3 of our favourite underrated day trips from Edinburgh (that also happen to be accessible by train)

Published on December 11, 2023 at 9:30 am

While Edinburgh is one of the UK’s most enchanting cities, sometimes its surrounding towns get forgotten by visitors and locals alike. Whether you need an escape from city life, or are simply curious to explore more of the area, here are three of our favourite underrated day trips, which are all accessible by train from Edinburgh Waverley.

View of Linlithgow.

Summary

2. Dunbar
3. Aberdour

1. Linlithgow

The frustratingly overlooked town of Linlithgow is all-too-often left off of most people’s itineraries when visiting Scotland, but this town is bursting with charm and history. From Edinburgh Waverley, the direct train to Linlithgow takes around 20 minutes on average. Trains are regular (there are up to 70 per day) and operated by ScotRail, so there’s truly no better way to get from the capital to the historic town.

View of Linlithgow Palace and Loch.

There’s so much to see in Linlithgow, but an obvious place to start is at the Palace and its Loch. Construction of the palace was ordered by King James I and began in 1424. It would serve as a “pleasure palace” for the King and many Scottish monarchs that followed. In 1542, Mary Stuart was born at the palace. When King James IV moved the royal court to London, the residence was abandoned before succumbing to a fire in 1746. A fascinating site, the palace and its Loch are well worth visiting. After that visit, don’t forget to walk through the town centre, where you will come across the astonishing Cross Well. If you’re in the mood for a walk, you can explore the stunning nature that surrounds Linlithgow, we particularly love Beecraigs Country Park.

Mist takes over Beecraigs Country Park.

2. Dunbar

A charming seaside town, Dunbar is known around Scotland for its high sunshine record. Located only 50km from Edinburgh, Dunbar is a quick and easy train ride from the Scottish capital. Regular services operated by various companies run from Edinburgh Waverley every day. Find out more about train times here.

Dunbar, East Lothian, Scotland.

Known for its coast, you cannot come to Dunbar without seeing Victoria Harbour. The panoramic view and skyline offered along this rocky coast is enough to instantly take anyone’s breath away. Some standout beaches include Belhaven and Thorntonloch, both well worth going to, but if you’re in the mood for something different, why not take a tour of the oldest brewery in Scotland, the Belhaven Brewery and taste some authentic Scottish beer.

Victoria Harbour in Dunbar, East Lothian, Scotland.

3. Aberdour

A town known for its stunning beaches, Aberdour is the perfect compliment to any trip to Edinburgh. A short 30 minute train ride from the capital, there’s no excuse to miss out on all the wonders Aberdour has to offer. There are up to 33 trains that run everyday from Edinburgh Waverley to the small seaside town, and they are operated by ScotRail.

Gardens of Aberdour’s medieval castle.

Once in town, head to the castle, a stunning residence which dates back to the 1100s. The peculiar gardens also add something extra unique to the grounds. Of course, no trip to Aberdour would be complete without heading to the beach. The Harbour is a great choice, and so is Black Sands, but you could also try Silver Sands. If you’re a golfer, why not head to Aberdour Golf Club, where you can play the gentleman’s game with an exceptional view of the Scottish coast.

Misty coastal views in Aberdour.

by Editorial Team