Things To Do
in Musselburgh
Musselburgh sits along the Firth of Forth in East Lothian, just a short ride east of Edinburgh, blending coastal scenery with a rich maritime heritage. The town is known for its historic racecourse, charming High Street, and family-friendly waterfront walks. It’s a convenient base for exploring East Lothian beaches, golf courses, and the John Muir Way along the coastline.
Expect a welcoming community vibe with easy access to city amenities and rural landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at a local café, where you can enjoy haggis, black pudding, and freshly baked scones. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through Musselburgh's historic center, admiring the beautiful architecture and learning about the town's rich history. Don't miss the chance to visit the Musselburgh Museum, where you can discover fascinating artifacts and exhibitions related to the local heritage.
In the afternoon, head to the iconic Fisherrow Harbour, where you can enjoy the picturesque views of the Firth of Forth. Consider taking a boat trip or simply walking along the waterfront, observing the various fishing boats and local wildlife. Stop for lunch at a seafood restaurant and savor the catch of the day while enjoying the salty sea breeze.
As the sun sets, take a scenic walk along the beach at Fisherrow, where the vibrant colors of the sunset reflect on the water. Choose a cozy pub for dinner, where you can indulge in traditional Scottish fare paired with a local ale. Cap off your evening with some live music at a nearby venue, soaking in the local culture and atmosphere.
Begin your day with a visit to the picturesque Musselburgh Beach, where you can enjoy a refreshing morning stroll along the sandy shore. As the waves crash gently, take a moment to breathe in the fresh sea air and watch local fishermen at work. After your walk, grab a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy it while watching the beach come to life.
Spend the afternoon indulging in various water sports available at the beach, including kayaking, paddleboarding, or even windsurfing. Join a local company for a guided session, perfect for both beginners and experienced participants looking to improve their skills. After an exhilarating time on the water, relax on the beach with a picnic lunch or sample local fish and chips from a nearby vendor.
As the day winds down, find a comfortable spot on the beach to watch the sunset over the Firth of Forth, a breathtaking sight that casts beautiful hues across the sky. For dinner, head to a seaside restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood and other local specialties. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the promenade, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🛏️Hotel or hostel per night | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🧺Groceries for a few days | $40-70 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact town with coast and culture
- Excellent base for East Lothian and easy day trips to Edinburgh
- Limited nightlife within Musselburgh itself
- Crowds during race events can be busier than usual
Places to Visit in Musselburgh
Visit one of these nice places.
Coastal marshes with birdlife and wide horizons, ideal for sunrise shots.
Long sandy stretch with views across the Firth of Forth and working fishing boats.
Historic bridge framing reflections and riverside scenes.
Distinctive town architecture and theatre-front photography opportunities.
Food in Musselburgh
Musselburgh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy smoked haddock soup commonly enjoyed with crusty bread at seaside cafés.
Must-Try!
Classic Scottish dish widely available in pubs and traditional eateries.
A coastal favorite at fish-and-chip shops and seaside cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh seafood, baked goods, and seasonal produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect queues in shops, cafes, and public transport queues.
A simple 'hello' or 'hi' is standard; handshakes are common for introductions.
Keep noise to a considerate level in residential areas, especially evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Musselburgh
Ensure a smooth experience
In pubs and restaurants, 10-15% is typical if service is not included; rounding up is common.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is still used, and contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with budding countryside and migratory birds returning; be prepared for showers.
Long daylight hours, coastal breezes, and opportunities for open-air dining and walks; expect some busy attractions.
Cooler air and crisp seaside walks; autumn colors along coastal paths and parks.
Shorter days and chilly seas; festive events in town and potential sea mist along the Firth.
Musselburgh at Night
Hiking in Musselburgh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal and parkland trail with sea views and accessible segments.
Dune-lined coastal walks with wildlife and open horizons.
Birdwatching trails with wetlands and tidal estuary scenery.
Airports
How to reach Musselburgh by plane.
Main international airport serving Musselburgh; about 8-12 miles away with rail and bus connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong family presence with parks, schools, and safe coastal spaces.
Many residents commute to Edinburgh for work; solid rail connections support this.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Musselburgh Links, the Old Golf Course, is one of the oldest in the world and remains a popular local sport.
Musselburgh Racecourse hosts flat racing events and is a regional sporting hub.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Musselburgh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are commonly available in pubs and cafés; ask for veggie dishes, soups, salads, or sides.