10 beautiful but lesser-known villages within easy driving distance from Edinburgh
The city of Edinburgh features many beautiful sights but is also surrounded by breathtaking countryside villages that are perfect for when you need a break from the city.
Edinburgh is famed for its rich history; tourists flock every year to see the castle and hear the piper play Scotland the Brave down the Royal Mile, but there are so many beautiful spots outside of the city that are well worth making the trip to see. Here are our top 10 breathtaking villages within driving distance from Edinburgh that you may not have heard of.
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5. Pencaitland
Found in East Lothian, six miles south of Haddington, Pencaitland is known best for the beautiful Winton House, a historical castle which is available to hire out for events such as weddings and family holidays. The village is split in two and known as Easter Pencaitland and Wester Pencaitland, it is divided by the Tyne Water which features a three-arched bridge dating back to the 16th century. By car it will take you between 30 and 40 minutes to reach Pencaitland from the city of Edinburgh.
Photo: JPIMedia
6. Crail
A gorgeous fishing village found in Fife, Crail is home to one of the United Kingdom's most photographed harbours. You can enjoy freshly caught seafood throughout the summer and experience the Crail Food Festival every June, coronavirus permitting unfortunately. From Edinburgh, Crail is roughly an hour and a half drive making it the furthest away destination on our list.
Photo: Dave Fergusson
7. Winchburgh
Found in West Lothian, Winchburgh is known for its spectacular countryside. Like many West Lothian towns, Winchburgh had a thriving shale oil industry in the 19th century, remnants of the mines can be seen in the form of distinctive red hill formations across the landscape. The brick rows of miners' cottages can also still be found in Winchburgh, although now converted into modern homes. From the city of Edinburgh it takes just under an hour to reach Winchburgh.
Photo: JPIMedia
8. Aberlady
Found in East Lothian, Aberlady is a picturesque coastal village known for its spectacular golfing scene. The coast is a nationally recognised refuge for thousands of geese that migrate here in the winter from Europe. It's a 40 minute car journey from Edinburgh to Aberlady.
Photo: JPIMedia