Scotland, home to popular staycation spots like Edinburgh and Glasgow, also boasts lesser-known gems for those seeking a retreat from city life.
One such place is North Berwick, a coastal town in East Lothian, just a 30-minute train ride from Edinburgh.
Known for its unspoiled coastline and rich heritage, it’s the town’s high street that has recently garnered attention. The Times named it one of the UK’s “loveliest” earlier this year, praising its independent shops and eateries, including award-winning Bostock Bakery run by pastry chef Ross Baxter and Lindsay Lees Baxter.
The Times highlighted unique offerings like Paper Flower for handmade cards and gifts, family-owned Norden for trendy homewares, and Barker and Bone, a boutique for discerning pet owners. They also recommended the Lobster Shack for fresh seafood served at harbour-front tables with outdoor heaters.
For accommodation, The Glebe House, a period-drama style B&B located just off the high street and a short walk to the beach, is a top pick for staycationers.
North Berwick boasts a plethora of dining options, including the acclaimed family-run Italian eatery Osteria, which offers an intriguingly concise menu. Patrons have just three starters, main courses, and desserts to choose from, making it the perfect spot for those overwhelmed by extensive menus, reports the Mirror.
Beyond the culinary delights, North Berwick presents an array of activities. You can soak up the sun on Milsey Bay or West Bay, with the latter affording stunning vistas of the Firth of Forth and the quaint harbour.
For adventure seekers, the call of Bass Rock is irresistible. Located roughly two kilometres off the coast of North Berwick, Bass Rock hosts a thriving colony of gannets, hailed by Sir David Attenborough himself as one of the world’s natural spectacles.
Wildlife enthusiasts are well catered for with boat excursions from the Scottish Seabird Centre to this renowned bird sanctuary.
Tripadvisor accolades sing the praises of North Berwick’s offerings, with Ann lauding: “North Berwick has so much to offer. Something for everyone with its beaches, lovely high street with shops and eateries and the pretty harbour which you could spend some time people watching and enjoying looking at all the boats.”
Meanwhile, Jo enthuses: “Fab little town, plenty of shops and eateries, fabulous bays and the harbour is wonderful.”