Dirleton Castle is one of the oldest surviving strongholds in Scotland. Built in the 13th century, the fortress was residence to three successive noble families: the de Vauxs, Haliburtons and Ruthvens. It was abandoned as a noble residence after Oliver Cromwell’s siege of 1650 but was saved from falling into disrepair in 1660s when the Nisbet family took ownership. They transformed the castle into an eye-catching attraction; a status it has retained to this very day.

ManGo Everywhere

July 26, 2025

Cycling

Star of many movies and television shows good place to start on the castle trail

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Nearby routes

Best routes near Dirleton Castle

2.8

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1. Go East Lothian Trail

17.7km

04:46

200m

Hike the difficult Go East Lothian Trail, a 11.0-mile (17.7 km) route with 643 feet (196 metres) of elevation gain, featuring coastal views

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Hard

4.8

(6)

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2. View of Fidra Island – Scottish Seabird Centre loop from Dirleton

16.2km

04:10

80m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.7

(7)

hikers

3. Serene Beach – Gullane Beach loop from Dirleton

14.0km

03:36

70m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 30 m

1 Apr to 30 Sept Daily, 9.30am to 5.30pm 1 Oct to 31 Mar: Daily, 10am to 4pm

Member/Explorer Pass holder: FREE
Adult: £6.00
Concession: £4.80
Child aged 5-15: £3.60
Child under 5: FREE

Contacts

Dirleton Ave, Dirleton, North Berwick EH39 5ER

www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/dirleton-castle

https://www.historicenvironment.scot/about-us/contact-us/

01620 850330

Weather

Today

Thursday 12 March

11°C

4°C

89 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 38.0 km/h

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Location: Gullane Area, South Scotland, Scotland, United Kingdom

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Dirleton Castle

1. Go East Lothian Trail

2. View of Fidra Island – Scottish Seabird Centre loop from Dirleton

3. Serene Beach – Gullane Beach loop from Dirleton

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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