Book an extraordinary winter break in East Lothian
Snuggle up at one of East Lothian’s many B&Bs, hotels or quirky self-catering cottages with real log fires. And find out why the region is known as Scotland’s food and drink county with everything from the best fine dining to trendy-but-friendly foodie cafes.
With activities on offer from sporting heritage and whisky experiences to nature excursions and amazing events, it really is the best place to experience an extraordinary break this winter.
Where to stay
It’s time to get toasty in your own private castle at Fenton Tower, where a warm Scottish welcome, simple luxury and comfortable surroundings awaits. Just 18 miles east of Edinburgh, amenities in this magnificent 16th century tower include roll-top baths, four-poster beds and a roaring log fire in the Great Hall.
Snuggle down at Luffness Mains, a beautiful 16th-century farmhouse overlooking open countryside and tucked well away from busy roads, where the log fire keeps the house warm and inviting. This friendly B&B is just minutes from the nearby village of Aberlady and the town of Gullane.
Or enjoy a unique accommodation experience on board a choice of luxury & rustic cosy converted buses with log burning stoves at The Bus Stop. The site’s recycled, handcrafted accommodation is housed on a working farm in Gifford with beautiful panoramic views of the Lammermuir Hills, in the stunning East Lothian countryside. Here you can also enjoy campfires, starry nights and wood fired hot tubs.
Find more inspiration for your extraordinary winter stay at www.visiteastlothian.org/stay
Where to eat
Whatever your tastes, you are sure to eat and drink some of the finest produce in East Lothian, from the best Scottish whisky, gin and fruit liqueurs to award-winning butchers and freshly caught seafood.
Make the most of the mouth-watering fare at the Bonnie Badger, a proud holder of a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand and 5 AA Gold Stars, in the coastal village of Gullane for a stylish dining experience. Head chef Matthew and his team remain true to their ethos of championing seasonal produce and working closely with local producers and farmers.
Or sample North Berwick lobster, fish and chips, seafood platters and mussels mariniere at the down-to-earth and likeable Rocketeer Restaurant located at the entrance to the harbour in North Berwick.
Whisky lovers won’t want to miss having a warming dram at the new development at Glenkinchie Distillery – the lowland home of Johnnie Walker whisky. Explore the Victorian distillery and orchard gardens set amidst the abundant farmland and sweet-scented wildflowers of East Lothian, a mere 15 miles from Edinburgh, for a wonderful sensory experience to learn how they create their rare Lowland-style whisky.
For more ideas on great places to eat out and pick up the best produce in East Lothian, from cafes and pubs to markets, delis and farm shops, visit www.visiteastlothian.org/food-and-drink
What to do
Scots are world renowned for their winter celebrations, and East Lothian offers some of the best.
Celebrate St Andrews day and the very best of Scottish history, heritage, culture, film, music and food in the home of Scotland’s iconic Saltire Flag at the Saltire Festival from 24 to 30 November 2021.
Enjoy a fabulous traditional pantomime at The Brunton theatre and entertainment venue in Musselburgh from 7 to 31 December 2021. This year’s show tells the story of Hansel and Gretel.
Or experience the magic of Christmas at East Lothian’s first winter wonderland in the grounds of the beautiful Gosford House near Longniddry from 17 to 23 December. With vintage fairground rides, festive woodland train rides, a Christmas tree maze, warming food and drink, a Scottish marketplace and the county’s first ever FEAST event showcasing the very best of local produce, there really is something for everyone.
There’s lots of fantastic places for extraordinary days out all year round in East Lothian.
For sports fans, Musselburgh Links is the world’s oldest golf course, having hosted the Open Championship on six occasions between 1874 and 1889. Open to the public all year round, visitors are welcome to experience a piece of golfing history; for an extraordinary golfing experience, play the way it was intended with original Hickory golf clubs which have been traditionally crafted and restored.
Explore the history of aviation, uncover unforgettable stories and discover one of Europe's best collections of aircraft at the National Museum of Flight. There’s plenty to discover with three hands-on galleries, including the chance to climb on board Scotland's only Concorde.
Escape to Hailes Castle, hidden in the pretty valley of the River Tyne, or experience the tranquillity of Inveresk Lodge Garden just outside Edinburgh.
Discover the wonders of marine life on Edinburgh’s coastline with the Scottish Seabird Centre where the Discovery Experience allows you to see the world’s largest Northern gannet colony and brings to life the wonders of Scotland's exceptional marine habitats and wildlife.
Book your break today
With over 40 miles of stunning coastline, golden beaches, rolling countryside, award-winning attractions, excellent food and drink and the world’s finest links golf courses, East Lothian offers the very best of Scotland.
Visit www.visiteastlothian.org to plan no ordinary winter escape to East Lothian. Please respect the beautiful countryside and Love East Lothian responsibly.