Best Luxury Hotels in East Lothian
The rural and coastal enclave of East Lothian is a place of charming market towns, beach resorts and wild secluded bays, green and golden rolling countryside accented by red-tiled roofs and world-class golf courses. With its own August festival, cultural activities, spa hotels, racecourse and culinary trailblazers, East Lothian is fast proving itself as a superb holiday destination. And it’s so accessible – easily doable as a day trip from Edinburgh by train, bus or car, but best enjoyed over the course of a few days when you can unwind, breathe the sea air and settle into a slower pace of life.
Scotland, East Lothian, Gullane
Greywalls Hotel & Chez Roux
(4 stars)Stay in one of the upscale rooms or cottages (the largest of which sleeps 10) in this Edwardian Arts and Crafts country manor. The decor is classic and homely with antique furnishings, designer floral wallpapers, rolltop tubs, hanging tapestries and original fireplaces. Its 6 acres comprise a walled garden, an alfresco terrace, tennis courts, a croquet lawn and a putting green, all perched beside the Muirfield championship golf course. Inside you can sample elegant cuisine in the first Chez Roux Restaurant in Scotland, read a book from the library in a wood-panelled drawing room, get a massage in the spa and take tea in the garden room.
Scotland, East Lothian, Aberlady
The Leddie Hotel & Restaurant, East Lothian
(4 stars)The Leddie Hotel & Restaurant offers a modern take on the Scottish country inn, shaped by food, setting and an easy sense of escape. With twenty-seven rooms and suites, including two pet-friendly cottages, the hotel sits in the village of Aberlady on the East Lothian Golf Coast, positioned close enough to Edinburgh for culture and dining, yet far enough to enjoy coastal calm, open skies and a slower pace.
The building has long been part of village life and its recent restoration respects that role. Interiors are contemporary and stylish, using warm tones and natural materials. Its restaurant, recognised with an AA Rosette, is led by head chef Lewis Lane, and focuses on seasonal Scottish produce. A relaxed bar, terrace and lounge extend the social rhythm of the hotel, welcoming both guests and locals.
Scotland, East Lothian, Gullane
The Bonnie Badger
(5 stars)A restaurant with rooms, this establishment feels bijou and boutique. It’s certainly a good option for foodies; whether you dine a la carte at The Stables, on pub staples at Broc Bar, or grilled dishes in the Garden, you’ll be tucking into award-winning food (Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand 2022 and 5 AA Gold Stars), that follows the hotel’s ‘From Nature to Plate’ philosophy. Book a beamed loft room, a four-poster suite, a superior room with patio doors, a double or a deluxe room – all come with The Bonnie Badger’s own bath products.
