From stunning beaches and quaint harbours, to world-class golf courses and award-winning eateries, it isn’t difficult to see why East Lothian is such a popular destination for all types of house hunter. It’s an area of Scotland with community at its heart, and the friendly towns and villages offer a warm welcome to all.

The glittering waters of the Firth of Forth run along East Lothian’s coastline, and the area is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Boasting miles of beaches and the 5-star Scottish Seabird Centre attraction, there are also excellent views across to Bass Rock – home to the world’s largest colony of northern gannets. Whether you’re looking for a countryside getaway or a retirement home by the sea, East Lothian offers an idyllic location to set up home – all under an hour’s journey from Edinburgh, the bustling Scottish capital.

Explore East Lothian

There are four major towns in the East Lothian: North Berwick, Haddington, Dunbar and Tranent. Each has its own unique character and style.

North Berwick

North Berwick boasts beautiful beaches and stunning coastal scenery, with a quaint, friendly high street at its centre. North Berwick has established itself as a bit of a foodie’s destination too, with traditional fish and chips and ice cream parlours rubbing shoulders with cute tearooms and award-winning bakeries.

There is a plethora of local independent shops to choose from in North Berwick, with original home furnishings and gifts for sale. And for golf lovers, North Berwick offers three major golf courses, plus another large course in nearby Gullane. For families, the town offers Law Primary School and North Berwick High School.

Haddington

The small East Lothian town of Haddington was once famous for its mills, and today its agricultural heritage remains strong, with a regular farmers market attracting shoppers from near and far. Surrounded by the Garleton Hills and banked by the River Tyne, it’s a town that feels close to the countryside and is perfect for leisurely afternoon strolls.

Musselburgh

Famed for its glamorous racecourse, Musselburgh is the largest town in East Lothian. Musselburgh takes its name from the extensive mussel beds that lie along the nearby Firth of Forth. Located just six miles east of Edinburgh, it’s a popular location for families, with plenty of modern housing to complement its historic high street.

As well as being home to Scotland’s oldest racecourse, Musselburgh also has the historic 9-hole Musselburgh Links golf course, which is said to date back to 1672, making it potentially one of the oldest in the world.

Dunbar

The sleepy, harbour town of Dunbar offers a laid back pace of life. Steeped in history, the town centre is peppered with historic buildings and the remains of Dunbar Castle can still be seen overlooking the harbour. Dunbar’s high street is thriving and there’s plenty going on in the local community. It’s also the sunniest place in Scotland!

Tranent

The peaceful town of Tranent is one of the oldest in East Lothian, dating back to at least the 12th century. Once a mining town, today Tranent offers an inviting high street of independent retailers and cosy traditional pubs. Throughout the diminutive town you’ll find old and historic buildings, each with their own unique and fascinating history, and a couple of miles outside Tranent stands Fa’side Castle, a 14th century tower house. All this, plus you can drive to the Scottish capital in under half an hour.

Find a property in East Lothian

You’ll also find our offices in a prime spots in North Berwick, Dunbar, Tranent and Haddington. We love visitors, so do pop in for a cup of tea and browse the selection of properties we have on offer.

We offer a range of houses for sale or to let in East Lothian, see what current properties are available.