Anchor Green
Witness Scotland's vibrant seabird colonies and charming coastal town, with boat tours offering close encounters with puffins and gannets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak seabird nesting season
Anchor Green
Best Time
Peak seabird nesting season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness Scotland's vibrant seabird colonies and charming coastal town, with boat tours offering close encounters with puffins and gannets.
"A truly mesmerising experience. If you are visiting this part of Scotland, we highly recommend booking one of these trips, it is unforgettable."
Book Boat Tours Ahead
Popular boat trips, especially for wildlife viewing, can sell out. Book in advance to secure your spot! :ticket:
Prepare for Bird Poop!
Seabird colonies are dense, so be prepared for a bit of bird droppings on your clothing or gear. :warning:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bass Rock Seabird Colony
Bass Rock Island
Witness thousands of seabirds nesting on Bass Rock, a truly impressive and mesmerizing sight.
Puffin Encounters
Various islands and boat tours
Spot adorable puffins in their natural habitat – a magical highlight for many visitors.
Three Islands Seabird Seafari
North Berwick Harbour
Embark on a RIB boat tour for an exhilarating and informative journey around the local islands.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Bird Sightings
Getting to North Berwick
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Tours Ahead
Popular boat trips, especially for wildlife viewing, can sell out. Book in advance to secure your spot! :ticket:
Prepare for Bird Poop!
Seabird colonies are dense, so be prepared for a bit of bird droppings on your clothing or gear. :warning:
Train to North Berwick
Easily reach North Berwick from Edinburgh by train for a convenient day trip. :train2:
Bring Your Camera
Capture stunning photos of the diverse birdlife and dramatic coastal scenery. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Tours Ahead
Popular boat trips, especially for wildlife viewing, can sell out. Book in advance to secure your spot! :ticket:
Prepare for Bird Poop!
Seabird colonies are dense, so be prepared for a bit of bird droppings on your clothing or gear. :warning:
Train to North Berwick
Easily reach North Berwick from Edinburgh by train for a convenient day trip. :train2:
Bring Your Camera
Capture stunning photos of the diverse birdlife and dramatic coastal scenery. :camerawithflash:
Support Conservation
Your visit and boat tour fees contribute to vital bird conservation efforts. :heart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Anchor Green and the surrounding North Berwick area for its breathtaking wildlife encounters, particularly the seabird colonies and puffin sightings. The boat tours are highly recommended for their informative guides and close-up views. The charming seaside town of North Berwick itself adds to the appeal, offering great food options and a relaxed atmosphere. Some minor drawbacks include the potential for bird droppings and unpredictable weather at sea.
"On Thursday, 24th July 2025, we booked a birdwatching experience with the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick. As we were visiting my son Kiro at St Andrews University, we took public transport to the centre and boarded one of their boats. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, which made the whole experience even more enjoyable.
We saw the islands of Craigleith and Bass Rock, where we were amazed to see thousands of birds nesting together in large colonies. The sight was truly impressive, and learning about the lighthouse's history added an extra layer of fascination. What struck most was how close we were able to get to the birds, it felt almost magical.
To our delight, we even spotted a puffin, which was such a highlight.
A truly mesmerising experience. If you are visiting this part of Scotland, we highly recommend booking one of these trips, it is unforgettable."
Paola De Paola Photography
"Just had a fab trip on a R.I.B..[Rigid Inflatable Boat!] On the "Three Islands Seabird Seafari!" Would highly recommend it.
The guide on the boat was very helpful, knowledgeable and friendly and willing to answer your questions.
The boat was alot more comfortable than I thought.
Took plenty of photos.
Got lucky with the weather.
Which is at the hands of mother nature.
Would definitely recommend it as youre also supporting a good cause...in terms of the conservation of birds."
Happy Snapper
"We did one of the boat tours - 1 hour around two islands- and it was fun. My 3 kids liked it.
Watch for bird poop!
Crazy amount of birds in early July"
Clint Childress
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Anchor Green in North Berwick from Edinburgh is by taking a train. The journey is direct and relatively short, making it a popular day trip option.
Yes, you can visit the islands near North Berwick without a car. The Scottish Seabird Centre offers various boat tours departing from the harbour, which is accessible by public transport.
While the Isle of May is a popular birdwatching destination, boat trips specifically from North Berwick to the Isle of May might be less frequent or require specific booking. It's best to check with the Scottish Seabird Centre or local tour operators for current schedules and options.
Taking the train to North Berwick is highly recommended for birdwatching trips, as it provides easy access to the harbour and tour departure points.
Absolutely! North Berwick is a fantastic day trip from Edinburgh, offering beautiful coastal scenery, wildlife encounters, and a charming seaside town atmosphere. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost of boat tours varies depending on the duration and destination. For example, the Bass Rock trip is competitively priced, and shorter island tours are also available. It's best to check the official website for current pricing.
While you can often purchase tickets for the Scottish Seabird Centre on the day, it's highly recommended to book boat tours in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
Opening hours for the Scottish Seabird Centre and its boat tours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on operating times and tour availability.
Yes, the Scottish Seabird Centre offers various boat tours, including trips to Bass Rock, the 'Three Islands Seabird Seafari', and potentially longer excursions to places like the Isle of May, with options for landing.
Information regarding admission fees for the discovery area at Anchor Green is not explicitly detailed in the provided content. However, boat tours are a primary attraction and have associated costs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Anchor Green is renowned for its incredible seabird colonies, including gannets, puffins, and many other species. You might also spot marine mammals like seals.
The Bass Rock photographic experience offers a unique opportunity to get close to the birdlife on Bass Rock. Staff are attentive and ensure the birds' welfare while providing a memorable experience.
Yes, many visitors find the boat tours enjoyable for children, with one reviewer mentioning their three kids loved the experience.
Dress in layers and wear waterproof clothing, as conditions at sea can be unpredictable. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are also recommended.
Yes, puffins are a highlight for many visitors, and sightings are common during the nesting season.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
North Berwick has several dining options, including The Lobster Shack for seafood and fish and chips, and Drift for brunch, offering a variety of choices for visitors. +2
North Berwick is known for its fresh seafood. The Lobster Shack is a popular spot for delicious seafood dishes and fish and chips. +1
Drift is frequently mentioned as a great brunch spot in North Berwick, offering a pleasant dining experience.
Yes, The Lobster Shack in North Berwick is a highly recommended spot for fish and chips and other seafood delights.
While specific family-friendly labels aren't given, the general atmosphere of North Berwick and options like The Lobster Shack suggest a welcoming environment for families. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The islands, especially Bass Rock, offer incredible opportunities for wildlife photography. The coastal scenery and the town itself also provide picturesque views.
Yes, many visitors successfully capture great photos of birds from the boat tours, even with just an iPhone. The Bass Rock photographic experience is specifically designed for this.
While a good zoom lens is beneficial for capturing distant birds, many visitors have had success with standard smartphone cameras for capturing the essence of the experience.
Yes, puffins are a popular subject for photographers, and sightings during boat tours provide excellent opportunities to capture their unique charm.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, especially for capturing the dramatic coastal landscapes and wildlife. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐦 Birdwatching Enthusiasts
📸 Photography Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring North Berwick's Coastal Charm
The town's proximity to Edinburgh, just a short train ride away, makes it incredibly accessible for those looking to experience Scotland's natural beauty without venturing too far from the city. This accessibility, combined with its scenic appeal, has cemented North Berwick's reputation as a top destination for both locals and tourists seeking a quintessential Scottish coastal experience.
Beyond its visual appeal, North Berwick offers a range of activities, from wildlife watching to enjoying local culinary delights. The town's welcoming ambiance and the stunning natural surroundings create a memorable experience for all who visit.
Seabird Spectacles: A Guide to Wildlife Tours
Beyond Bass Rock, various 'Seabird Seafari' tours explore other nearby islands like Craigleith and the Isle of May, each offering unique wildlife viewing possibilities. A particularly sought-after sighting is the adorable puffin, which can often be spotted during the spring and summer months. These tours are not only a fantastic way to see wildlife but also contribute to the conservation efforts aimed at protecting these precious marine ecosystems.
When planning your visit, it's crucial to book boat tours in advance, as they are highly popular and can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Remember to dress appropriately for the sea, with layers and waterproofs, and be prepared for the possibility of bird droppings – a small price to pay for such an extraordinary wildlife encounter.
Culinary Delights of North Berwick
For those seeking a delightful brunch experience, Drift is frequently recommended as a top spot in town. Its inviting atmosphere and quality offerings make it a popular choice for starting the day.
Beyond these specific recommendations, the town provides a variety of eateries catering to different tastes, ensuring visitors can enjoy satisfying meals after a day of exploring the coast and its wildlife. The culinary scene in North Berwick complements its scenic beauty, offering a well-rounded visitor experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit