Full-Day Trip: Sands and Castles of East Lothian from Edinburgh
Overview
Available languages
8 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Follow the breathtaking East Lothian coastline for a fantastic blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Enjoy the first stop at Archerfield Walled Garden. A unique destination in the heart of the beautiful East Lothian countryside, with lovingly tended Gardens, extensive grounds, Garden Café, Shop and Food Market, there is lots to see and do
Spend time exploring the well preserved castles of Dirleton and Tantallon. Gain insights to medieval life and architecture as you roam the castle grounds.
Free time for lunch in North Berwick. Once a royal burgh, the town boasts a picturesque high street, beautiful sandy beaches and a relaxing atmosphere.
A final stop on the way home at Athelstaneford, the birthplace of the Scottish Flag where you will learn about the battle between the Picts and the Angles, the vision of King Angus, and how the Scottish Saltire came to life.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travel time is added to the total tour duration
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Scenic tour through the County of East Lothian
Regular stops for photos and rest breaks
Air-conditioned vehicle
Time to explore Yellowcraig and Seacliff beaches
Services of an English-speaking driver guide
Food and drink
Individual hotel / multi-point pick-ups and drop-off
What To Expect
Archerfield Walled Garden
Archerfield Walled Garden is a unique destination in the heart of the beautiful East Lothian countryside. Close to the seaside towns of Gullane and North Berwick and just 20 miles from the centre of Edinburgh, it’s the perfect place for a stop to grab some refreshments. With lovingly tended Gardens, extensive grounds, Garden Café, Shop and Food Market, there is lots to see and do. Families will love the woodland Fairy Trail and enclosed play area. Whether you’re a garden enthusiast looking for inspiration or a foodie looking for delicious brunch, you will love what’s on offer here.
Dirleton Castle
The first stop on our journey brings us to the well preserved Dirleton Castle. The castle is located at the heart of the rich agricultural lands of the barony of Dirleton, and guards the coastal approach to Edinburgh from England, via the port of North Berwick. You will have the chance to roam through the beautiful gardens, gaining insights into medieval life and architecture
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Full-Day Trip: Sands and Castles of East Lothian from Edinburgh
Reviews
32 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A great day!
margaret s,
Sep 4, 2025
- Viator
5.00We had a wonderful time touring castles, walking on the beach on the Firth of Forth and seeing some unique animals like Clydesdales and the stars of the show, the Highland cattle. Along the way, our guide Keith was very informative and enthusiastic about the Scottish history (and pretty funny, too). Our only regret: One in our party left an empty water bottle on the van. Sorry to make you clean up after us, Keith.
Phil was a great tour...
Joanne H,
Aug 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00Phil was a great tour guide! Interesting stories / history and made sure we were comfortable throughout the journey with as much time as possible at the stops. It was a perfect little getaway from the city!
Amazing tour
Jaques d,
Aug 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00Fantastic tour with a great guide. Keith was really receptive, attentive and informative. The places and locations are great with plenty of time to walk around and see history, beaches and castles
Incredible experience
Derya G,
Jul 18, 2025
- Viator
5.00Incredible!! This was an amazing tour, full with beautiful places by the Beach. You should book this tour! It is really informative, too and gave me more insight about the rest of Scotland! Also tour guide Neil is such an amazing, nice guy and so enthusiastic about the whole tour! Thank you for making me love Scotland even more (than I already did)!😊
Shorelines and castles of Scotland
Natalie R,
Jul 5, 2025
- Viator
5.00This small group tour was absolutely Amazing! Phil led us on a relaxed journey through ancient castles along the coast of East Lothian. The quaint fishing village of North Berwick was perfection and Phil’s knowledge of Scotland made history come alive!
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Operated by Stewart Tours