Close to Edinburgh, and known for being the sunniest part of Scotland, East Lothian is both a scenic and convenient destination for mini-breakers, seasiders, and sightseers. East Lothian is also well known and loved by golfers, and one of our recommendations for the best places to stay in East Lothian is right beside the famous Muirfield Golf Course. But there's a good range of accommodation options here for all tastes and budgets, from pubs with rooms and B&Bs to smart country house hotels.

If you're planning to visit the area for its beaches we recommend Dunbar, which also has a charming town, a fishing harbour, and an atmospheric ruined castle straddling the clifftop. North Berwick is just along the coast, and also has a number of lovely, golden beaches. It’s also known for its birdwatching potential — it’s got the world’s largest Northern gannet colony, and is home to the Scottish Seabird Centre — and its golf course!

Gullane is a another great option for golfers — it’s closest to Muirfield — but it also has several courses of its own, a very pretty town, and its beaches are ideal for kitesurfing, windsurfing or kayaking. Our Gurus guide hikers and walkers towards the Lammermuir Hills, and foodies towards the Haddington Farmer’s Market.

This region of Scotland is very busy during the peak summer months and the best places to stay in East Lothian fill up fast. So if you're planning to visit during July or August, do your research and book well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in East Lothian

For Foodies

• The Bonnie Badger is an historic pub in Gullane, with 13 contemporary rooms spread between the main building and two adjacent cottages. There’s a good range with the largest offering an original fireplace and a stand-alone bathtub. All of the rooms have wallpapers by Scottish designer, Maìri Helena. The Stables Dining Room does modern takes on pub classics, in a relaxed setting, and there’s a games room to keep the kids occupied.

For Golfing

• The Golf Lodge B&B is a charming Victorian townhouse offering four luxurious bedrooms and hearty breakfasts — as well as delicious dinners on request. Perfectly poised for golfers eager to play East Lothian's many excellent courses (20 of which are within a 20-minute drive), the property is also just moments from the beach and North Berwick town centre. Families or groups should book the self-catering cottage, which includes two cosy bedrooms. A characterful, comfortable choice for golfers and coastal explorers.
• Greywalls was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens as a holiday home for himself close to Muirfield golf course. Now it’s been converted into a 23 room hotel, with decor that remains true to the Edwardian architecture. The house has been in the same family since 1924, and there are all sorts of family references in situ, like old school caps and family portraits. Our favourite rooms have views over the Firth of Forth, while the bedrooms on the other side of the house have views of the lush and lovely garden. 

For Great Value

• The Crown and Kitchen is a small, extremely centrally located, and great value restaurant with four rooms. This is an ideal spot for exploring all of East Lothian, because it’s in East Linton, which is in the heart of the county. The restaurant is the centrepiece here, focused on local produce and a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The four rooms offer space, comfort, simple decor and excellent ensuite bathrooms.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• The nearest airport to East Lothian is Edinburgh International Airport. From Edinburgh to North Berwick or Dunbar, for example, it’s a 40 minute drive, or taxi journey, or around two hours by public transport. If you’re travelling by train via London the easiest route starts at Kings Cross and travels via Edinburgh. East Lothian is served by seven different rail lines, but they all start or finish in Edinburgh.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• In a country known for its unpredictable weather, East Lothian is actually considered one of the sunniest regions! But wise souls know to pack wet weather gear at all times, just in case. It is also known for its long summer days, and conversely, short winter ones, so, if you want to fit in plenty of outdoor exploring, late spring through until early autumn is the period to visit. If you’re thinking about the seaside, July is the warmest month, with temperatures peaking at around 19°C. If you come in the cooler seasons you’ll be rewarded with very competitive accommodation prices and lots of cosy pub fires.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Refine your search further, and consider just the best places to stay in North Berwick or Gullane
• Expand to include the best accommodation in neighbouring Midlothian
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.