Scotland has been a top destination for holidays due to it’s rich history, friendly welcome and amazing scenery. In Scotland there is a massive variety of different places, from a city break to Glasgow to a Loch side cabin in the Highlands there is much to offer all comers. One of the gems is the East Coast with its amazing sandy beaches and working harbours it can offer something unique to families and backpackers. None more so than the seaside town of Dunbar, locally known as Sunny Dunny due to its fairer weather. Set in East Lothian around 40 minutes drive from Edinburgh and 20 minute train journey it is both accessible and beautiful. It is somewhere slightly off the beaten track but still very warm and welcoming to tourists and visitors with information service provided at both the library and the local museum.
The Harbour and Beach
Dunbar boasts a working harbour with one of the best seafood restaurants in Scotland getting produce straight from the daily catch. There is a sandy beach with well maintained public toilets and outdoor showers for those brave enough to venture into the North sea, a popular activity is to Surf and there is a surf school based at Belhaven beach giving lessons to newcomers. The beach is great for walking your dog, playing with the kids or just spending some quiet time relaxing and reflecting. Nothing is more calming than watching the ocean crash into land, and on a calm day you can watch as the seagulls dive bomb into the water in search of fish. Belhaven beach is protected nature reserve and has marshland which is unique in it’s wildlife and eco system. A great place for many bird watchers to come and try to discover unusual species. Having been through a recent regeneration the area also boasts a great childrens play park and free to use bathroom facilities. And after your day at the beach you can enjoy some fresh fruit from Belhaven fruit farm which allows visitors to pick their own, which is a healthy and fun activity to take the kids on as they will learn and have healthy tasty treats.
The High Street
The high street is well populated, unlike many UK towns, with variety of unusual and different shops showcasing local arts and crafts as well as an award winning bakery recently having been filmed on a National bakery competition. The local produce is great for those staying in self catering accommodation with a Butchers, fishmongers, bakers and Fruit and veg shop all providing you with locally sourced and organically grown produce which really gives you a flavour of Scotland. As previously mentioned the fish on sale are captured in the sea and brought straight to store from the boat so you won’t find fresher elsewhere. The friendly nature of the shop keepers and residents make it a great family day out and with a swimming pool, open library, museum and large park the kids will not get bored, but don’t forget to pick up your “Sunny Dunny” T-shirt printed at the local t-shirt printing boutique before you leave as a great memento to your holiday.
History
Dunbar is the birth place of John Muir the man responsible for setting up National Parks all across the US. His museum is a great place to learn more about conservation and wildlife and often has fun activities for the kids. Being a tourist destination you will find in peak summer months this town bustles with many different nationalities and provides a good and convenient base for those wishing to travel into nearby Edinburgh without having to pay City Centre rates for accommodation.
Where to stay
There are many Caravan parks surrounding the town with good family rates, if you are lone traveler then the local guest houses offer very good rates. There has also been a lot of people camp out on the beach for that extra special adventure but it is not advisable due to the area being conservation land.
Does anyone know when the best time of year is to visit Scotland? Especially for surfing?
The best time for surfing is during winter months due to the bigger waves, but ensure you bring a thick wetsuit or hire one when you get here as it can be bitterly cold!