Our Tour recommendations are based on thousands of activities completed by other people on komoot.
Walks around East Lothian discover a stunning Firth of Forth coastline and the splendid countryside to the east of Edinburgh. Rural, rugged and beautiful, there’s plenty to explore. From rough headlands and steep little hills that give sensational sea views, to expeditions to ancient hill forts and castles, no two hikes are the same.
East Lothian’s wildlife-rich coast is the main draw for many. There are incredible sights offshore, such as the unmistakable form of Bass Rock, as well adventures on dramatic clifftops, long sandy beaches and wildflower-rich grasslands.
Hiking around East Lothian’s interior is just as spellbinding. Rolling pastures dotted with pretty villages give way to the little-frequented, yet utterly delightful Lammermuir Hills. Those who seek serenity will be amply rewarded by quiet trails far from the hustle and bustle of the nearby capital.
Expert | 00:52 1.67 mi | |
Intermediate | 02:52 6.85 mi | |
Easy | 01:39 3.95 mi | |
Expert | 01:57 4.13 mi | |
Intermediate | 02:05 4.96 mi | |
Intermediate | 02:04 5.06 mi | |
Intermediate | 03:11 7.16 mi | |
Intermediate | 03:43 8.92 mi | |
Easy | 01:48 4.35 mi | |
Intermediate | 03:29 8.37 mi | |
Intermediate | 03:28 8.38 mi | |
Easy | 01:19 3.14 mi | |
Easy | 01:47 4.28 mi | |
Easy | 01:35 3.76 mi | |
Intermediate | 02:29 5.93 mi | |
Intermediate | 02:27 5.81 mi | |
Intermediate | 02:09 5.23 mi | |
Expert | 05:11 10.5 mi | |
Easy | 01:41 3.97 mi | |
Easy | 01:10 2.80 mi |
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
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
Hiking Collection by komoot
Hiking Collection by komoot
Hiking Collection by komoot
Hiking Collection by Amalia Santiago
Hiking Collection by Amalia Santiago
Mountain Biking Collection by komoot
Road Cycling Collection by komoot
Bike Touring Collection by komoot
Running Collection by komoot
Didn’t find what you were looking for? Check out more Hikes throughout East Lothian below and find the perfect Tour in your destination.
Explore more of South Scotland: Browse the best Hikes in other regions.