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Yellowcraig Beach: A Scenic Family-Friendly Coastal Retreat in East Lothian

A scenic, family-friendly beach with stunning views of Fidra Island, adventure playpark, accessible paths, and rich natural surroundings in East Lothian.

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Yellowcraig Beach, located near North Berwick in East Lothian, Scotland, is a picturesque sandy cove known for its stunning views of Fidra Island and its historic lighthouse. Popular with families, it features an adventure playpark, accessible paths, picnic areas, and a network of nature trails through surrounding woodlands and grasslands. Facilities include toilets, showers, and parking with seasonal charges. The beach welcomes dogs year-round and offers opportunities for rock pooling, horseback riding, and wild camping under managed conditions.

A brief summary to Yellowcraig Beach

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking, as the pay-and-display car park fills quickly.
  • Bring picnic supplies or pre-book the barbecue area to enjoy meals outdoors, as there is no permanent café on site.
  • Use the wheelchair-accessible paths and viewing platforms to experience stunning coastal vistas if mobility is a concern.
  • Respect wild camping guidelines by keeping fires on sand or rocks only and cleaning up thoroughly to protect the environment.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Edinburgh, take the A198 towards Dirleton, then follow local signs to Yellowcraig. The car park offers around 800 spaces including disabled bays. Parking costs £3 per day during seasonal hours. Motorhome bays are available for £10 per night without advance booking.

  • Bus and Walking

    Take East Coast Buses services 124 or X5 from Edinburgh to Dirleton. From Dirleton, it is approximately a 30-40 minute walk along the John Muir Way or local footpaths to Yellowcraig Beach. The terrain includes some gentle slopes and sandy paths.

  • Cycling

    Cyclists can access Yellowcraig via local roads from North Berwick or Dirleton. Bike racks are available at the car park. The surrounding area features quiet roads and scenic routes suitable for moderate cycling.

Yellowcraig Beach location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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Discover more about Yellowcraig Beach

Natural Beauty and Coastal Landscape

Yellowcraig Beach is a broad, sandy bay nestled between two golf courses—Archerfield Links and North Berwick Links—offering expansive views across the Firth of Forth to Fidra Island. The island, crowned by its 1885 lighthouse, inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel Treasure Island. The beach’s tidal nature means its appearance changes dramatically throughout the day, revealing extensive rock pools and sandy stretches ideal for exploration. The surrounding dunes and woodland add to the tranquil, scenic atmosphere, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Family-Friendly Amenities and Activities

This beach is especially popular with families due to its safe, sheltered waters and well-maintained facilities. A large, pirate-themed adventure playpark with inclusive equipment caters to children of all abilities. Nearby picnic benches, including wheelchair-accessible options, provide comfortable spots to relax. The beach supports a variety of activities such as rock pooling, swimming, paddle boarding, and horseback riding. Dog owners appreciate the dedicated dog walking areas with bins provided, ensuring a clean environment for all visitors.

Accessibility and Facilities

Yellowcraig is equipped with wheelchair-accessible paths and ramps offering panoramic views over the beach. The car park includes designated Blue Badge parking bays, and accessible toilets are conveniently located near the parking area. Showers and clean restroom facilities enhance visitor comfort. Parking is pay-and-display with a daily fee, and there are designated motorhome bays available for overnight stays under regulated conditions. Rangers maintain the site, ensuring safety and environmental care.

Wild Camping and Environmental Stewardship

Unlike many wild camping spots, Yellowcraig Beach offers a more developed experience with ranger presence and facilities nearby. Visitors may camp on the beach under guidelines that protect the dunes and grasslands, with fires permitted only on the sand or rocks. The site encourages responsible use to preserve its natural beauty. The nearby woodland features a sculptural installation called 'Disperse,' symbolizing seed dispersal and intended to be reclaimed by nature over time.

Getting There and Nearby Attractions

The beach is accessible by car with a large parking area approximately 270 meters from the shore. Public transport options include buses to nearby Dirleton village, from where walking routes and the John Muir Way lead to Yellowcraig. The surrounding area offers additional attractions such as the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick and scenic coastal walks. Seasonal food outlets operate near the car park, though visitors often bring picnics or use the barbecue area available by prior booking.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Yellowcraig Beach combines natural charm with family-friendly infrastructure, creating a lively yet relaxing environment. Its clean sands, clear waters, and panoramic views provide a memorable coastal experience year-round. The blend of woodland, dunes, and sea offers diverse habitats and scenic variety, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking peaceful nature escapes. The beach’s reputation as a dog-friendly and adventure-friendly spot makes it a versatile destination for all ages.

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