Things To Do
in Dunbar
Dunbar is a historic coastal town in East Lothian, Scotland, perched on the North Sea with a rugged shoreline and a picturesque harbor. Its compact town center blends medieval ruins with whitewashed pubs, cafes, and a welcoming village atmosphere. The town is famously the birthplace of naturalist John Muir, whose legacy is celebrated in a dedicated birthplace museum and nearby trails.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxed seaside feel, dramatic cliffs, and easy access to the broader East Lothian coast and countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the historic Dunbar Castle, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline. After a short walk up to the castle, immerse yourself in the rich history and fascinating architecture that has stood for centuries. Don't forget to capture stunning photographs of the cliffs and sea from the castle's vantage points.
After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along the sandy beaches near the castle, soaking in the fresh sea air. Spend some time exploring the rock pools or simply relax while watching the waves crash against the shore. Consider a visit to the local café for a warm drink and a slice of traditional Scottish shortbread.
As the sun begins to set, head to one of the local restaurants for a taste of fresh seafood, a specialty in this coastal town. Choose a cozy spot with a view to enjoy your meal while the golden hues of dusk reflect on the water. Conclude your day with a scenic walk along the promenade, taking in the serene atmosphere of dusk settling over Dunbar.
Kick off your day at the East Links Family Park, where you can enjoy a variety of activities suitable for all ages. Spend time with friendly animals in the petting zoo or hop on a tractor ride through the picturesque fields. Breathe in the fresh air as you make your way to the adventure playground, packed with fun for the little ones.
After a fun-filled morning, grab a quick lunch at the farm café, which offers delicious homemade dishes. Then, take advantage of the park’s outdoor activities, like go-karting and mini golf, which can provide hours of entertainment. Make sure to stop by the gift shop for unique souvenirs before you leave.
As the day winds down, find a charming pub in Dunbar for dinner and perhaps a pint of local beer. Engage in conversation with locals, who can share stories about the area and recommend hidden gems. End your night with a walk through the historic town center, as the night's lights twinkle ahead.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🍺Beer at a pub | $5-8 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $3-6 |
| 🎬Cinema ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and easy access to East Lothian attractions
- Rich maritime and literary heritage (John Muir) with a compact, walkable town center
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale amenities compared to bigger cities
- Public transport options can be infrequent on Sundays and in outlying areas
Places to Visit in Dunbar
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point to capture the working harbor against the backdrop of dramatic sea cliffs and the silhouette of the castle ruins.
A historic house turned small museum; offers intimate interiors and a connection to Dunbar's literary heritage.
Expansive sandy shores and rolling dunes perfect for wide-angle seascapes, golden hour sunsets, and long coastal shots.
Cliff-top vantage points with panoramic sea views and rugged cliff lines—great for dramatic coastal photography.
Long, scenic coastal walk offering continual sea views and opportunities for nature photography along the shore.
Food in Dunbar
Dunbar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy smoked haddock soup, a Scotland-wide favorite that comes alive with fresh coastal produce; commonly found in pubs and cafes.
Must-Try!
A comforting bowl featuring local fish and shellfish, often served with crusty bread along the harbor.
The classic Scottish trio; widely available in pubs and seasonal Scottish menus.
Traditionally sweet treats perfect with a coffee or tea in local bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local meat, dairy, vegetables, cheeses, and baked goods; great for stocking up on fresh ingredients.
Occasional stalls with seafood, pastries, and crafts — ideal for a quick seaside bite.
Weekend or seasonal markets featuring local producers and street-food options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British courtesy generally applies: queue, wait your turn, and speak politely in public spaces.
Stick to marked paths, dispose of litter properly, and respect wildlife and sensitive coastal areas.
Dunbar is a peaceful town; avoid loud behavior in cafes, pubs, and residential areas, especially late at night.
Drive on the left; be mindful of narrow lanes and pedestrians along the waterfront.
Safety
Tipping in Dunbar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. If service charge is not included, rounding up or 10-15% at restaurants and pubs is common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild to warm days with longer daylight hours; relatively light crowds in the shoulder season; keep a light layer for sea breezes and occasional showers.
Cooler temperatures and windy coastal weather; rich autumn colors along the coast provide dramatic photography opportunities; expect variable conditions.
Cool to cold with the possibility of brisk north winds; daylight is shorter; many seaside paths remain accessible, but plan for wet or windy days.
Mild and increasingly sunny days; wildlife and migratory birds return; blooms along the coast add color to photography and walks.
Dunbar at Night
Hiking in Dunbar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal and countryside segments ideal for day hikes with ocean views.
A notable hill near East Linton offering panoramic views and moderate-to-challenging climbs.
Dune routes and sea-level paths suitable for easy to moderate hikes and photography.
Forest and waterway trails offering birdwatching and peaceful nature walks.
Airports
How to reach Dunbar by plane.
Major international gateway about 40-60 miles from Dunbar, with frequent domestic and European flights and good rail and road connections.
Another international option within a couple of hours’ drive, offering a wide range of destinations and services.
A longer drive but serves many international routes; useful for certain connections and regional trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families are attracted by the coastal lifestyle and nearby schools; the town is family-friendly with parks and beaches.
A portion of residents are retirees drawn to the tranquil landscape and slower pace of life.
Proximity to Edinburgh and regional towns makes Dunbar a convenient base for commuters and weekend travelers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
East Lothian is famous for its golf courses, many with sea views, offering world-class rounds nearby.
Local and regional matches are popular among residents; casual weekend games also common.
Rugby club matches and social events are part of the local sporting culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dunbar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and cafes offer vegetarian options—look for veggie pies, salads, pasta dishes, or seasonal veggie plates and ask the chef about substitutions.