Hotels in North Berwick

Rolling green pastures give way to sheer sea cliffs in North Berwick, a charming seaside town overlooking Scotland’s Firth of Forth. North Berwick also boasts internationally-acclaimed golf courses and the world’s largest colony of gannet seabirds.

Things to do in North Berwick

Hike to the summit of North Berwick Law, a 187-meter-high hill with sweeping views over the coastline towards Edinburgh and the Pentlands. Since 1709, a whale jawbone has sat famously atop the imposing hill. Combine iconic views with competitive sports at the Glen Golf Course, which boasts shoreline fairways and stunning vistas of Bass Rock.

Craving some Scottish seafood? Join the queue at The Lobster Shack, a famously shabby, yet treasured institution along North Berwick’s harbourfront. Try the freshly-caught oysters picked straight from the sea by local fisherman and sample the popular half-lobster and chips.

Are you a history buff? Don’t miss the ruins of Tantallon Castle, a 14th-century fortress on the edge of the cliffs overlooking the Firth of Forth. Once home to the Douglas family, the sandstone castle has survived many sieges. Take a guided tour to discover the castle’s formidable past, climb the Tantallon Tower and descend into the depths of the prison.

Take a speedboat to Bass Rock to see a colony of over 150,000 gannets. The beautiful white seabirds call the 320-million-year-old rock home for several months of the year. After witnessing this wildlife wonder, stop by Craigleith Island to spot seals swimming and puffins nesting on the rocks.

Getting around North Berwick

North Berwick is an hour’s drive from Edinburgh Airport on the A720 and A1. Alternatively, you can take a 30-minute tram from Edinburgh followed by a 30-minute train ride to North Berwick. North Berwick is pedestrian friendly, while buses and boat trips are popular for exploring further afield.