Soutra: Scenic Café at the Foot of Soutra Hill
Scenic café at Soutra Hill’s foot offering homemade treats, hearty lunches, and stunning views across East Lothian to the Bass Rock.
Soutra is a charming independent café located at House of Soutra, nestled at the northern foot of Soutra Hill just off the A68 near Pathhead, Scotland. Renowned for its expansive views stretching towards the North Sea and Bass Rock, it offers a welcoming stop for travelers and locals alike. The café serves a variety of homemade cakes, hearty lunches, and specialty coffees, with options catering to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets. Its spacious, family-friendly setting includes indoor seating and a terrace for enjoying the surrounding rural landscape.
A brief summary to Soutra
- A68 Blacksheils, Pathhead, EH37 5TF, GB
- +441875833795
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Try the homemade cakes and traybakes, which change daily and include gluten-free and vegan options.
- Enjoy your meal on the outdoor terrace when weather permits for panoramic views of the surrounding hills and sea.
- The café is family-friendly with a dedicated play area for children and high chairs available.
- Plan your visit between 9am and 4pm during winter months, and until 5pm in summer for full service.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Soutra location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Soutra
A Picturesque Setting at the Edge of Three Regions
Soutra café is uniquely positioned at the meeting point of Midlothian, East Lothian, and the Scottish Borders, offering visitors stunning panoramic views over rolling farmland and hills. From its vantage point at the northern foot of Soutra Hill, the vista extends eastward across East Lothian to the North Sea, with the iconic Bass Rock visible on clear days. This rural landscape provides a tranquil backdrop, making Soutra a perfect rest stop for travelers on the A68 or those exploring the scenic countryside.A Culinary Haven with Homemade Delights
The café is celebrated for its extensive range of homemade baked goods, boasting over 300 recipes that rotate daily. Visitors can indulge in scones, shortbread, cakes, meringues, and traybakes, all crafted with care. Beyond sweet treats, Soutra offers hearty lunches including sandwiches, paninis, flatbreads, soups served with cheese scones, and baked potatoes. The menu thoughtfully accommodates dietary needs with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options always available. Locally sourced ingredients from the Scottish Borders and Lothian regions emphasize the café’s commitment to quality and community support.Warm Hospitality and Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Soutra prides itself on a welcoming environment that caters to families and individuals alike. The spacious interior features large windows that frame the spectacular views, while an outdoor terrace invites guests to dine al fresco when weather permits. The café is mother and baby friendly, equipped with high chairs and a dedicated play area featuring toys, a train set, and a colouring table to keep children entertained. Disabled access is thoughtfully provided via low-gradient ramps, ensuring ease of entry for all visitors.A Convenient and Relaxing Stop for Travelers
Located just off the A68 at Blackshiels, Soutra is easily accessible without detours, making it an ideal spot for a break during long journeys between Edinburgh and the Scottish Borders. Ample parking, including disabled spaces, is available. The café’s calm ambiance and scenic surroundings offer a peaceful retreat, whether you’re pausing for a quick coffee or a leisurely lunch. Takeaway options are also offered for those on the move.Local Character and Sustainable Practices
Soutra’s dedication to local sourcing not only supports regional producers but also enhances the freshness and authenticity of its offerings. The café’s use of ingredients from nearby farms and suppliers reflects a sustainable approach that resonates with environmentally conscious visitors. This connection to place enriches the overall experience, blending culinary enjoyment with a sense of cultural and natural heritage.Seasonal Hours and Community Engagement
Open daily, Soutra adjusts its hours seasonally, welcoming guests from 9am to 5pm during the warmer months (April to October) and from 9am to 4pm in the winter. This schedule accommodates both early risers and afternoon visitors. The café also serves as a local gathering spot, where friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere foster a sense of community and belonging.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Soutra Aisle
1.0 km
Medieval hospital ruins where 12th-century monks pioneered surgical medicine on Scotland's ancient Royal Road.
East Peaston
6.8 km
A tranquil historic hamlet in East Lothian offering scenic countryside charm and a glimpse into Scotland’s agricultural heritage.
Dalhousie Castle Hotel And Spa
13.6 km
Experience medieval grandeur and modern luxury at Dalhousie Castle Hotel and Spa, nestled in scenic Scottish parkland near Edinburgh.
Newton Tower
15.3 km
Explore Newton Tower, a unique early 17th-century ruined church tower in Dalkeith, rich in history and surrounded by tranquil old gravestones.
St Martin's Kirk
16.0 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Romanesque ruins of St Martin's Kirk, a cornerstone of Haddington's medieval spiritual heritage and Reformation history.
Monkton House
16.1 km
Experience historic Scottish charm and elegant celebrations at Monkton House, a unique 15th-century castle wedding venue near Edinburgh.
Melville Castle Hotel
16.2 km
Experience regal Scottish luxury and historic charm at Melville Castle Hotel, a serene castle retreat near Edinburgh with elegant rooms and fine dining.
Byrecleugh Burn
17.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Byrecleugh Burn, a tranquil river in the Scottish Borders perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Maiden Castle
17.3 km
Explore the subtle earthworks and ancient mysteries of Maiden Castle, a prehistoric fortification nestled in the scenic Midlothian landscape.
Hirendean Castle
17.5 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Hirendean Castle, a 16th-century peel tower nestled in Scotland’s serene Moorfoot Hills with rich history and haunting legends.
Roslin Memorial
18.5 km
A serene memorial honoring the 1303 Battle of Roslin, a pivotal Scottish victory during the Wars of Independence.
Roslin Parish Church
18.7 km
Explore the historic Roslin Parish Church, a serene haven of spirituality and stunning architecture in the heart of Roslin village.
Arthur's Seat
22.3 km
Climb Edinburgh’s ancient volcanic peak for breathtaking panoramic views and a journey through natural and historic wonders.
Innocent Railway Tunnel
22.7 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest railway tunnel, a historic horse-drawn coal route transformed into a vibrant urban walking and cycling path in Edinburgh.
Historic Environment Scotland
22.8 km
Victorian hospital turned heritage headquarters, where Scotland's architectural legacy is preserved and celebrated.
Unmissable attractions to see
Glenkinchie Distillery
7.4 km
Discover the delicate floral notes and rich heritage of Scotland’s iconic Lowland whisky at Glenkinchie Distillery near Edinburgh.
Crichton Castle
7.5 km
Discover Crichton Castle’s striking Renaissance façade and rich Scottish history nestled in a tranquil Midlothian valley.
Vogrie Country Park
8.3 km
Explore 105 hectares of Victorian parkland, woodland trails, family fun, and historic charm at Vogrie Country Park in Midlothian.
Newbyres Castle
11.1 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Newbyres Castle, a 16th-century Scottish tower house nestled in tranquil Midlothian countryside.
Cousland Smiddy Trust
11.8 km
Experience Scotland’s last working blacksmith forge and village heritage at Cousland Smiddy, where history and craft come alive.
Gore Glen Woodland Park
12.5 km
Discover tranquil woodland trails and panoramic Pentland Hills views in Gore Glen Woodland Park, a natural oasis rich in wildlife and history.
Yester Castle
12.6 km
Explore the haunting ruins of Yester Castle and its legendary Goblin Hall, where medieval history meets magical folklore in East Lothian.
National Mining Museum Scotland
12.7 km
Explore Scotland’s coal mining heritage at the historic Lady Victoria Colliery, with immersive tours, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly experiences.
Butterdean Wood
13.4 km
Discover peaceful trails, wildlife sculptures, and rich woodland heritage in Butterdean Wood, East Lothian’s serene natural haven.
Old Temple Kirk
13.8 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Old Temple Kirk, a medieval church steeped in Knights Templar history and nestled in tranquil Midlothian countryside.
Lennoxlove House
14.0 km
Explore Lennoxlove House, a majestic 15th-century Scottish estate rich in history, art, and noble heritage nestled in tranquil East Lothian woodlands.
Thirlestane Castle
14.0 km
Explore Thirlestane Castle, a majestic 16th-century Scottish fortress with grand interiors, rich history, and enchanting gardens in the Borders.
Black Castle - East Lothian
14.3 km
Discover the ancient earthworks of Black Castle, an Iron Age hillfort nestled in East Lothian’s scenic countryside near Haddington.
Fort Douglas Adventure Park
14.4 km
A magical adventure playground for children set within the historic and scenic Dalkeith Country Park near Edinburgh.
Dalkeith Corn Exchange
14.4 km
Historic 19th-century Jacobean-style Corn Exchange turned vibrant museum and cultural landmark in Dalkeith’s heart.
Essential places to dine
Soutra
0.0 km
Scenic café at Soutra Hill’s foot offering homemade treats, hearty lunches, and stunning views across East Lothian to the Bass Rock.
The Foresters
7.4 km
A warm, welcoming pub in Pathhead serving hearty Scottish fare and international dishes in a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.
Carfraemill
8.1 km
Family-run country hotel in the Scottish Borders with award-winning restaurant and Lammermuir Hill views.
The Coronation Restaurant
11.2 km
Cozy Midlothian eatery serving hearty Scottish classics with standout steaks and warm, attentive service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Memories of India
12.5 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Gorebridge, Midlothian.
The Dungeon Restaurant
13.6 km
A candlelit fine-dining experience in the atmospheric vaults beneath Dalhousie Castle, blending Scottish ingredients with French technique in a storybook setting.
The Campaign Room Bistro
13.7 km
Historic charm meets seasonal British cuisine in a tranquil mansion setting near Musselburgh.
The Sun Inn
13.8 km
A cozy gastropub and inn in Dalkeith offering hearty meals, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming Scottish atmosphere with a rooftop terrace and garden.
The Cavaliere Italian Restaurant
14.4 km
A beloved Dalkeith institution serving authentic Italian classics with wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta since 1968.
Justinlees Inn
14.7 km
A welcoming Dalkeith pub offering diverse British and vegan menus, friendly service, and a family-friendly atmosphere with reasonable prices.
The Mercat Bar & Grill
14.8 km
Discover delightful dishes and refreshing drinks at The Mercat Bar & Grill – where flavor meets fun in Musselburgh.
Craig House Brewers Fayre
15.0 km
Historic charm meets hearty British fare in a family-friendly pub nestled in scenic East Lothian countryside near Musselburgh.
Gigi's Italian Restaurant
15.4 km
Authentic Italian dining in Bonnyrigg with a warm family atmosphere, classic pizzas, pastas, and seafood served daily from noon to midnight.
Tyneside Tavern and Mazzoli Italian Kitchen
15.4 km
A charming fusion of Scottish pub warmth and authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Haddington, East Lothian.
Brasserie Bar & Grill @ Maitlandfield Hotel
15.5 km
Historic charm meets seasonal Scottish cuisine in a cozy brasserie setting at Maitlandfield House Hotel, Haddington.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Beech & Birch - Scandinavian and British Homeware
11.8 km
Discover the charm of Scandinavian and British homeware in the heart of Gifford’s picturesque village.
Ideal Store
13.1 km
Explore Ideal Store in Newtongrange for unique tools, quality home supplies, and local craftsmanship that will enhance your travel experience.
The Original Factory Shop (Tranent)
13.7 km
Discover unbeatable bargains on fashion, homewares, and more at The Original Factory Shop in Tranent, your local discount shopping destination.
The Kitchen at Restoration Yard
14.4 km
Discover the culinary charm of The Kitchen at Restoration Yard, a delightful restaurant in the heart of Dalkeith Country Park, offering local flavors and scenic views.
Restoration Yard
14.5 km
Discover a unique blend of curated shopping, seasonal dining, and wellness in a historic stableyard at Dalkeith Country Park.
B&M Store
14.5 km
Affordable shopping with a wide selection of discounted goods in the heart of Dalkeith’s High Street.
Mr Melts Wax
14.5 km
Discover handcrafted candles and unique home decor at Mr Melts Wax, Dalkeith's charming homewares shop.
8 Yards Ltd
14.6 km
Discover bespoke Scottish menswear and over 5,000 clan tartans at 8 Yards Ltd, Dalkeith’s premier kilt and traditional clothing boutique.
Haddington Retail Park
14.9 km
Modern retail hub in East Lothian offering diverse stores, dining, and sustainable amenities with ample parking and extended hours.
Rosehall Stores
15.3 km
Experience local charm at Rosehall Stores, a cozy supermarket in Haddington offering fresh produce and unique Scottish delicacies.
The Original Factory Shop (Haddington)
15.7 km
Affordable quality and variety await at The Original Factory Shop in Haddington, your local destination for unbeatable bargains.
The Malt Kiln..
15.7 km
Discover artisan cheeses and unique gifts in the heart of historic Haddington at The Malt Kiln.
Gibsons Of Haddington
15.7 km
Discover expert watch repairs and unique gifts in the heart of historic Haddington’s Market Street.
Nungate Minimarket
15.8 km
Discover Nungate Minimarket in Haddington, your go-to convenience store for local snacks and essentials during your Scottish adventure.
Longniddry Village Shop
16.8 km
Your friendly local convenience store in Longniddry, offering fresh bakery items, local products, and essentials with early opening hours every day.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dean Tavern
13.1 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Newtongrange offering great food, excellent beer, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Whispers Lounge Bar
14.0 km
A cozy, family-run pub offering hearty meals and local drinks in the heart of Tranent’s historic High Street.
Ship Inn
14.5 km
A welcoming traditional pub on Dalkeith’s High Street offering hearty fare, local ales, and a friendly community atmosphere.
The Royal Oak
15.6 km
A cozy and affordable British pub in Bonnyrigg, offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a warm local atmosphere.
The Plough Tavern
15.6 km
A welcoming Scottish pub and hotel in Haddington offering hearty traditional fare, local ales, and cozy accommodation in a historic setting.
Mercat
15.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and lively local charm at Mercat Pub, the heart of Haddington’s social scene.
The New Pheasant
15.8 km
Experience warm Scottish hospitality and hearty local fare at The New Pheasant, a cozy pub nestled in the heart of historic Haddington.
Levenhall Arms
16.4 km
A cozy Musselburgh pub famed for quality real ales, hearty Indian-inspired pub food, and warm local hospitality.
Laird & Dog Inn
16.4 km
A charming traditional inn in Lasswade offering hearty Scottish fare, friendly service, and a cozy base near Edinburgh.
The New Prestoungrange Gothenburg
16.4 km
Historic coastal pub in Prestonpans blending heritage, craft beers, and scenic sea views for a memorable social experience.
Old Colliery
16.8 km
Friendly family pub near Edinburgh with hearty food, dog-friendly perks, and a proud mining heritage in a welcoming community setting.
Thorntree Inn
17.1 km
Coastal charm and warm hospitality meet at Thorntree Inn, Cockenzie’s welcoming local pub with stunning sea views and a relaxed vibe.
The David MacBeth Moir - JD Wetherspoon
17.5 km
A welcoming JD Wetherspoon pub in Musselburgh offering hearty meals, local ales, and a lively atmosphere from breakfast to late night.
Salisbury Arms Edinburgh
22.6 km
A stylish gastropub blending traditional charm with fresh British fare and vibrant local atmosphere in Edinburgh’s southside.
The Argyle and Cellar Bar
23.5 km
A vibrant Edinburgh pub with cozy cellar music, quality ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Argyle Place.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Indigo Rooms
23.6 km
Experience Galashiels' vibrant nightlife at The Indigo Rooms, a welcoming nightclub and bar with themed events and a lively atmosphere.
Warehouse Nightclub
23.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic music scene at Warehouse Nightclub, Galashiels’ lively hub after dark.
The Mash House
23.9 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
23.9 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
23.9 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
24.0 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Sneaky Pete's
24.1 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
24.1 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
24.1 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
24.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Street
24.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Edinburgh at The Street, a lively cocktail bar and restaurant offering delicious drinks and a diverse menu.
Leith Dockers Club
24.6 km
Discover the vibrant Leith Dockers Club, a social haven in Edinburgh offering live music, community events, and a taste of local culture.
Shanghai Nightclub
24.7 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
24.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
24.7 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Eco-Friendly
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly