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.
Gullane, East Lothian, Scotland
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.