The best walks and hikes in East Lothian

Yes, East Lothian has many options for families and beginners, with nearly 200 easy routes to choose from. A great choice is the John Muir Country Park loop, which is a very gentle walk with paths suitable for all ages. Another popular and easy option is the Belhaven Bridge loop from Dunbar, offering lovely beach views.

East Lothian is generally very dog-friendly. Many trails, especially in woodlands and on beaches, are perfect for walking with your dog. Butterdean Wood is a local favorite for dog walkers. However, always be mindful of local signage, especially in nature reserves like Aberlady Bay to protect wildlife, and around farmland where livestock may be present.

For panoramic views, the short, steep climb up North Berwick Law is a must-do. From the top, you can see across the Firth of Forth, the Bass Rock, and the surrounding countryside. For a different perspective, the rolling Lammermuir Hills offer a sense of space and tranquility. The Lammer Law and Hopes Reservoir loop provides stunning vistas across the moorlands.

East Lothian has plenty of excellent circular routes. For a walk that combines history with riverside scenery, the Hailes Castle & the River Tyne loop from East Linton is a great moderate option. If you're looking for a more remote moorland experience in the Lammermuir Hills, consider the Whiteadder Reservoir & Priestlaw Hill loop.

Yes, the region is rich in history. The loop from North Berwick takes you past the impressive medieval Dirleton Castle. For a shorter walk focused on ruins, the Dunbar Castle Ruins loop explores the historic harbour and the remains of the castle.

Many trailheads in East Lothian are accessible by public transport. Towns like North Berwick, Dunbar, and Musselburgh have train stations with regular services from Edinburgh. From there, you can start several coastal walks directly. Local bus services connect the main towns to smaller villages, providing access to inland routes. For example, you can start the Musselburgh Lagoons loop right from the town.

Hiking in East Lothian is enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer long daylight hours and vibrant coastal scenery. Late summer is particularly beautiful in the Lammermuir Hills when the heather is in full purple bloom. Autumn provides crisp air and beautiful colours, while winter walks can be bracing and quiet, though you should be prepared for shorter days and changeable weather.

The coastline is fantastic for wildlife. The Aberlady Bay & Gullane Bents loop is a top choice, as it passes through the Aberlady Bay Local Nature Reserve, which is a haven for wading birds and other waterfowl. You can also spot seabirds, including gannets from the famous Bass Rock, on many coastal paths around North Berwick.

The trails in East Lothian are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning coastal views, the variety of landscapes from sandy beaches to rolling hills, and the well-maintained paths. The mix of nature and accessible historical sites is also a commonly highlighted feature.

Yes, many routes begin in or near East Lothian's charming towns. The village of Gifford is the starting point for the Yester Castle & Gifford Water loop, which allows you to explore the local area and finish your walk with easy access to village amenities.

There are over 370 hiking routes to discover in East Lothian on komoot. They range from easy coastal strolls and family-friendly woodland walks to more challenging hikes in the Lammermuir Hills, ensuring there's a trail for every ability level.