Page 34 - July 2025

IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD

Cramond Beach (Edinburgh)
A quieter alternative in Edinburgh, Cramond Beach charms visitors with its quaint whitewashed
cottages and scenic views across the Firth of Forth. This smaller sandy beach is popular with locals,
tourists, walkers, and cyclists who enjoy the paths along the shore.

Cramond also has a rich history – it’s one of the longest inhabited sites in Scotland, with archaeological
remains dating back thousands of years. After exploring the beach, visitors can enjoy refreshments
at the nearby pub or stop by a cosy coffee shop. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing day out, whether
you’re looking to unwind or take a gentle walk.
Aberdour Silver Sands (East Fife)

Portobello (Edinburgh) Eyemouth (Scottish Borders)
Of course, we had to include Portobello Just a short drive from Coldingham Bay is the On the Fife coast, Aberdour Silver Sands offers a wonderful blend of countryside
Beach! Just twenty minutes from the city charming fishing town of Eyemouth. Unlike many tranquillity and seaside freshness. This beach has been recognised for its quality and
centre, this two-mile stretch of sandy towns in the Borders, Eyemouth sits right on the environmental standards, proudly holding the Keep Scotland Beautiful Beach Award
beach offers plenty of space to sunbathe, coast, and its active harbour makes for a fascinating for an impressive 30 years.
play beach games with the family, or and lively backdrop.
simply stroll along the shore. The beach overlooks the islands of Inchmickery and Inchcolm, the latter of which is
home to a historic abbey that’s worth a visit if you’re exploring the area. The calm
For families, Eyemouth offers plenty to enjoy. Aside
The area of Portobello itself is bustling from the beach itself, you’ll find an array of local cafes waters and gentle waves here make it a lovely spot for families, while the peaceful
with life. You’ll find a great mix of bars, and restaurants serving fresh seafood, including surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for a quiet picnic or a relaxing afternoon.
cafes, and food trucks offering everything classic fish and chips. There are also amusements
from ice-cream to artisan coffee. There that kids will love, making it a fun, all round
are also amusements and a vibrant destination. One of the town’s unique attractions
promenade, making it a lively place for is the seals that regularly visit the harbour, eager
families and groups of friends. for a snack – and visitors can sometimes feed them, Yellowcraig (East Lothian) Gullane Bents (East Lothian)
which is always a memorable experience. Yellowcraig Beach is a hidden treasure offering Gullane Bents is a wide, sandy beach that
stunning natural beauty with views towards attracts locals and visitors alike with its
Fidra Island, where the Victorian lighthouse mix of natural beauty and recreational
inspired Treasure Island. This beach is especially opportunities. It’s perfect for families, walkers,
family-friendly, featuring a pirate-themed play sunbathers, and watersports enthusiasts
West Sands (St Andrews)
park that kids will adore and several nature trails who enjoy windsurfing and kitesurfing.
One of Scotland’s most famous beaches, West to explore.
Sands stretches for two miles of golden sand Behind the beach, you’ll find pathways
backed by dunes and grassland. Located just a Unlike busier beaches nearby, Yellowcraig offers through sand dunes that lead to Gullane
15-minute walk from St Andrews town centre, it’s a peaceful atmosphere with no cafés or bars Point, where spectacular views across the
an easy and popular choice for families and visitors. immediately adjacent. This makes it an ideal bay and the Firth of Forth await. Whether
location for a picnic or a barbecue, with facilities you’re spending a leisurely afternoon or
Whether you’re soaking up the sun, flying a kite, or available to book. Nature lovers will appreciate an active day by the sea, Gullane offers
simply enjoying a long beach walk, the combination the rich coastal environment and the chance to something for everyone.
of natural beauty and convenient access makes disconnect from the hustle and bustle.
this beach a firm favourite. Don’t forget to treat
West Sands yourself to an ice cream in town after your visit!
If you’re seeking a coastal lifestyle, head over to espc.com to find your perfect seaside property.

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