How To Spend A Day In North Berwick Scotland
North Berwick (that’s Ber-ick with a silent ‘W’) is a small coastal town 40 km away from Edinburgh. Like any proper Scottish town, you’ll find a golf course, castle ruins, and plenty of nature to enjoy!
North Berwick Scotland makes the perfect day trip from Edinburgh, and is even easy enough to travel there by train. So here’s what to do one day in North Berwick, and how to get there from Edinburgh.
Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!
Why North Berwick Scotland Is Worth Visiting?
A day trip to North Berwick from Edinburgh was actually recommended to us by a local Scott we met while hiking Arthur’s Seat. Apparently, it’s the day trip to do, and it did not disappoint!
As I mentioned, North Berwick is a typical Scottish town with golf, castle ruins, and nature. But what sets North Berwick apart is the outstanding coastal views and extensive sea life.
A day in North Berwick is the ultimate coastal escape from Edinburgh city life. It gives you a taste of a small seaside village in Scotland, without having to travel too far from Edinburgh.
It’s also one of the easier day trips you could go on, being one of the only day trips from Edinburgh by train!
How To Get From Edinburgh To North Berwick
There are three different ways to get from Edinburgh to North Berwick. You can rent a car, take the bus, or take the train.
The mode of transportation you choose will all depends on how much time you have and how much you want to spend.
Transportation To North Berwick From Edinburgh Overview
| Car | Bus | Train | |
| Pros | Easy to get to activities further outside North Berwick town centre (most flexible) | Can sleep during travel, Cheapest | Fastest, Most relaxing, |
| Cons | Have to deal with parking, Might not need it once you arrive, Stressful to drive in a foreign country Most expensive | Harder to travel outside the city centre. Bound to a schedule | Harder to travel outside the city centre Bound to a schedule |
| Cost | $$$ | $ | $$ |
| Time | 50 mins – 1 hour | 1 hour | ~30 mins |
We opted to take the train because it was quick and easy, but I’ll go over each option in more depth below…
Renting A Car In Edinburgh
If you don’t already have a car in Edinburgh, you’ll have to rent one to drive to North Berwick.
Although we didn’t rent a car to drive to North Berwick, we rented for some other day trips from Edinburgh. We liked renting from the Enterprise at Waverley Station in Edinburgh (reserve a car through Enterprise).
We never had any issues picking up or returning any cars at Enterprise. And it was especially convenient because we were able to drop off the car even after they closed.
Driving to North Berwick will take about an hour (check your route for traffic on Google Maps).
P.S. Although I didn’t drive to North Berwick from Edinburgh, you can read my guide for what to expect before driving in Scotland.
Once your arrive in North Berwick, you may be thankful or cursing yourself for having the car!
First, you’ll have to find parking…
There area a few free lots in the North Berwick town centre, but they aren’t large lots to say the least… see a list of the parking lots in North Berwick.
I think the bigger problem is that the free lots have a 2 hour maximum time limit. So you might be better off paying for parking at the Scottish Seabird Centre for the day instead.
You also may or may not need a car in North Berwick. The North Berwick town centre is quite small and you can walk everywhere.
But! If you’re planning on visiting Tantallon Castle, you may want to consider having a car. There are other ways to get to the castle from North Berwick without a car, but it isn’t easy.
There’s no doubt that driving to North Berwick from Edinburgh gives you the most flexibility, but it can also be stressful. And renting a car, paying for gas, and parking, will add up to being the most expensive option.
Day Trips From Edinburgh By Train: North Berwick
North Berwick is one of the easiest day trips from Edinburgh by train. During peak times, trains to North Berwick run every 30 minutes, but they will also be the most expensive tickets! Otherwise the train runs every hour, but will be cheaper (off- peak is typically after 9:00 A.M.).
The North Berwick Train Station is about a 15 minute walk to the city centre. But there are things to do in North Berwick that are outside the city centre (like Tantallon Caslte)… these will be much easier to reach if you have a car, but not impossible.
Keep in mind, we took the train and still manage to visit it Tantallon Castle, it just takes a bit more advance planning.
P.S. Make planning your trip to North Berwick from Edinburgh a bit easier with my Edinburgh travel guide!
Edinburgh To North Berwick By Bus
The cheapest and final option to get to North Berwick from Edinburgh is to take the bus.
There are two East Lothian bus routes going from Edinburgh to North Berwick (X5 and 124). It will depend on your schedule and location which one is more convenient for you.
Both bus routes bring you further to the North Berwick town centre than the train.
None of these routes are express though, so they will take closer to an hour to hour and a half to arrive.
If you take the bus to North Berwick, you have similar issues to taking the train. It’s more difficult to venture to activities outside to the city centre, like Tantallon Castle, if you don’t have a car.
Secret Option: Go On An Organized Tour From Edinburgh To North Berwick
Alternatively, you can also book an organized tour to North Berwick from Edinburgh.
There aren’t too many tour options, but this tour from Viator, takes you to Tantallon Castle and North Berwick, among many other stops in one day!
This will be the most expensive option, but also the least stressful! And this way you don’t even have to plan the itinerary!
See all the organized tours leaving from Edinburgh on Viator.
Top Things To Do In North Berwick Town Centre
Despite North Berwick Scotland being so quaint and small, it’s actually famous for a few things.
The city is mainly known for the Scottish Seabird Centre and the North Berwick Law, but there are a few other must-sees while you’re spending a day in North Berwick.
Visit The North Berwick Seabird Centre
As I said, a top thing to do in North Berwick is to visit the Scottish Seabird Centre.
They are a marine conservation charity that opened its doors to educate the public. The surrounding islands around North Berwick have so much sea life to discover, like puffins, seals, and gannets. The Scottish Seabird Centre brings all of this marine life to you!
The Centre covers all the different kinds of Scottish coastal life. They’ve even set up live cameras on different Scottish islands to give you a closer look at the wildlife. For example, there’s give you an up-close look at Bass Rock (a volcanic rock just off the coast of North Berwick that’s now home to the world’s largest colony of gannets).
It’s worth spending some time here to learn about the different birds of Scotland. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable, so don’t be shy to ask them any question.
Hike The North Berwick Law
The North Berwick Law is the only mountain surrounding North Berwick, so it’s pretty hard to miss! It’s also an extinct volcano!
The North Berwick Law is a 30-minute walk to the base of the mountain, and then it’s an hour hike to the top. We opted against the hike as it was a very foggy day when we visited.
Not only is there a view at the top, but there are also quite the unique archway…
Whale jaw bones were placed here as early as 1709, to help guide sailors home. Every few years though the jaw bones had to be replaced due to safety concerns. So finally in 2008, jaw bones were replaced by a fibreglass replica.
Today the whale bones are somewhat of a symbol of North Berwick Scotland.
Walk Around & Go Shopping In North Berwick Town Centre
One of the best things to do in North Berwick is to just wander around exploring the city centre.
Walk through the winding streets, admire the architecture, and take some time to go shopping on High Street. I swear I wanted to go into every second shop (and I probably did). It’s mainly local shops where you can find artwork, clothing, produce… you name it!
My favourite one was Why Not? It was a fish market, pastry shop, coffee shop, and art gallery all in one!
Spend A Day In North Berwick At The Beach
North Berwick Scotland is a beach town after all, so if it’s a nice day, why not spend it at the beach!?
There are two beaches you can enjoy in North Berwick, West Bay Beach and Misley Bay Beach. Each are on either side of the North Berwick Harbour.
If you aren’t so sure about swimming in the open sea, Misley Bay Beach has a Tidal pool you can enjoy!
P.S. Even if it isn’t nice out, make sure to head to the beach anyway for a stroll and to check out the North Berwick Harbour. It’s also a great spot to watch the sunset in Scotland!
Golf On The Coast In North Berwick
I am not a golf pro or even a fan of the “sport”, but if you are into golf, North Berwick is definitely a course you have to check out.
Scotland is the birthplace of golf after all (well Saint Andrews Scotland is), but North Berwick takes golf to a whole other level. My partner was in awe of this golf course; I swear if I wasn’t there he would have been on that course within seconds!
There are 3 courses at the North Berwick course, each offering there own set of Scottish challenges. But the most impressive in my mind is the Glen Golf Course along the Firth of Forth (just make sure not to lose your ball in the sea!).
Things To Do Near North Berwick
Like I said, North Berwick is a small coastal town. So, if you’re visiting for an entire day in North Berwick, you might run out of things to do in the city centre.
Not to worry though, there are a few things to do around North Berwick town centre that are worth checking out!
P.S. Remember your entire day trip to North Berwick by writing your favourite memories in my travel journal with prompts!
Wander Through Ruins At Tantallon Castle From North Berwick
Tantallon Castle sits on the outskirts of the North Berwick town centre.
The castle dates back to the mid 1300s. But over the centuries, the English attacked it… twice… leaving the castle in the ruined state we see today.
The Tantallon Castle ruins are still worth visiting though because they offer outstanding coastal views (and it’s also the best spot to see Bass Rock!).
The castle tower is still somewhat intact so you can walk up to the top for a full panoramic view.
See admission prices to Tantallon Castle, but it’s also a part of the Scottish Explorer Pass, which I recommend buying if you’re interested in visiting more castles in Scotland.
P.S. How To Get To Tantallon Castle Without A Car…
Getting to Tantallon Castle without a car can be a bit hard. It’s about an hour away if you walk. Part of the walk is beautiful because it’s along the coast, but then the rest is on the side of the road.
Otherwise, if you plan your visit in advance, there is a bus that will get you there in 15 minutes. The problem is that the bus (the 120) only comes about every 2 hours… not the most convenient (see why I said you have to plan in advance!). There also isn’t a real bus stop at the castle itself. You have to pick it up across the street from the entrance, randomly on the side of the road.
You can also always take a taxi! Or book this tour on Viator that brings you there from Edinburgh.
Here’s my full overview of how to get there without a car.
Go For A Coffee Break On A Sea Cliff
Not too far from Tantallon Castle (about a 15-minute walk) is the Drift Cafe. If you want a nice afternoon pick me up with beautiful views, there’s no better place to go.
The Drift Cafe is built onto the edge of the sea cliff out of two metal shipping containers. Equipped with floor to ceiling windows, they make you feel like you’re in the sea, especially if you get a seat near the window.
Visit the NB Distillery
Venturing past Tantallon Castle is the NB Distillery (about a 20 minute walk). They distill gin, vodka, and rum. They were rated the best London dry gin in the world in 2015, so if you’re a gin fan, this is the place to go!
The distillery offers a few tours which begin at specific times during the day. So I recommend checking that ahead of visiting.
Where To Eat In North Berwick
We enjoyed a delicious meal at The Puffin; it’s a family run restaurant in the centre of town! Offering a good mix of traditional Scottish dishes (meat pie, cullen skink…etc) and mainstream eats (like hamburgers and salads).
A good coffee spot in the North Berwick town centre is Steampunk Cafe where they roast their own beans! P.S. don’t forget to download my coffee tasting guide for your trip to Scotland if you’re a true coffee lover!
Where To Stay Overnight In North Berwick
North Berwick Scotland is also a very popular weekend getaway from Edinburgh.
So if you decide to stay the night, here are some options:
For a truly unique experience book The Weir Whitekirk Hill in between North Berwick and Tantallon Castle. You get an entire apartment all to yourself with hotel-like amenities (a restaurant, indoor pool and sauna, and even an indoor playground and terrace for guests to use!). You can even book a room with a view of the North Berwick Law. It doesn’t get much better than that! See room rates and availability.
If you’re looking for a bit more budget-friendly, and in the city centre of North Berwick, Nether Abbey Hotel is the place to stay. What I love about this accommodation is the traditional Scottish breakfast made with fresh locally sourced produce included with your stay. Plus, you might even be able to book a room with a view of the beach! See room rates and availability.
For more accommodation options in North Berwick click here. Or find a place to stay in Edinburgh click here.
Edinburgh Scotland Travel Guide
Check out my digital and printable travel guide for first timers to Edinburgh.
Use it digitally on your phone to check off top attractions as you do them. Or print it out in one of three size formates, 8.5 x 11, 5.5 x 8.5, or 2.75 x 4.25 for a packable mini travel planner!
11 pages included:
- Cover Page
- Edinburgh at a Glance: with tips and quick information about Edinburgh, like foods to try to classic experiences
- Packing list
- Top things to do in Edinburgh
- Day trips from Edinburgh & Castles near Edinburgh checklist
- Top things to do in North Berwick Scotland (day trip)
- Top things to do in Glasgow Scotland (day trip)
- Road trip checklist to the Scottish Borders (with map)
- Road trip checklist to St. Andrews (with map)
- Additional notes, to write travel info or favourite memories you don’t want to forget!
Shop My Scotland Day Trip Amazon Must-Haves
Continue Reading: My Scotland Guides
- How To Get From North Berwick To Tantallon Castle
- The Best Castles To Visit Near Edinburgh
- Top Edinburgh Attractions
- Edinburgh Hidden Gems
- Edinburgh Fun Facts
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I live in Scotland and I’ve never thought of visiting North Berwick. I’ll definitely be making a day trip now!
That’s awesome! Glad I could inspire a local 😛
Because my husband is Scottish I’ve been able to see a lot of the country but I’ve never made it here! Looks like I’m adding another city to the list 🙂
No way! Definitely a must-see then on your next trip there!
What a sweet little place to visit. Also love the sound of flagging down a bus. Your photo made me laugh.
Haha glad to hear that! It was definitely an expereince I’ll never forget 🙂
North Berwick looks so beautiful!! I went to Edinburgh earlier this year and fell in love with the city, when I go back I definitely want to see North Berwick! Its good to know that I can get there and around without a car too! I am used to driving on the right hand side and am definitely not ready to try driving on the left haha. Thanks for the helpful tips!
That’s why we went there too! I did not want to chance driving on the other side of the road, we could barely even cross the street properly without being confused 😛
That North Berwick Law mountain looks so random, dramatically rising out of flatlands like that. I’d love to try that hike! I wonder why it’s called “Law”? A pretty cool name.
Of course the English destroyed the castle. Do you get the feeling at all that English tourists feel bad about all the ruins and war stories when they visit places their ancestors tried to colonize? When I was there it seemed to me like the Scottish feel fondly towards the English now, so I’m sure there’s no animosity today. But I couldn’t help but notice how much of the history I encountered had something to do with the English coming in and f’ing things up.
I’m not a big golf person either but in Scotland and Ireland they always seem to put the courses right on the water, it’d be a fun sport to get into just for the gorgeous scenery! Although I wonder how often they swing too hard and hit the ball into the ocean, is that possible?
Your pictures showing the town skyline sitting on the coast really make it look charming, this seems like a fun lesser-known destination for when folks want to get out of the main tourist hubs of Edinburgh and Glasgow.
It’s stunning! And if you drive to the Kingdom of Fife along the coast (like Elie and Earlsferry) you can even see it from there rising above everything else, it’s really spectacular!
The Scottish definitely have a crazy history, and a lot of it involves the English, and not necessarily in a good way :P.. but now everything seems to be on goodish terms.
It does seem like they like to place the courses right on the water, maybe on purpose? Although never really playing a game of golf I wouldn’t know. The pros probably have it under control and never hit it into the water, but I know if I played that’s where all my shots would go!
North Berwick is a great place to go to get away from everyday city life, even if it’s just for a day! Highly recommend a trip here!