The Bass Rock seen from the Seafari Explorer - Seabird Cruise
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
10 Exciting outdoor activities to do in East Lothian
Hungry for a weekend of adventure? East Lothian certainly doesn't disappoint when it comes to all things outdoors. Whether you're looking to take to the skies on a microlight experience, try your hand at making woodland crafts, or ride horseback along stretches of white sand, it is the perfect destination when it comes to sampling the delights of Scotland's east coast.
To make things easier for you, we've compiled some of our favourite activities and turned it into an epic weekend itinerary. With lots of things to see and do for a tempting weekend away, how could you resist? Remember to plan and book ahead to avoid disappointment.
- Start / Finish
- North Berwick / Dunbar
- Days2
- Distance49Miles78km
- TransportCar
- Main themeActivities
- Highlights
- Woodland crafts
- Microlight experiences
- Boat trips
- Horse riding
- Watersports
- Alpaca trekking
- Areas covered
- East
Day 1North Berwick and Dunbar
Next up on our whistle-stop tour of East Lothian is North Berwick and Dunbar. Renowned as a haven for wildlife, we're heading to the Scottish Seabird Centre for a boat trip to the three islands - The Lamb, Craigleith and the Bass Rock. Voyage to discover East Lothian's wonderful wildlife and panoramic coastline where you'll search for puffins, gannets, dolphins and much more. Giddy-up at Seacliff Stables for an exhilarating gallop along the beach before we end the day at Foxlake Adventures in Dunbar.
Scottish Seabird Centre North Berwick
The award-winning Scottish Seabird Centre
First up on our list of attractions for today is the Scottish Seabird Centre. The Discovery Experience is currently closed but when the exhibition space reopens, 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 the interactive live cameras and zoom in on all the action. Make sure to pop into the café and shop which are both open as normal. It's a great stop for a tasty bite to eat and for treating yourself or loved ones to a special gift.
Looking to take advantage of the nicer weather? The Scottish Seabird Centre run 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 great 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.
Enjoy a visit to the Scottish Seabird CentreThe Harbour,North Berwick,EH39 4SSSeacliff Stables North Berwick
Horse riding Blackstone Clydesdales on Ayr beach
© VisitScotland / Visit South West Scotland / Damian Shields
Top TipWhen booking a horse-riding session, please make sure that you have the following details at hand:
- Rider's weight
- Rider's height
- Rider's ability level
Do you ever wish of galloping across white, sandy beaches on horseback? Now is your time to live that dream! Saddle up with Seacliff Stables and enjoy a wee slice of paradise while riding through scenic countryside and beaches. Popular rides amongst visitors include Tantallon Castle, Seacliff Beach and the world-famous Bass Rock. 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.
Find out more about Seacliff StablesFoxlake Adventures Dunbar
Foxlake Adventures
We're nearing towards the end of our penultimate day in East Lothian, but that doesn't mean the fun has to stop. Visit Scotland's first cable wakeboard park at Foxlake Adventures. With its scenic woodland backdrop and plethora of outdoor activities, the attraction is a great place for thrill-seeking adventures. Jump on the wakeboarding craze and take on a series of on-water obstacle courses, go wild swimming in the lake or embrace your inner Tarzan by ziplining through the treetops on the ZipTrail.
Find out more about Foxlake AdventuresFoxlake,Dunbar,EH42 1XF
Day 2Alpacas, surfing, paddleboarding and nature boat tours
We think meeting cute and fluffy animals is a nice way to start the day, that's why we've made sure to include this in our itinerary! Take a walk with your new alpaca friend at John Muir Alpacas. You'll feed them lots of tasty treats and don't forget to grab a selfie before you go. In the afternoon, it's time to put on your wetsuit for a paddleboarding session at Ocean Vertical and learn how to surf with Coast to Coast Surf School. We also have another opportunity for you to climb aboard and set sail to some of the East Coast's natural wonders.
John Muir Alpacas Dunbar
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Top TipJohn Muir Alpacas offer mini treks and kids sessions for children and for those who have mobility issues. The outings are slightly shorter in comparison to the regular sessions but are just as much fun!
You could go for a walk with the whole family, but wouldn't it be better with a fluffy companion by your side? If the answer is yes, get ready to say hello to your new alpaca friend at John Muir Alpacas. Take a picturesque stroll through the woodlands before heading back to the paddock to feed them some tasty treats. During your walk there are many opportunities for selfies; make sure to pull some of your best faces and get ready to strike a pose!
Find out more about John Muir AlpacasOcean Vertical Belhaven
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If you simply can't get enough of the water, then you're in luck! This trip to East Lothian is topped off nicely by coasteering in Dunbar. Climb, jump and swim for an exhilarating adventure around some of the inaccessible parts of East Lothian's coastline. You'll also be exposed to a variety of wildlife including puffins, gannets, seals and even dolphins.
Looking for something less strenuous? Let your paddleboard become your yoga mat with SUP yoga. Not only is it a great way to keep fit but the gentle lapping of the water creates the perfect ambience.
Find out more about Ocean VerticalCoast to Coast Surf School Belhaven
West Bay Beach, North Berwick
© VisitScotland / Grant Paterson
Surf's up! 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.
Find out more about Coast to Coast Surf SchoolBlueWild - Nature Tours Dunbar
Puffin on the Isle of May, Fife
Before you head back home, there is one final chance to squeeze in another boat tour with BlueWild. 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.
Find out more about BlueWild nature boat tours
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