10 Incredible things to do in East Lothian

The Scottish Seabird Centre is the ideal place to get to know more about the wonderful marine life who reside on Scotland's East Coast. Take a closer look at what they're up to with interactive live cameras and zoom in on all the action. The interactive Discovery Experience is full of exciting exhibits, games, and films that allow you to dive in deeper for a closer look at deep sea corals, marine mammals, seabird colonies and more. The centre also runs a fantastic offering of wildlife boat tours from spring to autumn. The Three Islands Seabird Seafari and the Isle of May boat trips are a wonderful way to see a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat, as well as having time to explore the natural wonders of the islands themselves. See puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes in all their glory.

Make sure to pop into the café and shop - a great stop for a tasty bite to eat and for treating yourself or loved ones to a special gift.

Do you ever dream of galloping across white, sandy beaches on horseback? Now is your time to live that dream! Located just 2 miles past North Berwick, saddle up with Seacliff Stables and enjoy a wee slice of paradise while riding through scenic countryside and beaches. This family-run stables offers up a variety of rides to visitors, the most popular ones include seeing Tantallon Castle, Seacliff Beach and the world-famous Bass Rock enroute. Don't worry if this is your first time or you're a nervous rider, the horses are well trained, and you'll be in good hands no matter what your riding ability is.

Surf's up! Get outdoors and ride the waves at Belhaven Beach in Dunbar. Coast to Coast Surf School offer a wide range of classes; for beginners, intermediates and for those who simply wish to hone their skills. Forgot your kit? No problem! They'll be able to provide you with all the essential equipment - just remember to bring your swimsuit and suncream during the summer months. If you fancy trying out another watersport, there are plenty of options to choose from including stand-up paddleboarding and coasteering.

If one lesson isn’t enough, get involved in their 5-star surf camps. These 6-day experiences allow you to fully immerse yourself in surfing, all whilst learning from the best experienced instructors and making new friends along the way.

While away the hours on a sea-watching tour where you'll be greeted by diving gannets, puffins, and a friendly dolphin or two. Fancy staying that wee bit later? Chase the sunset to the Isle of May or Bass Rock - a must for wildlife enthusiasts looking for the perfect photo opportunity.

Head to North Berwick or Dunbar where BlueWild Nature Tours offers up a thrilling day out on the water. Choose from short boat trips, longer day tours, and photography trips focussed on nature, history, ornithology, sightseeing and storytelling.

Budding pilots and those interested in aviation will love a day out at the National Museum of Flight. Located in East Fortune, the museum is home to Scotland’s only Concorde – climb inside and see what flying on a transatlantic flight was like. Explore the Civil Aviation Hangar which hosts a range of civilian aircrafts, including aeroplanes, autogyros, and hang-gliders. In the Military Aviation Hangar, uncover aircrafts used in war, the history of air-to-air weapons, and much more.

Whilst you’re here, explore the museum trails, head out onto the historic airfield, and browse the galleries and displays to learn more about Scottish aircrafts.

Dunbar Cliff Top Trail is a fantastic way to visit various viewpoints and attractions in the town, all whilst taking in spectacular coastal scenery. Starting at John Muir’s Birthplace Museum you can learn all about Muir’s adventures and travels that took him across the globe. From there, walk to Cromwell & Victoria Harbours and ‘The Battery’, a defensive structure built in the late 1700s, before heading to Dunbar Castle. Once you’ve explored this14th century stronghold, walk along the coast to Baird Promenade before enjoying the sandy shore of Belhaven Bay – a perfect destination for surfing and making sandcastles.

If you’ve ever thought about learning how to sail, you’re in the right place. Based in North Berwick, the East Lothian Yacht Club hosts adult sailing courses across the summer months where you can learn the basics over the course of 4 or 5 days. These are ideal for complete beginners and will give you the confidence and skills you need to take a boat out on the water yourself.

Get the kids involved with the junior summer school, or if you’re looking for more than just sailing, you can enjoy courses to learn how to operate powerboats and dinghies too.

On an otherwise flat landscape, North Berwick Law is a steep conical hill that stretches to 187 m (614 ft). Boasting incredible panoramic views across East Lothian and beyond to Fife, it’s a rewarding climb to the top. At the summit you’ll find a replica whale’s jawbone, which replaced a set of jawbones that had been located here for 250 years! The path to the top and back down again consists of clear pavements and steep grassy climbs.

Get in touch with your adventurous side with Ocean Vertical. These outdoor experts specialise in paddle boarding, coasteering, surfing, climbing, and mountaineering in East Lothian and across Scotland throughout the year.

The kids will love the Adventure Camp – a unique pairing with Foxlake Adventure where you can experience the best of the outdoor pursuits in the area, make friends along the way, and learn from highly qualified instructors. If you’d rather keep your feet on dry land, you can also enjoy axe throwing and archery, or for something more relaxed, try the yoga and surf day retreat.

Get up close to this herd of more than 50 alpacas located in the idyllic countryside of East Lothian near John Muir Country Park. Head out on trails and walks with these furry, friendly creatures on a range of activities and experiences. Explore the Beach and Woodland Trail, the kids will love the mini-treks, or enjoy the mini-trek with picnic time – great for birthday parties, family trips and more!