A northern seaside town which has a stunning coastline that attracts water sport fans and families was named as the best place to live in the UK
A pretty town by the sea is fast becoming the place to be thanks to its incredible scenery, abundance of independent shops and commutable distance from a nearby city.
Having the seaside on your doorstep is a dream come true for many and in one coastal town, that’s the reality for its lucky residents. For those that can work from home, they get to spend lunch breaks enjoying a spot of paddle boarding or wandering around the numerous thriving local shops. It is also perfectly feasible to commute to the nearby city of Edinburgh though too with a speedy 30 minute train ride making it the perfect place to settle. Visitors to North Berwick on the coast of East Lothian in central Scotland will also find plenty to do for the day or for an extended break.
Such are its attractions for both tourists and locals it was named as the best place to live in the UK last year by the Sunday Times. You are never far from the ocean in North Berwick so naturally water sports such as surfing, sailing, kayaking and paddle boarding are hugely popular. The miles of stunning sandy beaches are also ideal for sunbathing, for children to play on and paddle or take long blustery walks on.
There are plenty of traditional cafes serving all the usual seaside fare of fish and chips and ice cream but also more trendy and quirky restaurants and coffee shops to seek refreshment and enjoy the views from. There’s even a lobster shack at the harbour serving seafood straight off the local fishing boats.
Bass rock is an island just off the shore which is home to the world’s largest northern gannet colony, which along with the Scottish Seabird Centre, makes it an ideal place for birdwatchers. Boat trips are available around the local islands for nature lovers and those who want to enjoy the crystal waters. One of the volcanic islands, Lamb, was bought by illusionist Uri Gellar, who believes there is ancient Egyptian treasure hidden there.
Other attractions include Tantallon Castle to the east and Dirleton Castle to the west. The town’s natural beauty can be enjoyed in the surrounding landscape of fields and hills that are ideal for the more energetic visitor and there’s popular golf courses for fans of the sport. There are beautiful wildflower gardens and floral displays to enjoy as well thanks to the award-winning Berwick in Bloom.
There’s lots going on in the town though too which has a high street packed with an eclectic mix of independent shops and businesses, all benefiting from the free parking. During a week in August traders flock to the town for Fringe by the Sea – its very own take on Edinburgh’s famous festival. There are silent discos, author talks, street food and open air bars providing entertainment into the night.
Recent visitors to North Berwick shared their experiences of the town on Tripadvisor. One wrote: “Just come back from a day trip to North Berwick and we are already planning an extended return. Fab little town, plenty of shops and eateries, fabulous bays and the Harbour is wonderful. Boats, walkways around the area and rocks, lovely cafe/info centre and plenty of benches to take in the boats, the sea, the view.”
Another shared: “A long time since been here but not disappointed. With lovely beaches on either side, cafes and shops and plenty other places nearby, what’s not to love. At the harbour itself, lots of yachts to walk past and admire.” A third raved: “Excellent, unspoilt beaches and harbour with plenty of natural features to explore, including the beach, rock formations and sand dunes. Plenty of space to sit and relax, facing the beautiful Bass Rock plus other rock formations. Easy to walk into the town from the beach itself to access the shops, cafés and restaurants. Well worth a visit.”
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