The best walks and hikes in East Lothian

Exploring the birthplace of John Muir

East Lothian was the birthplace of John Muir, a man often referred to as ‘the father of the national parks,’ due to his efforts to conserve wilderness areas in his adopted United States. The John Muir Way was created in his honour in 2014, a 130-mile (215 km) coast-to-coast route that links Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park to Dubar, the town where he was born in 1838.

The route traces much of the region’s stunning 40 miles (64 km) of coast, so it’s likely you will encounter the Way during your walks around East Lothian. Also named in tribute to Muir is the 1,763-acre (714 ha) John Muir Country Park, which stretches from Pfeffer Sands to the historic Dunbar Castle. The saltmarshes, coastal dunes, rocky shorelines, woodland and grassland here teem with life.

The rugged Firth of Forth coast

The towns of Dubar, North Berwick and Musselburgh make for great bases from which to explore this rugged coast’s many scenic bays and dramatic headlands. There’s plenty to discover in and around the towns too, with castles to visit, beaches to stroll upon, harbours to explore and unique local establishments have a mosey in. North Berwick even has its own little conical hill, North Berwick Law, which rises conspicuously above the coast to 613 feet (187 m) and rewards with stupendous views.

Several islands can be seen from the mainland. The steep-sided Bass Rock is a magnificent sight on many coastal walks around East Lothian. This distinctively humped island is home to the largest gannet colony in the world. Wildlife is a constant feature by the sea here. Grey seals can often be seen, while flocks of migratory birds arrive through the seasons. 

Serene countryside and the Lammermuir Hills

For those who love tranquil, rolling countryside, the best hiking routes around East Lothian are found inland. The coast gives way to the green foothills of the Lammermuir Hills, which rise steadily to form the barrier between East Lothian and the Scottish Borders to the south. The landscape is delightfully rural with many attractive villages, prehistoric forts, small castles and ancient trade routes to discover.