Private East Lothian Full Day Tour-Personalised & Bespoke

**Discover the Hidden Gems of East Lothian: A Day Tour from Edinburgh**

East Lothian, with its contrasting coastal beauty and rich inland history, offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. Steeped in Scottish heritage and brimming with scenic wonders, this tour takes you through picturesque villages, ancient castles, and charming towns. Here's a glimpse of what awaits as we explore one of Scotland's most historically significant regions.

**Duddingston & Portobello**  

As we leave Edinburgh, we’ll travel through the quaint village of **Duddingston** and the charming seaside town of **Portobello**, before heading to the stunning village of **Aberlady**, where our East Lothian adventure truly begins.

**Dirleton Castle**  

Our first major stop is the 13th-century **Dirleton Castle**, the historic seat of the De Vaux family. This imposing fortress played a significant role in the Scottish Wars of Independence and was later damaged during the English Civil War under Oliver Cromwell’s siege. The crumbling ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into Scotland's medieval past.

**North Berwick**  

Next, we arrive in the picturesque coastal town of **North Berwick**, famed for its scenic harbor, fishing boats, and the volcanic **Bass Rock**, home to a vast colony of seabirds. Here, you’ll also learn about the infamous **North Berwick Witch Trials**, where over 70 women were tried under the orders of James VI, adding a dark but intriguing chapter to the town’s history.

**Tantallon Castle**  

As we continue along the coast, the dramatic ruins of **Tantallon Castle** come into view. This 14th-century fortress, perched on cliffs overlooking the sea, was the seat of the Earls of Angus and endured multiple sieges before it was finally destroyed by Cromwell in 1651. Its unique design and stunning views make it a must-see.

**Dunbar & John Muir**  

From there, we head to the town of **Dunbar**, birthplace of environmentalist John Muir. A visit to the **John Muir Birthplace Museum** offers insight into his early life and the journey that led him to become one of the most influential figures of the 20th century.

**Preston Mill**  

Next, we travel inland to **East Linton** and visit **Preston Mill**, an 18th-century watermill nestled among rolling hills. Its red-tiled roof and tranquil setting make it look straight out of a storybook. Though no longer in commercial use, the mill offers a fascinating look at rural life in centuries past.

**Hailes Castle**  

Our final stop is the hidden gem of **Hailes Castle**, a red-stone fortress along the banks of the River Tyne. Constructed between the 13th and 16th centuries, this lesser-known castle played a key role in Scotland's wars of independence. Explore its ruins and marvel at the strategic positioning that made it a prized stronghold.

**Return to Edinburgh**  

As we make our way back to Edinburgh, enjoy views of the city's skyline with landmarks like **Arthur’s Seat**, **Edinburgh Castle**, and the **Leith Docks**. On clear days, the **Forth Bridges** can be spotted in the distance, offering a perfect end to a memorable day.

**Optional Add-Ons**  

For those seeking more, we offer two optional stops:

- **Museum of Flight**: Aviation lovers can visit the National Museum of Flight at East Fortune, where you can step inside the world’s only commercial supersonic aircraft, **Concorde**.

- **Glenkinchie Distillery**: Whisky enthusiasts may prefer a tour of **Glenkinchie Distillery**, East Lothian’s only whisky distillery, known for its lowland malts and beautiful visitor experience.

Join us for an enriching and scenic journey through East Lothian, where Scotland’s rich history and natural beauty come alive!