Just outside Scotland’s capital of Edinburgh lies East Lothian. Known for its championship golf courses and sweeping beaches, the region offers far more than first meets the eye. Whether you’re visiting to take part in one of Chippendale’s furniture-making courses or simply exploring a new corner of Scotland, there’s plenty waiting to be discovered.
As an international furniture school, we welcome students from across the globe. Many spend weeks (or even months) immersed in their craft, while also taking time to explore the area. Over the years, this community has built up a list of favourite local spots and hidden gems, many of which you won’t find in any old tourist book.
Here’s our guide to some of the best things to do and see in East Lothian, inspired by both locals and visitors alike.
1. Furniture-making courses at Chippendale International School of Furniture
If you’re looking for something a little different to do whilst you’re here, craft classes or workshops are a brilliant way to build new skills and meet the local community.
Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or settling in for an extended period, we offer a range of furniture-making courses to make your visit to East Lothian a memorable one. Plus, the workshop is set in the heart of the countryside, offering stunning views of the region as you work.
- Weekend courses: Our weekend courses in woodturning and spoon carving are ideal for short breaks, giving you a chance to switch off, learn new skills and leave with a handcrafted souvenir.
- 1-week course, 4-week course & 10-week course: For those staying longer, or East Lothian locals, these courses provide a deeper dive into furniture making, allowing you time to build confidence in furniture making, refine your technique and fully immerse yourself in the workshop.
2. Indulge in tasty baked goods
East Lothian is home to a brilliant mix of independent bakeries, cafés and farm shops to discover.
After a morning working away in a furniture-making course, there’s nothing quite like a warm cup of coffee and a freshly baked treat, so it is no surprise we have an extensive list of recommendations.
- Bostock Bakery, East Linton: Famous for its viennoiserie and seasonal bakes, this bakery often draws queues. They also have a store in North Berwick, the perfect pit-stop for a coastal road trip.
- The Foraging Goat, Haddington: Offers an excellent array of quality local produce, letting you sample the very best of what the area has to offer.
- Station House Bakery, Haddington: Weekly pop-ups serve a tempting selection of delicious sourdough pastries and takeaway treats to accompany you on a day of exploring.
- Carfrae Farm Shop: A little more rural, this farm shop is well worth the detour to stock up on lunch or picnic supplies – provided the weather stays on your side! If the weather does take a turn, there’s a lovely little hut you can enjoy your lunch in.
- Lantern Rouge, Gifford: A laid-back village café serving quality coffee and food.
- Humbie Hub: A true local gem. Part café, part farm shop, and a great place to refuel while soaking in East Lothian’s countryside views.
3. Take a stroll along East Lothian’s coastlines
No visit to East Lothian is complete without time outdoors, and few places offer such an easy mix of beaches, coastal paths and open hill walks. Embrace the slower pace here and explore the landscape, whether it’s a gentle wander or something more invigorating for the avid trekkers.
- John Muir Way: A scenic trail tracing the coastline and countryside through some of East Lothian’s most beautiful spots.
- Beaches: Tyninghame and Yellowcraigs are favourites for wide sandy stretches and stunning sea views, while Gullane and North Berwick offer quaint beach town walks.
- Hill walks: Traprain Law and North Berwick Law provide short but rewarding climbs with panoramic views.
- Lammermuir Hills: For a longer walk, the moorland, purple heather, and rolling hills evoke classic Scottish landscapes straight out of Outlander.
4. Learn about East Lothian’s rich history
For those interested in the stories behind the landscapes, East Lothian’s museums and historic sites offer fascinating insight into the region’s past.
- National Museum of Flight, East Fortune: Discover East Lothian’s aviation heritage through historic aircraft, interactive exhibits, and impressive hangars. A must-see for anyone curious about design, engineering, and craftsmanship.
- Tantallon Castle: Dramatically perched on cliffs above the Firth of Forth, the striking ruins provide a glimpse into the area’s medieval history.
5. Music festivals
Visitors who are drawn to creativity in all its forms will also find great pleasure in East Lothian’s vibrant calendar of music and art festivals.
- Fringe by the Sea, North Berwick, 31 July – 9 August 2026: Live music, comedy, talks, and performances set against the gorgeous coastal backdrop. A mix of established names and emerging talent makes creativity feel accessible to all.
- Lammermuir Festival, 9-20 September 2026: A celebration of classical and contemporary music in historic buildings, churches, and other beautiful local venues.
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If this has inspired you to explore East Lothian and learn more about our furniture-making courses, we’d love to hear from you – get in touch!