East Lothian
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About East Lothian
East Lothian has more golf courses, including world famous ones, for it's size than anywhere else in the world making it the ideal vacation destination for the golfer, with 19 courses in total. However the coastal strip and hinterland of East Lothian offers much more for you to enjoy your visit to Scotland and being only a very short distance from Edinburgh (7 miles) it is often referred to as the "home counties" of Edinburgh. East Lothian is a sub-division of the ancient Celtic province of Lothian (the others being Midlothian and West Lothian).
Popular with tourists are the charming harbour towns of Dunbar and the Victorian and Edwardian North Berwick of which little remains of the original medieval town. Other attractive coastal villages include; Aberlady, Dirleton, Gullane and Longniddry. Venture inland and there are a number of towns and villages worth a visit including; Athelstaneford, East Linton, Gifford, Ormiston, Pencaitland, Wallyford and Whitecraig.
Musselburgh is the largest town of the county and is almost joined to Edinburgh. Popular with many for its famous Musselburgh Racecourse, one of the busiest in Scotland, Musselburgh has, possibly, the longest history of any town in Scotland. The Musselburgh Links claims to be the oldest playing golf course in the world and this is supported by fact and legend. It is believed that Mary Queen of Scots played there in 1567 but the earliest documentary evidence that exists shows that golf was played there since 1672.
Haddington, though smaller than Musselburgh, is the administrative capital of East Lothian. Extremely popular with tourists Haddington has a strong mix of architectural styles ranging from the 17th to the 19th Centuries with most of interest having decorative and informative plaque. If you plan to visit Haddington as part of your tour of Scotland you should allow around three hours to explore the town.
Things to see and do around East Lothian
Tantallon Castle, 3 miles from North Berwick, was the stronghold of the Douglas family until ruined by Cromwell's army in 1650. Standing upon dramatic cliffs the castle was originally built, by William, 1st Earl of Douglas, in the 14th Century. The castle was remodelled and further strengthened in the 16th Century by King James V who enlarged gatehouse tower. Outstanding views of Bass Rock.
Tel: 01620 892727
East Lothian Links
East Lothian Council
The official site for East Lothian Council.
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