City & Cove · Edinburgh & East Lothian

East Lothian towns & villages: where to explore

Pick a small area each day and leave time to stop. East Lothian rewards a slower itinerary: a harbour, a high street or a coastal walk can be enough for a memorable afternoon.

Port Seton and Cockenzie

These neighbouring coastal communities are a natural starting point for a Seton Sands break. Explore the harbour setting and take time to look around rather than rushing straight into Edinburgh. Visit East Lothian describes them as two connected fishing villages with two harbours. Explore Port Seton and Cockenzie ↗.

Longniddry, Aberlady and Gullane

These names are useful to know when planning a western East Lothian coastal day or a golf trip. Choose one as your main stop, then add another only if it suits your time and transport. Longniddry also has a rail station for Edinburgh trips; the station and your accommodation are separate parts of the journey.

North Berwick and Dirleton

Consider this part of the county for a day that balances a town visit with the surrounding coast. Keep plans flexible and check access or opening arrangements for any attraction you want to add. North Berwick is also a name to include in your golf research.

Dunbar, East Linton and the eastern villages

For a stay around Thurston Manor, begin your planning with Dunbar and then consider East Linton or another nearby village. Give yourself enough time in one place rather than making every stop a quick photograph. Dunbar station is a separate option for an Edinburgh day.

Haddington and an inland day

Add Haddington when you want to explore inland rather than spending every day on the coast. Gifford, Pencaitland, Ormiston and Tranent are other names to research depending on your interests and the direction you are travelling. Official East Lothian town and village guide ↗.

Choose a route that suits your stay

A car can make a multi-village day more flexible, while a single destination may be easier by public transport. Check bus connections for the specific places you choose; the 26 does not serve every village listed here. For transport options, station links and advice on planning your return journey, see our getting around guide ↗.

Fringe by the Sea, North Berwick

Bring music, comedy and family events into your coastal break. Fringe by the Sea is an independent multi-arts festival in North Berwick, with its 2027 dates announced as 30 July–8 August 2027. Choose events to suit your group and leave time to explore the town around them.

Check the official Fringe by the Sea website ↗ for the programme, ticket availability, venues and access information. Festival tickets are separate from your accommodation booking.

Staying elsewhere in East Lothian? Plan the full journey to North Berwick and your return after the final event. The 26 bus does not provide a direct service to North Berwick; check onward connections or compare rail and taxi options for your particular property. See our transport guide ↗ and check current services before travelling.

Travel and event information checked 2 November 2026. Follow the official links for current times, dates, access and availability.