Edinburgh: East Lothian Highlights

5.0
(66 reviews)
Edinburgh, Scotland

8 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

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.

A photo stop 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.

Preston Mill is a beautifully preserved 18th-century watermill in East Lothian, famous for its Outlander connection, peaceful setting, and distinctive waterwheel.

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.

Spend time exploring the well preserved Tantallon Castle. Gain insights to medieval life and architecture as you roam the castle grounds.

What's Included

Scenic tour through the County of East Lothian
Regular stops for photos and rest breaks
Air-conditioned vehicle
Services of an English-speaking driver guide
Food and drink
Individual hotel / multi-point pick-ups and drop-off
Attraction entrance fees

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
17 Charlotte Square

Meet the driver/guide at Charlotte Square* for check in at 8:45am for a sharp 9:00am departure. *The bus stop outside the National Records of Scotland (17 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh, EH2 4DJ) is the exact location of departure.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1

    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.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    The wee village of Athelstaneford which is known for its connection to the Scottish flag. According to popular legend, the original Scottish saltire - the white diagonal cross on a sky blue background - was first adopted here. A visit to the National Flag Heritage Centre will provide more insight.

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Preston Mill is one of East Lothian’s most charming and atmospheric landmarks, offering visitors a rare glimpse into Scotland’s rural past. Built in the 18th century and still fully intact, this historic watermill sits beside a peaceful millpond and is famous for its unusual red-tiled roof and distinctive external waterwheel. Surrounded by quiet countryside, the mill feels almost frozen in time and is especially loved by fans of Outlander, as it appeared as Lallybroch Mill in the series. Today, Preston Mill remains a beautifully preserved reminder of traditional milling life and is one of the most photographed and evocative heritage sites in the region.

    1 hour Admission ticket not included
  • 4

    This seaside town is a former royal burgh. It is situated on the south shore of the Firth of Forth, approximately 20 miles (32 km) east-northeast of Edinburgh. North Berwick became a fashionable holiday resort in the nineteenth century because of its two sandy bays, the East (or Milsey) Bay and the West Bay, and continues to attract holidaymakers. You can spend your time here meandering the streets, wandering along the beach on the East Bay, or by popping into the the Scottish Seabird Centre to learn about the wildlife in this area.

    1 hour 45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Tantallon Castle is a ruined mid-14th-century fortress, located 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) east of North Berwick. It sits atop a promontory opposite the Bass Rock, looking out onto the Firth of Forth. The last medieval curtain wall castle to be constructed in Scotland, Tantallon comprises a single wall blocking off the headland, with the other three sides naturally protected by sea cliffs. The views from the castle across the Firth of Forth do not disappoint.

    1 hour Admission ticket not included

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Travel time is added to the total tour duration
Supplied by Stewart Tours

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Historical Tours
Likely to Sell Out

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 66 66 reviews
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