Thorntree Inn Travel Guide

Free Guide: Coastal charm and warm hospitality meet at Thorntree Inn, Cockenzie’s welcoming local pub with stunning sea views and a relaxed vibe.

A brief summary of Thorntree Inn

Coastal charm and warm hospitality meet at Thorntree Inn, Cockenzie’s welcoming local pub with stunning sea views and a relaxed vibe.

Nestled on High Street in Cockenzie, the Thorntree Inn is a beloved local pub known for its warm hospitality, scenic sea views, and relaxed atmosphere. This inexpensive pub offers a cozy setting with both bar and lounge areas, making it ideal for locals and visitors seeking a genuine East Lothian experience. Open daily from noon, it blends traditional Scottish pub culture with a picturesque coastal backdrop.

1–3 hrsTime to spend
$Budget
IndoorSetting
4 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Information boards
4.6 Excellent · 234 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Mon12 pm–11 pm
  • Tue12 pm–11 pm
  • Wed12 pm–11 pm
  • Thu12 pm–11 pm
  • Fri12 pm–12:30 am
  • Sat12 pm–12:30 am
  • Sun12 pm–11 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
100 High St, Cockenzie, Prestonpans EH32 0DQ
Phone
Website

Getting there

Bus

Take the Lothian Buses service from Edinburgh city center to Prestonpans, with a journey time of approximately 45 to 60 minutes. From Prestonpans, a 15-minute walk along the coast leads to Cockenzie High Street where the Thorntree Inn is located. Bus fares typically range from £4 to £6 one-way.

Car

Driving from Edinburgh to the Thorntree Inn takes about 25 to 35 minutes via the A199 coastal route. Limited street parking is available near the pub, so arriving early is advisable. There are no parking fees, but spaces can be scarce during peak times.

Train and Walk

Take a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Prestonpans station, a journey of around 15 minutes. From the station, a 20-minute scenic walk eastwards along the coast will bring you to the Thorntree Inn. Train fares start at approximately £5 one-way.

Discover more about Thorntree Inn

A Storied Coastal Gathering Place

The Thorntree Inn stands as a cherished community hub on Cockenzie's High Street, steeped in the traditions of East Lothian’s coastal life. Its location near the shore provides patrons with sweeping views of the sea, enhancing the pub’s inviting ambiance. The building itself reflects a classic Scottish pub aesthetic, with a welcoming façade that hints at the warmth inside.

Atmosphere and Hospitality

Inside, the Thorntree Inn offers both a lively bar and a more relaxed lounge area, catering to different moods and occasions. The atmosphere is friendly and inclusive, drawing a mix of locals and visitors alike. The staff are known for their welcoming nature, ensuring everyone feels at home whether stopping by for a quiet drink or socializing with friends.

Drinks and Dining Experience

While the pub is praised for its excellent service and ambiance, it is noted that traditional cask ales are absent, with only ghost hand pumps present as a nod to classic draught beer. Despite this, the drink selection remains varied and affordable, aligning with its inexpensive price group. The menu offers typical pub fare, complementing the beverage choices and making it a comfortable spot for casual dining.

Community and Cultural Significance

The Thorntree Inn is more than just a pub; it is a vital part of Cockenzie’s social fabric. It hosts locals who cherish it as the best pub in this part of East Lothian, providing a place to unwind and connect. The pub’s setting near the historic fishing village adds layers of cultural heritage to the experience, connecting visitors to the region’s maritime past.

Setting and Surroundings

Set against the backdrop of the Firth of Forth, the Thorntree Inn benefits from its scenic coastal environment. Visitors can enjoy views of the water while relaxing indoors or in any outdoor seating areas nearby. The surrounding town of Prestonpans offers additional historic and cultural attractions, making the pub a perfect stop on a broader exploration of East Lothian.

Visiting and Practical Details

Open daily from noon until late evening, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays, the Thorntree Inn accommodates both early and late visitors. Its location on the main street makes it accessible, and the welcoming atmosphere ensures a pleasant visit regardless of the time of day. While parking and public transport details vary, the pub’s central position in Cockenzie makes it a convenient destination for day-trippers and locals alike.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Dec · at 1am or at 6am or at 7am

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 38% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 38% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 50% of the busiest month
  4. Apr: 63% of the busiest month
  5. May: 75% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 88% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 100% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 75% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 63% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 50% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 38% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 12am: 22% of the busiest hour
  2. 1am: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  3. 6am: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  4. 7am: 11% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  5. 8am: 22% of the busiest hour
  6. 9am: 33% of the busiest hour
  7. 10am: 33% of the busiest hour
  8. 11am: 44% of the busiest hour
  9. 12pm: 56% of the busiest hour
  10. 1pm: 67% of the busiest hour
  11. 2pm: 67% of the busiest hour
  12. 3pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  13. 4pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  14. 5pm: 89% of the busiest hour
  15. 6pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  16. 7pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  17. 8pm: 89% of the busiest hour
  18. 9pm: 78% of the busiest hour
  19. 10pm: 56% of the busiest hour
  20. 11pm: 44% of the busiest hour

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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