Hiking Day 2: North Berwick to Prestonpans
Join me on Day 2 of an incredible journey along the Scottish coast. This adventure begins at Tantallon Caravan Park, located just east of North Berwick. The morning sun rises over the Firth of Forth, casting a golden glow on the landscape as I prepare for a full day of hiking. This stretch takes us from the Glen Golf Club through Milsey Bay Beach, out to the historic town of North Berwick, and then onward to some of Scotland’s most scenic and iconic locations.
Watch the sunrise and the start of the hike here:
As I set off, Milsey Bay greets me with calm waters and views of Bass Rock in the distance. The low tide reveals long stretches of sand, perfect for an early walk. Kayakers glide across the bay, their paddles gently cutting through the water, while I trek along the beach, savoring the tranquility of the morning.
From there, I head into North Berwick and out to West Bay Beach, where the trail officially leads through town. However, with the tide still low, I decide to take the beach route. The open sands and sea breeze make this decision easy, and I pass by The Wee Course at the North Berwick Golf Club, navigating between rocks and seaweed. Fidra Lighthouse comes into view as we continue along Yellowcraig Beach, where I reflect on the beauty of coastal hiking and the sense of freedom it brings.
See more of the beach walk and Fidra Lighthouse:
Midway through the hike, the focus shifts slightly. I begin to pass a series of famous golf courses, each offering a different view of the landscape. The Renaissance Club, Muirfield, and Gullane Golf Club, among others, all line the route as I make my way towards Aberlady. It’s hard not to feel connected to the long history of golf in this region, even as a casual observer.
For a glimpse into the golf clubs along the way:
As we near the end of the hike, the Aberlady Bay Local Nature Reserve comes into view. It’s a peaceful place, with wide-open views of the estuary and an abundance of wildlife. From here, I continue to the charming towns of Aberlady and Port Seton, both full of character. The day ends with a well-deserved dinner in Prestonpans and a stunning sunset over the Firth of Forth. It’s moments like this that make long hikes feel so rewarding.
Watch the sunset over the Firth of Forth:
Day 2 is a testament to the diversity of Scotland’s landscape. From beaches and coastal views to historic golf courses and quiet nature reserves, this hike offers a little bit of everything. It’s a reminder that adventure is often found in the details, in the steps between destinations, and in the quiet moments when you take it all in.
Keywords:
- North Berwick hiking
- Coastal hike Scotland
- Tantallon Caravan Park
- Milsey Bay Beach walk
- Fidra Lighthouse hike
- Aberlady Bay Nature Reserve
- Golf courses in Scotland