An Eastern Daytrip to Dunbar

The day

1. Dunbar Battery

   Just on the other side of the harbour, a short stroll leads to the Dunbar Battery. Constructed in 1781 to bring some modern defences to this coastal corner, it’s had many lives since then. After it was decided that the battery was no longer needed, a small hospital was built inside the walls. From there, it was turned into emergency accommodation and now, a viewpoint. You can find all of that history on information boards or simply enjoy the view out to the Bass Rock across the water!

2. 

   John Muir's Birthplace

   An attraction

   Dunbar’s town centre is packed with interesting spots, but one building sticks out more than most, thanks to the American flag hanging outside. That’s John Muir’s birthplace, the father of US National Parks! Now it’s a museum dedicated to his life and works. John Muir was born in Dunbar in 1838, emigrating to America at the age of 11. While he would spend most of his life away from his birthplace, he was incredibly proud of where he came from, never losing his Scottish accent. You can find loads of stories about this fascinating character inside, including the time he danced the Highland Fling atop a mountain to stay warm during a storm!

   More about John Muir's Birthplace

3. About 5 min on foot

   

   The Creel, Dunbar

   Food and drink

   My favourite spot for lunch in Dunbar is easily The Creel. If you’re a seafood fan then you’re in for a real treat, although the posh Scotch Egg I had was also delicious!

   More about The Creel, Dunbar
4. 

   The Creel Loaders

   An attraction

   Not far from The Creel, you can’t miss the statue of the Creel Loaders by Gardner Molloy. It’s a fitting reminder of the town’s fishing heritage and the industry’s unsung heroes. While the men sailed off to catch the fish, their wives had an equally important role baiting, cleaning, gutting and salting the fish once it came in. They were strong ladies too. Not only did they often have to carry their husbands to the boat so they could keep their feet dry, they also had to carry creels (baskets) of fish on their back. As the statue shows, it often took two men just to lift them, secured by a strap around the woman’s forehead!

   More about The Creel Loaders

5. About 5 min on foot

   

   Dunbar High Street

   An attraction

   It’s worth having a look along the High Street in Dunbar to grab a souvenir in one of the many wee gift shops. I love a browse around The Found Gallery, packed with interesting artwork, followed by a coffee at 1650 Coffee Shop.

   More about Dunbar High Street

6. About 30 min on foot

   

   Dunbar Clifftop Path to Belhaven Bay

   A walk

   Time to stretch the legs by following the Dunbar clifftop walk. These aren’t soaring cliffs and the paths are accessible for most, giving fantastic views of the coastline, especially back towards the castle and harbour. After you skirt the edge of the golf course, note the Belhaven Bridge, seemingly floating if the tide is in. That’s where its nickname “The Bridge To Nowhere” comes from, although it actually crosses a small stream to reach a beautiful beach at low tide! All that walking works up a thirst, so it’s lucky the coastal walk passes close to Belhaven Brewery! Established in 1719, Belhaven is Scotland’s oldest working brewery, still going strong. Just imagine, when the Jacobites won the nearby Battle of Prestonpans in 1745, maybe they celebrated with a pint of Belhaven Best! You can book a tour to learn more about 300 years of brewing or just have a look through the wee on-site shop before heading back into town.

   More about Dunbar Clifftop Path to Belhaven Bay