East Lothian Coastal Path Gullane
Discover the stunning beauty of East Lothian's coastline, from the expansive sands of Gullane Beach to historic castle ruins.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
East Lothian Coastal Path Gullane
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the stunning beauty of East Lothian's coastline, from the expansive sands of Gullane Beach to historic castle ruins.
"Amazing beach, stunning clear warm water!"
Pack for wind! :cloud:
Even on sunny days, the coast can be breezy. Layers are key for comfort.
Dog-friendly paradise :dog:
This is a fantastic spot for dogs, with plenty of space to roam and explore. [^Review]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gullane Beach
Gullane
Expansive sandy shores with stunning views, perfect for relaxing, dog walks, and enjoying the sea breeze.
Yellowcraigs
Between North Berwick and Gullane
A picturesque spot offering a mix of beach and grassy walks with beautiful coastal vistas.
Saltcoats Castle Ruins
South of Gullane
Explore the atmospheric remnants of a historic castle, offering a glimpse into the past amidst nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Elements
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for wind! :cloud:
Even on sunny days, the coast can be breezy. Layers are key for comfort.
Dog-friendly paradise :dog:
This is a fantastic spot for dogs, with plenty of space to roam and explore. [^Review]
Check tide times :ocean:
Tides can affect beach access, so it's wise to check before you go. [^Review]
Parking considerations :car:
There's parking, but a 2m height restriction applies. Arrive early for the best spots. [^Review]
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for wind! :cloud:
Even on sunny days, the coast can be breezy. Layers are key for comfort.
Dog-friendly paradise :dog:
This is a fantastic spot for dogs, with plenty of space to roam and explore. [^Review]
Check tide times :ocean:
Tides can affect beach access, so it's wise to check before you go. [^Review]
Parking considerations :car:
There's parking, but a 2m height restriction applies. Arrive early for the best spots. [^Review]
Nature's art :art:
Keep an eye out for local wildlife like peacock butterflies!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking views and cleanliness of Gullane Beach, highlighting it as a perfect day trip from Edinburgh. Many appreciate the dog-friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to find a quiet spot to relax. While generally positive, some note it can be a bit windy and occasionally not the cleanest, with parking having a height restriction.
"Nice and clean. Breathtaking views, always a chance to find a cosy spot to sit and relax, and not overcrowded, dog-friendly. There are toilets and showers on site."
Ksya Chanchikova
"Great beach for relaxing 😎 Perfect for day trip from Edinburgh. I extremely recommend it."
Diego Conti Pereira
"I love this beach and often take my dog there for walks. The views are spectacular and the beach is very clean. As well as walks along the sand it also has walks over grassland that offer a different experience. It’s an amazing place that I can easily sit on one of the rockier editions just watching the day go by.
Lots of parking although height restriction of 2m."
Dave Beggs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by car, taking approximately 30-40 minutes. Public transport options include buses that run from Edinburgh to Gullane.
Yes, there is parking available, but be aware of a 2-meter height restriction. It can get busy, so arriving early is recommended. [^Review]
Absolutely! The area is popular with cyclists, and there are scenic routes to explore.
Yes, facilities including toilets and showers are available on-site. [^Review]
The coastal path itself offers stunning walks. Yellowcraigs is also a highly recommended low-level option for families.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Gullane Beach and the East Lothian Coastal Path is generally free. [^Review]
The coastal path is accessible at all times, though facilities like toilets may have specific hours. [^Review]
No advance booking is required for general access to the beach or coastal path. [^Review]
The main restriction to be aware of is the 2m height limit for parking. Otherwise, it's open for all to enjoy. [^Review]
Yes, the path offers various sections, with many parts being low-level and suitable for families with children.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can relax on the sand, walk your dog, enjoy the views, and explore the surrounding grasslands. [^Review]
It can get busy on sunny weekends, but it's generally not overcrowded, offering plenty of space to find a quiet spot. [^Review]
Keep an eye out for local birdlife and butterflies, especially peacock butterflies in warmer months.
While not directly on the path, Gullane village offers dining options. East Linton has unique spots like a Chinese takeaway with seating on a double-decker bus.
The water is described as clear and warm, making it suitable for swimming for those who don't mind the coastal conditions. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the expansive beach, dramatic skies, coastal landscapes, and the charming village of Gullane.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for landscape shots.
The beach itself, the surrounding dunes, and the distant views of the Bass Rock are popular subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can capture distant details. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the sea.
Always check local drone regulations before flying. Respect privacy and wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing along activities like sandcastle building tools or a kite. The ruins of Saltcoats Castle can also be an intriguing spot for imaginative play, even in its ruined state.
🐶 Dog Owners
The varied terrain, from sandy beaches to grassy areas, provides diverse sniffing and running opportunities. Just be mindful of other beach users and ensure your dog is under control, especially around wildlife. Remember to bring water for your dog and a bag for any waste.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Consider bringing a good book or simply enjoying the sounds of the sea. The path is well-maintained in many sections, making it safe for solo exploration. Remember to inform someone of your plans and carry a fully charged phone for safety.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Gullane Beach
Beyond the sandy shores, the area features grassy dunes and surrounding parkland, providing varied walking experiences. This makes it more than just a beach; it's a destination for gentle exploration and enjoying the natural coastal environment. [^Review]
Key features include ample parking (with a height restriction), on-site toilets, and showers, making it a convenient and comfortable visit. [^Review] The beach is also known for its dog-friendly atmosphere, ensuring your furry companions can enjoy the outing too. [^Review]
Family-Friendly Walks
TikTok creators often highlight the natural beauty and opportunities for interaction, such as land art and wildlife spotting.
These elements can add an extra layer of engagement for children, turning a simple walk into an adventure. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, and check the weather, as coastal conditions can change rapidly. Exploring the ruins of Saltcoats Castle, though overgrown, can also spark the imagination of younger visitors, offering a touch of history and mystery to the outing.
Photography Opportunities
Early mornings and late afternoons, during the 'golden hours,' offer the most flattering light, casting a warm glow over the scenery. Popular subjects include the sweeping sands of Gullane Beach, the distant silhouette of Bass Rock, and the interplay of light and shadow on the dunes.
For those interested in capturing unique perspectives, consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the landscape or a telephoto lens to focus on distant features. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the sky and sea.
Remember to always be mindful of the weather, as dramatic skies can add significant impact to your photographs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit