Between Edinburgh And North Berwick Is A Coastal Village With Nearby Historic Ruins, Wetlands, And Wildlife

While in Scotland, the big cultural hotspots like Edinburgh and Glasgow shouldn't be missed, of course. However, an excursion to some of the country's smaller towns somewhere off the beaten path also shouldn't be overlooked either. Tucked against a secluded inlet along the North Sea is Aberlady, a sleepy village with an ancient past, dotted with historic ruins and stunning natural landscapes to explore.

While the village might be quiet today, back in the Middle Ages, Aberlady would have been lively with religious activity. Monks from the Carmelite Order built a monastery on the village outskirts called Luffness Friary, which now sits in ruins amidst idyllic woodlands. Since it sits right by the coastline, this village was also a medieval port, but excavations suggest that it had once been a farming settlement as far back as the Iron Age. History buffs can also explore more medieval history not far from the village at Hailes Castle, the wonderfully eerie remains of a 13th-century fortress. 

Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts can bask in Aberlady's coastal scenery. Enjoy a stroll across the beaches and tidal marshes at the Aberlady Bay Local Nature Reserve, where flocks of shorebirds can be seen frolicking. Travelers coming from Edinburgh can either drive or take public transport to the village in about 40 minutes, while travelers by the coast in North Berwick are only about 15 minutes away by car (or 30 minutes by bus). While ideal as a day trip, a handful of accommodations makes Aberlady perfect for a weekend getaway.

If you're a history fiend, your first stop should be Luffness Friary, only about a 10-minute walk away from the main part of town. The footpath to the friary skirts along the coastline, offering a panoramic view of grassy meadows framing the water's edge before leading into shady woodlands. Amidst wizened trees and pleasant grassy clearings, the crumbling remains of Luffness Friary reveal themselves. A great spot for taking photos is the stone sarcophagus carved with the image of a medieval knight holding a sword.

Though there isn't much remaining of the original buildings, back in the 13th century, Luffness Friary would have been centered around a church with cloisters, along with dormitories where the monks would have slept, and kitchens for preparing their meals. A previous visitor on Google called it, "an unexpected historical location hidden away except for those who seek it out." Also worth a peek is the Luffness Water Tower nearby, a stone edifice rising up between the trees in a sprawling meadow.

For more historical explorations, make your way to Hailes Castle, just 20 minutes by car (or about two hours local bus). Previous visitors have recommended following roadsigns to the castle rather than relying on Google Maps, as the directions can be confusing. Though they are also in ruins, the crumbling stone walls sitting amidst sprawling lawns dotted with trees creates an atmospheric backdrop. Follow the footpaths to the castle's stone archways for a glimpse into what was once a formidable fortress. Hailes Castle even has ties to Mary, Queen of Scots back in the 16th century. Next, set off for more Scottish coastal adventures less than an hour's drive away in St. Abbs, a clifftop haven near the English border with ethereal seaside views.

If ancient monasteries don't excite you, then make your way to the seaside instead. Stretched along the curving coastline is the Aberlady Bay Local Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy some "peace and quiet," according to a previous visitor on Google. Gentle hillocks topped with swaying meadows frame the shorelines, while waterways weave between flat marshes. Take a relaxing stroll along the beaches by the seafront, or traverse the hilly landscape of sand dunes. Previous visitors have also recommended bringing layers because the exposed beaches can become very windy. A wooden footbridge leads visitors across the water into a sprawling woodland, where trees frame the narrow trails.

Birdwatchers should bring their binoculars and cameras as well, because the nature reserve is teeming with wildlife. Wading around the marsh grasses in the shallow waters are flocks of shorebirds like ducks, herons, and egrets, while flitting through the tree branches are species like magpies, rooks, and even owls. "Terrific location for birding especially in winter when thousands of geese arrive," said a previous visitor on Google. In a post to a Facebook birdwatching forum, another visitor also mentioned they had spotted Eurasian wigeons and common redshanks. Other critters like frogs and deer can also be seen roaming between the foliage.

After the day's adventures, weary travelers can retire to one of Aberlady's cozy lodgings. Book a room at The Leddie, an upscale boutique hotel tucked within a 17th-century manor, or spend the night camping at the Aberlady Caravan Park. For more coastal adventures in Scotland, drive just 45 minutes over to Eyemouth, a charming town with a beach, fishing, and fresh seafood. You could also head down to Northumberland, England's northernmost county with scenic landscapes and castles near Scotland's border.