Visitor Attractions

East Lothian offers a fantastic mix of visitor attractions near Dunbar, from dramatic castles and beautiful beaches to wildlife centres, museums, distilleries, and family‑friendly days out.

JOHN MUIR'S BIRTHPLACE, DUNBAR

  • Museum dedicated to the life and legacy of John Muir, the famous conservationist and “Father of National Parks”
  • Located in the historic house where Muir was born in 1838
  • Engaging exhibits exploring his childhood in Dunbar, his travels, and his environmental achievements
  • Interactive displays suitable for all ages, including families
  • Inspiring insight into how Muir’s early years in East Lothian shaped his passion for nature
  • Gift shop with books, souvenirs, and nature‑themed items
  • A meaningful stop for anyone interested in wildlife, conservation, or local history
  • Free

BELHAVEN BREWERY, DUNBAR

  • Scotland’s oldest working brewery, founded in 1719
  • Famous for Belhaven Best, Scottish ales, and craft brews enjoyed across the UK
  • Set in a beautiful historic site overlooking the fields of Belhaven
  • Offers guided tours showcasing traditional brewing methods and modern craft techniques
  • On‑site taproom where visitors can sample fresh beers straight from the source
  • Gift shop with brewery merchandise, local products, and take‑home beers
  • A must‑visit for beer lovers and anyone interested in Scottish brewing heritage


MUSEUM OF FLIGHT, EAST FORTUNE

  • One of Scotland’s top aviation museums, set on a historic WWII airfield
  • Home to an impressive collection of aircraft, including Scotland’s only Concorde
  • Interactive exhibits exploring the history of flight, engineering, and aviation innovation
  • Hangars filled with military, commercial, and leisure aircraft from across the decades
  • Family‑friendly with hands‑on activities, trails, and engaging displays
  • Outdoor spaces and original wartime buildings add to the atmosphere
  • Regular events, airshows, and themed activity days throughout the year
  • A brilliant day out for all ages, just a short drive from Dunbar

TANTALLON CASTLE, NORTH BERWICK

  • Dramatic 14th‑century clifftop fortress overlooking the North Sea
  • Last great curtain‑wall castle built in Scotland
  • Spectacular views across to the Bass Rock and surrounding coastline
  • Explore towers, battlements, and atmospheric ruins rich with history
  • Once home to the powerful Douglas family
  • Great spot for photography, picnics, and coastal walks
  • Family‑friendly with plenty of space to roam and discover

GLENKINCHIE DISTILLERY, PENCAITLAND

  • Historic Lowland whisky distillery located near Pencaitland, just a short drive from Dunbar
    Known as the “Edinburgh Malt,” producing light, floral, and elegant single malts
  • Offers guided tours exploring the whisky‑making process from grain to glass
  • Beautifully restored Victorian distillery buildings set in peaceful countryside
  • Tasting experiences available, including premium and specialist whisky flights
  • Modern visitor centre with interactive exhibits and whisky heritage displays
  • Gift shop featuring exclusive bottlings and whisky‑themed gifts
  • A great day out for whisky lovers and anyone interested in Scottish craft and tradition

SCOTTISH SEABIRD CENTRE, NORTH BERWICK

  • Award‑winning wildlife discovery centre overlooking North Berwick’s harbour
  • Interactive exhibits exploring Scotland’s marine life, seabirds, and coastal habitats
  • Live cameras streaming from Bass Rock, Fidra, and other local islands
  • Great for families, with hands‑on activities and child‑friendly learning zones
  • Seasonal boat trips available to Bass Rock, home to the world’s largest gannet colony
  • Café with stunning sea views and a focus on local produce
  • Gift shop featuring nature‑themed books, toys, and local crafts
  • A brilliant day out for nature lovers and anyone curious about Scotland’s coastal wildlife