berwick town centre. This well-maintained public space includes mature trees, vibrant flower beds and a tranquil pond, providing the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or even a picnic. The well-equipped children’s play area makes it the perfect spot to visit for families, while nature lovers will also find much to enjoy. The variety of plants and flowers that bloom throughout the year at Lodge Gardens provide a serene ambience – and the charming grounds are also home to several sculptures and monuments.
National Museum of Flight
The National Museum of Flight is at East Fortune, a former World War II airfield just a short drive from North Berwick, and offers a fascinating journey through aviation history. It boasts a collection of more than 50 military aircraft and commercial jets – including the Concorde, the legendary pointy-nosed supersonic passenger plane. There are interactive exhibits and displays around the museum, offering insight into aviation technology and Scotland’s role in airborne warfare.
North Berwick offers an exceptional range of activities and sights, making it an ideal day out (or two!) for anyone looking to explore natural beauty and rich history. From the stunning coastline and hiking trails to the historical castles and wildlife, when you own a holiday home at Elm Bank you’ll discover that North Berwick has something for everyone.