Charming seaside village with sandy beaches and its own peaceful Fringe festival
A quaint coastal village in Scotland is emerging as a top choice for a relaxed coastal getaway, offering all the charm of a seaside town without the crowds often seen at other UK holiday hotspots.
Just half an hour's train ride from Edinburgh, North Berwick provides sweeping views across the Firth of Forth and Bass Rock, home to the world's largest northern gannet colony. The iconic bird even lends its Latin name, Sula Bassana, to the island.
Despite hosting the Fringe by the Sea festival, North Berwick remains pleasantly uncrowded. Its sandy beaches allow visitors to set up picnics or sunbathe without feeling cramped.
And its enclosed tidal pool and numerous rock pools make it ideal for family holidays, The Express reports.
Bird enthusiasts can explore the Scottish Seabird Centre, which offers an up-close look at local wildlife, or simply enjoy the panoramic coastline views.
The town's beachfront features a long promenade lined with homes overlooking the sea, easily walkable from end to end in under half an hour.
Visitors can also explore the picturesque marina, cobbled streets, and a variety of cafes, ice cream parlours, and boutique shops.
One Tripadvisor user wrote: 'A long time since I've been here but I was not disappointed.
"With lovely beaches on either side, cafes and shops and plenty other places nearby, what's not to love? At the harbour itself, lots of yachts to walk past and admire.'
Another added: 'Beautiful town on the North Sea about half an hour by train from Edinburgh. For those staying in Edinburgh it is worth the train ride.
"To visit the beach, the town centre with its shops, Scottish Seabird Centre, Tantallon Castle and if the sea allows Bass Rock.'
A third noted: 'Excellent, unspoilt beaches and harbour with plenty of natural features to explore, including the beach, rock formations and sand dunes.
"Plenty of space to sit and relax, facing the beautiful Bass Rock plus other rock formations. Easy to walk into the town from the beach itself to access the shops, cafés and restaurants. Well worth a visit.'
North Berwick is also rich in history and heritage. Nearby attractions include Tantallon Castle to the east and Dirleton Castle to the west.
The town has earned multiple awards through North Berwick in Bloom, recognised for its gardens, floral displays, and wildflower spaces.
Golfers can enjoy world-renowned courses such as North Berwick, Glen, or the nearby Muirfield, while families have access to playgrounds, putting greens, tennis courts, and boat trips around the local islands.
The town's events calendar ensures year-round entertainment. Highlights include the North Berwick Highland Games, Fringe by the Sea, and Puffin Fest, which celebrates the seasonal return of puffins to the islands.
Visitors can also enjoy classic seaside fare, including fish and chip shops, ice cream parlours, quirky tearooms, and modern coffee shops alongside independent retail experiences.
For those looking for a blend of natural beauty, heritage, and leisure, North Berwick offers an ideal escape from city life.
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Daily Record
2 days ago
- Daily Record
Charming seaside village with sandy beaches and its own peaceful Fringe festival
The coastal town is perfect for a relaxed, family-friendly getaway without the usual holiday crowds A quaint coastal village in Scotland is emerging as a top choice for a relaxed coastal getaway, offering all the charm of a seaside town without the crowds often seen at other UK holiday hotspots. Just half an hour's train ride from Edinburgh, North Berwick provides sweeping views across the Firth of Forth and Bass Rock, home to the world's largest northern gannet colony. The iconic bird even lends its Latin name, Sula Bassana, to the island. Despite hosting the Fringe by the Sea festival, North Berwick remains pleasantly uncrowded. Its sandy beaches allow visitors to set up picnics or sunbathe without feeling cramped. And its enclosed tidal pool and numerous rock pools make it ideal for family holidays, The Express reports. Bird enthusiasts can explore the Scottish Seabird Centre, which offers an up-close look at local wildlife, or simply enjoy the panoramic coastline views. The town's beachfront features a long promenade lined with homes overlooking the sea, easily walkable from end to end in under half an hour. Visitors can also explore the picturesque marina, cobbled streets, and a variety of cafes, ice cream parlours, and boutique shops. One Tripadvisor user wrote: 'A long time since I've been here but I was not disappointed. "With lovely beaches on either side, cafes and shops and plenty other places nearby, what's not to love? At the harbour itself, lots of yachts to walk past and admire.' Another added: 'Beautiful town on the North Sea about half an hour by train from Edinburgh. For those staying in Edinburgh it is worth the train ride. "To visit the beach, the town centre with its shops, Scottish Seabird Centre, Tantallon Castle and if the sea allows Bass Rock.' A third noted: 'Excellent, unspoilt beaches and harbour with plenty of natural features to explore, including the beach, rock formations and sand dunes. "Plenty of space to sit and relax, facing the beautiful Bass Rock plus other rock formations. Easy to walk into the town from the beach itself to access the shops, cafés and restaurants. Well worth a visit.' North Berwick is also rich in history and heritage. Nearby attractions include Tantallon Castle to the east and Dirleton Castle to the west. The town has earned multiple awards through North Berwick in Bloom, recognised for its gardens, floral displays, and wildflower spaces. Golfers can enjoy world-renowned courses such as North Berwick, Glen, or the nearby Muirfield, while families have access to playgrounds, putting greens, tennis courts, and boat trips around the local islands. The town's events calendar ensures year-round entertainment. Highlights include the North Berwick Highland Games, Fringe by the Sea, and Puffin Fest, which celebrates the seasonal return of puffins to the islands. Visitors can also enjoy classic seaside fare, including fish and chip shops, ice cream parlours, quirky tearooms, and modern coffee shops alongside independent retail experiences. For those looking for a blend of natural beauty, heritage, and leisure, North Berwick offers an ideal escape from city life.
Daily Record
3 days ago
- Daily Record
'We have holidayed in Mallorca for 20 years but now we won't ever go back'
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Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Daily Mirror
I visited one of the 'best cities in the world' — one thing will live in my mind forever
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