Just Outside Edinburgh Is One Of Scotland's Oldest Towns With Coastal Vibes, Golf Courses, And Historic Charm

Millions of visitors (according to Visit Scotland) flock to Scotland every year to experience its wild natural beauty, trendy cities, fairytale-like castles, and famous whisky scene, but its rich yet turbulent history might just be one of the biggest highlights. And if you're a history buff coming to the country to connect with its past, there's one place definitely worth adding to your itinerary: Musselburgh.

Widely recognized as Scotland's oldest town, Musselburgh was first settled by the Romans around A.D. 80. But while history might be what draws visitors to Musselburgh in the first place, it's just one of the many facets worth exploring around here. The town is located on the shores of the Firth of Forth in East Lothian, and its name was even derived from the many mussel beds scattered along the waterfront. Today, you'll get to enjoy all the beachy fun around Fisherrow while taking in the picturesque harbor views. Golfers have another piece of local history to look forward to at the Musselburgh Links, described by Visit East Lothian as the "oldest playing golf course in the world," with origins dating back to the 17th century.

Coming here shouldn't be too difficult even if you don't have a car. The town is located just outside of Edinburgh — around 7 miles east — with the local ScotRail service covering the distance in less than 10 minutes. Even the capital's airport, which serves as the nearest major entry point, is less than an hour away via public transport, with direct transfers being even quicker, hovering around the 30-minute mark.

Musselburgh's history dates back to the Roman invasion of Scotland around A.D. 80, when the conquerors built a fort at nearby Inveresk and bridged the River Esk, establishing an important connection to the capital. According to Undiscovered Scotland, Musselburgh is a strong contender for the title of "Scotland's oldest town," while Visit East Lothian treats that as fact. Because definitions of the word "town" vary and records from ancient times aren't always complete, this remains a topic of debate. Either way, Musselburgh is old.

The town's lengthy past is well worth exploring, and one of the best ways to do so is to walk the Musselburgh and Fisherrow Circular. It's a 5-mile route that features several points of interest, including a late-medieval harbor with views of Edinburgh, a 1496 Tolbooth clock, Roman Inveresk, where a Roman fort operated in the second century, and a 16th-century bridge. Touring these landmarks provides just a small glimpse into the country's long, complex past, and you might just get a bit of insight into why calling Scots "British" is a major unspoken etiquette rule you shouldn't break here.

The Musselburgh Museum is also a must-visit. Featuring both permanent displays and themed exhibitions, this is the place to learn more about the locals' work and social life throughout the years. Admission is free, and you'll find the building right next to the Old Town Hall, which dates back to the 16th century and is an attraction worth exploring in its own right. For more historical charm, plan a day trip roughly 10 miles southwest to Roslin, a quiet village with a scenic chapel, castle ruins, and secret staircases.

Musselburgh's history is just one of its many draws, and the town's coastal charms are another that visitors won't want to miss. Located where the River Esk meets the Firth of Forth, the town promises visitors access to the historic Fisherrow Harbour and its nearby beach. The harbor dates back to the 17th century and makes for a pleasant spot to stroll along the coastline and watch the boats pass by. If you're looking to fish, there are also options at places such as Gladhouse Reservoir and the River Tyne.

The beaches comprise both sand and shingle sections, with visitors praising their cleanliness and peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere. Those strolling along the shore can take in the wide views across the Firth of Forth and even take their dog for a walk. Amenities include a children's play area, public restrooms, and free daytime parking.

All that said, if you're a golfer coming to Musselburgh, there's one place that needs to be at the top of your itinerary: the Musselburgh Links. While it is believed that Mary, Queen of Scots, played here in 1567, documented games date back to 1672, making this one of the world's oldest golf courses. A former Open Championship venue, it is now a publicly accessible nine-hole course in excellent condition, and the layout challenges golfers of all experience levels. Keep the outdoorsy adventures going by covering with a trip to Pentland Hills Regional Park next, a scenic park where visitors can hike and fish while enjoying lakes, rolling hills, and unique wildlife.