Aberlady

XploreScotland
27 May 2025

Aberlady - East Lothian's Coastal Gem

Nestled along the southern shores of the Firth of Forth, Aberlady is a picturesque village in East Lothian, Scotland and part of Scotland's Golf Coast.

Aberlady Bay Nature Reserve

In 1952, Aberlady Bay became the UK's first Local Nature Reserve with salt marshes, sand dunes, and woodlands, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

The "Footbridge to Enchantment" is a wooden bridge that leads visitors into the heart of the nature reserve. (pictured above) The bridge was named by local author Nigel Tranter, who found inspiration in the area's peaceful landscapes.

The bay also holds historical remnants, such as the wrecks of XT-craft submarines used for training during World War II, which can be seen during low tide.

Walking Trails and Outdoor Activities

Follow the 5.4-mile loop that takes visitors through the nature reserve to Gullane Point, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.

Cultural Highlights

Aberlady is home to the Myreton Motor Museum, which houses a collection of vintage vehicles and motoring memorabilia.

Getting to Aberlady

Aberlady is around 18 miles east of Edinburgh. By car, it can be reached along the A198 coastal route. Which connects directly to the A1 and Edinburgh city bypass. Free parking is available near the village centre and close to the nature reserve.

For public transport, regular buses run from Edinburgh to Aberlady via Lothian Buses. The nearest train station is in Longniddry, about 4 miles away, offering services between Edinburgh and North Berwick. From Longniddry Station, you can catch a bus or taxi to Aberlady.

Nearby Places to Explore

  • Gullane – Just a 5-minute drive west, this charming village is famous for Gullane Beach and world-class golf at Muirfield and Gullane Golf Club.
  • North Berwick – Roughly 15 minutes east by car, this vibrant seaside town offers the Scottish Seabird Centre, Tantallon Castle, and boat trips to Bass Rock.
  • Dirleton – A short detour inland leads to Dirleton Castle, surrounded by picturesque gardens.
  • Longniddry Bents – A peaceful beach and nature area ideal for walking, located just west of Aberlady.
  • Haddington – The market town of East Lothian, located approximately 15 minutes away, features historical sites such as St Mary's Collegiate Church.

Scotland's Golf Coast

Aberlady lies in the heart of Scotland's Golf Coast, making it an ideal base for golf enthusiasts. The surrounding area is packed with world-class golf.

  • Gullane Golf Club – Just minutes away, home to three acclaimed courses and a frequent host of major championships.
  • Muirfield – Near Gullane, this exclusive Open Championship venue ranks among the finest golf courses in the world.
  • Craigielaw Golf Club – Right on the edge of Aberlady, offering a challenging links course with panoramic views over Aberlady Bay.
  • Luffness New Golf Club – A historic course adjacent to the village, known for its traditional links layout and heritage.
  • Kilspindie Golf Club - Nestled between Craigielaw and the shores of Aberlady Bay, this course ranks as one of Scotland’s hidden gems.
  • North Berwick Golf ClubEstablished in 1832, the West Links at North Berwick ranks as the 13th oldest golf course in the world.
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