Holiday Parks in East Lothian

East Lothian, a Scottish gem, offers families a perfect blend of coastal retreats, rolling countryside, and engaging attractions. Dive into the local scene with fresh seafood from North Berwick, or indulge in a round of golf where the sport was born. Kids will love the National Museum of Flight, while Tantallon Castle provides stunning cliff-top views. Did you know East Lothian is dubbed 'Scotland's Food & Drink County' for its rich produce? Opting for a holiday park here means uncomplicated quality time with loved ones, where convenience meets nature's playground, making every moment of your stay both relaxing and memorable.

Have You Discovered UK Holiday Parks?

These self-contained resorts offer caravans, lodges, and sometimes tents or glamping pods. You can enjoy a range of facilities including swimming pools, entertainment venues, kids' clubs, and restaurants. They're designed for families looking for a break where everything is on your doorstep!

Holiday parks offer more space and freedom than hotels, such as separate bedrooms, living areas, and your own outdoor space. With the added bonus of on-site amenities and entertainment. They're self-catering too, saving money on dining out.

Going for a UK holiday park means you can forget about stressful airports, and luggage restrictions, and you can pack the car with as many of your home comforts as you like. Plus, you're contributing to the local economy and reducing your carbon footprint.

Why Take Your 2024 Family Holiday Park Break in East Lothian?

East Lothian, with its rolling countryside and stunning coastline, is a gem for family holidays. It's steeped in history, from ancient battlefields to grand castles like Tantallon, but it's never stuffy.

What's new? Look out for upgraded facilities at parks, reflecting the latest in family-friendly accommodation.

Festivals and events: The county buzzes with events like the North Berwick Highland Games and Fringe by the Sea.

Why here? East Lothian's holiday parks offer a blend of rural retreat and seaside escape, with unique local attractions like the National Museum of Flight.

If you're visiting East Lothian with kids

Absolutely, East Lothian is a playground for kids. They can explore beaches, visit the Scottish Seabird Centre, or get hands-on at East Links Family Park.

Main attractions: Besides the beaches, there's Myreton Motor Museum for little car fans and the Conifox Adventure Park.

Why a holiday park? Kids thrive with the freedom and variety of activities on offer, and parents appreciate the self-catering options and on-site amenities.

1. Comfortable walking shoes
2. Swimwear and towels
3. Sunscreen and hats
4. Waterproof jackets
5. Beach toys and buckets
6. First aid kit
7. Car seat or booster
8. Portable high chair for toddlers
9. Travel cot if needed
10. Snacks for day trips

Pet Friendly East Lothian Adventures

East Lothian is a treat for pets, with many walks and dog-friendly beaches.

Pet-friendly eateries: The Goblin Ha' in Gifford and The Ship Inn in Musselburgh welcome four-legged friends.

Tips: Always check signage for seasonal restrictions on beaches and bring water for your pet on long walks.

Dog walking ideas in East Lothian

Route	Distance (miles)	Scenery	Postcode
John Muir Way	Varies	Coastal/woodland	EH39 5NY
Gullane Bents	2.5	Beach	EH31 2AQ
Aberlady Bay	3	Nature reserve	EH32 0PY
Yellowcraig Beach	1.5	Beach/woodland	EH39 5DS
Pressmennan Wood	2	Lake/forest	EH42 1TF

Dining at the park, or heading out

Holiday parks often have their own restaurants, offering convenience after a day of adventure.

Local cuisine: Fresh seafood is a must-try, with local catches featured in many menus.

Best pubs: The Waterside Bistro in Haddington is great for families, while couples might enjoy the intimate setting of The Rocks in Dunbar.

Outdoor Family Adventures

East Lothian is home to several outdoor centres like Foxlake Adventures, offering wakeboarding and ropes courses.

What's on offer: Watersports, horse riding, and golf are popular.

Price guide: Activities range from £10 for mini-golf to £40 for wakeboarding sessions. Seasonal opening times vary, so check ahead.

Nearby shopping

Name	Type	On Offer	Postcode
Forth Street Retail Park	Shopping Centre	High-street brands	EH32 9SQ
Scottish Seabird Centre	Gift Shop	Wildlife-themed gifts	EH39 4SS
Haddington Farmers' Market	Local Produce	Fresh food and crafts	EH41 3HA
Knox's Knook	Boutique	Unique gifts	EH41 4DA
Dunbar Craft Studio	Artisan Shop	Handmade crafts	EH42 1JH

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Top Parks for 2024 in East Lothian

Thurston Manor, East Lothian

Driving Distance: About 23 minutes (18.89 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 6 | Pet friendly? No

About this park: Thurston Manor is a serene family retreat nestled at the foot of the Lammermuir Hills, offering a variety of luxury lodges and cosy caravans, an indoor heated pool, gym, and live entertainment, all set within the picturesque East Lothian countryside.

For the kids - Children will be thrilled with the outdoor play area, discovery trail, and the indoor heated pool. The park's entertainment team also organises fun activities during the season, ensuring there's never a dull moment for the little ones.

What's on-site? Thurston Manor boasts an array of facilities including a bar and restaurant with takeaway options, a lounge bar with Sky Sports, free Wi-Fi, and an arcade. The indoor heated pool is perfect for a swim whatever the weather, and for those looking to stay active, there's a gym on-site. Please note that some activities may incur additional charges and the pool requires pre-booking.

What's nearby? The park is a stone's throw away from sandy beaches and coastal towns like Dunbar and North Berwick. Local attractions offer discounts for park guests, including watersports and bike hire. Tantallon Castle, a 15-minute drive away, offers a glimpse into Scotland's past with admission fees around £6 for adults and £3.60 for children.

Accommodation options: Thurston Manor provides a range of accommodation suited for families, couples, and groups. Options like the Limetree Lodge 3 Rowan View offer spacious living with a deck and patio furniture, while the Olive Caravan 2 and Sage Caravan 2 provide modern comforts in a caravan setting. Note that pets are not allowed in these accommodations.

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Riverside Country Park, Northumberland

Driving Distance: About 1 hour and 14 minutes (60.51 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 6 | Pet friendly? Yes, in selected accommodations

About this park: Riverside Country Park, set in the Northumberland countryside, offers a tranquil escape with family-friendly activities, an indoor heated pool with whirlpool bath, and seasonal entertainment, all within reach of the historic market town of Wooler.

For the kids - Youngsters can enjoy the children's play areas and the games room with arcade. The park's indoor pool is also a hit with families, providing a safe and fun environment for kids to splash around.

What's on-site? The park features the Riverside Bar & Grill for dining, a lounge bar with Sky Sports for the adults, and a launderette for convenience. The indoor heated pool provides a relaxing setting, and guests should pre-book their swim slots.

What's nearby? Within a 30-minute drive, visitors can explore Alnwick Castle, famous for its role in the Harry Potter films, with family tickets costing around £45. The stunning Northumberland National Park is also close by, offering endless outdoor adventures.

Accommodation options: Riverside Country Park offers the Fern Lodge 2 for a traditional lodge experience, and a variety of caravans such as the Ivy Caravan 2 WCF and Sage Caravan 3, with some options welcoming pets for a small additional charge.

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Landal Piperdam, Angus

Driving Distance: About 1 hour and 24 minutes (83.12 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 8 | Pet friendly? Yes, in selected accommodations

About this park: Landal Piperdam is an award-winning resort set within 650 acres of Angus countryside, offering a range of activities including golf, an indoor heated pool, spa treatments, and dining options, all within easy reach of Dundee and the Cairngorms National Park.

For the kids - The park features a soft play area, crazy golf, balance bikes, and a range of Go Active Breaks activities such as archery and water walkerz, ensuring that children of all ages have plenty to keep them entertained.

What's on-site? Guests can enjoy the indoor heated pool, sauna, steam room, and gym. Dining options include Howie’s Bar and the Room with a View Restaurant, both offering delightful menus. The park also has a shop for essentials and free Wi-Fi in reception and lounge bar areas.

What's nearby? The vibrant city of Dundee is just 8 miles away, offering cultural attractions and shopping. For nature lovers, the Cairngorms National Park is 40 miles away, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. Glamis Castle is a short drive for a historical outing, with adult tickets around £15.50.

Accommodation options: Landal Piperdam provides a variety of lodges, from the romantic Byron Premier Spa for couples to the spacious Lochside Premier Spa for larger groups. Selected lodges are pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their furry friends along for a small additional charge.

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Family Days Out In East Lothian

East Lothian, a region just a stone's throw from Edinburgh, is a goldmine for family fun. From its stunning coastline to historical attractions, there's something for everyone. And if you're staying at one of the holiday parks in East Lothian, you're perfectly placed to explore these top attractions.

North Berwick Law

• Opening Times: Open year-round
• Prices: Free
• Postcode: EH39 5PP
• Est. time required: 1-2 hours
• Nearest parking: Available at the base of the Law

North Berwick Law is a volcanic hill that dominates the landscape. It's a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views at the top are unreal. Kids will love spotting the replica whale jawbone. It's a great spot for a family picnic if you've got good weather. Early mornings or late afternoons are less crowded, and you'll get that golden light for photos.

East Links Family Park

• Opening Times: 10am - 5pm
• Prices: Adults £14.50, Children £12.50
• Postcode: EH42 1XF
• Est. time required: 3-4 hours
• Nearest parking: On-site

East Links Family Park is a farm-themed adventure park. It's a hit with younger kids thanks to the animal enclosures, go-karts, and a miniature train. They've recently added a new play area that's all the rage. To beat the queues, rock up early and head straight for the train ride. Pack a lunch, although the on-site café is decent too.

Phone number: 01368 863607 | Web: eastlinks.co.uk

Tantallon Castle

• Opening Times: 10am - 4pm
• Prices: Adults £6.00, Children £3.60
• Postcode: EH39 5PN
• Est. time required: 1-2 hours
• Nearest parking: On-site

Tantallon Castle is a semi-ruined fortress with a dramatic cliffside setting. It's a hit for families who love a bit of history and exploration. The views of Bass Rock are stunning. They've got interactive displays that keep the kids engaged. Visit on a clear day for the best experience, and don't forget your camera.

Phone number: 01620 892727 | Web: historicenvironment.scot

Myreton Motor Museum

• Opening Times: 11am - 4pm
• Prices: Adults £7.00, Children £3.00
• Postcode: EH32 0PZ
• Est. time required: 1-2 hours
• Nearest parking: On-site

Myreton Motor Museum is a treasure trove for car enthusiasts. It's packed with vintage vehicles and memorabilia. They've got some quirky exhibits that are a real talking point. It's small but well-curated, so it won't overwhelm the little ones. The staff are super knowledgeable, so don't be shy to ask questions.

Phone number: 01875 870288

Dirleton Castle

• Opening Times: 9:30am - 5:30pm
• Prices: Adults £6.00, Children £3.60
• Postcode: EH39 5ER
• Est. time required: 1-2 hours
• Nearest parking: In the village, short walk to the castle

Dirleton Castle is a medieval fortress with a picturesque garden. It's perfect for families who enjoy a mix of history and outdoor space. The gardens are immaculate, and there's plenty of room for kids to run around. They often have events and reenactments which are a blast. Check their schedule before you go.

Phone number: 01620 850330 | Web: historicenvironment.scot

Scottish Seabird Centre

• Opening Times: 10am - 5pm
• Prices: Adults £9.95, Children £5.95
• Postcode: EH39 4SS
• Est. time required: 2-3 hours
• Nearest parking: Nearby, pay and display

The Scottish Seabird Centre is an interactive wildlife experience. It's a must for nature-loving families. The centre offers boat trips to Bass Rock, and the live cams are cool for spying on puffins and gannets. It's educational without being boring. Aim for a sunny day to make the most of the boat trips.

Phone number: 01620 890202 | Web: seabird.org

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When you're planning your next family getaway, consider the variety and charm of East Lothian. It's an area that's brimming with activities that can enrich your stay at one of the holiday parks in East Lothian. Whether you're into history, nature, or just looking for a good old-fashioned family day out, East Lothian has got you covered.

FAQs

This is our first stay on a holiday park, what will it be like?

Expect a blend of relaxation and adventure. Holiday parks in East Lothian, like Drummohr Holiday Park and Seton Sands Holiday Village, offer a mix of accommodations from static caravans to luxury lodges, often with on-site amenities such as pools, play areas, and entertainment. They're family-friendly and a great way to meet new people.

What should I pack when visiting East Lothian?

Pack for all weathers – a waterproof jacket and layers are key. Don't forget your swimsuit for the pool or beach, and comfortable shoes for exploring. If you're staying at a park like Belhaven Bay Caravan and Camping Park, bring outdoor gear for their nature trails and a torch for late-night walks.

Is East Lothian a good place to visit ‘off-season’?

Absolutely! East Lothian is quieter but just as charming off-season. Many parks, like Thurston Manor Leisure Park, remain open and you can enjoy local attractions without the crowds. Plus, off-season rates are often cheaper, so it's a win-win for a budget-friendly break.

Will my hot tub be cleaned before we arrive?

Yes, if your accommodation includes a hot tub, it will be thoroughly cleaned and sanitised before you check in. Parks like Pease Bay Leisure Park pride themselves on their cleanliness standards, ensuring you can unwind without a worry.

Can we bring our pets to the holiday park?

Many holiday parks in East Lothian are pet-friendly, like Tantallon Caravan Park, which welcomes furry friends. Always check the park's pet policy before booking, as some may have restrictions on the number or size of pets allowed.

How do we book activities, and do they need to be booked in advance?

Booking activities varies by park. Some, like Seton Sands Holiday Village, have apps or online systems where you can book before arrival. Others may require booking upon check-in. Popular activities can fill up fast, so it's wise to plan ahead.

Are there any discounts available for local attractions?

Yes, holiday parks often have partnerships with local attractions. Ask at reception for any discount vouchers or deals. For example, guests at Meadowhead's Waren Caravan and Camping Park might get reduced rates at nearby castles or wildlife centres.

What dining options will we have on-site and nearby?

On-site options can range from convenience stores for self-catering to restaurants and takeaways. Parks like Seton Sands have their own dining venues. Nearby, you'll find a variety of eateries in East Lothian's towns, from cosy cafes to seafood restaurants.

Is there WiFi available, and is it free?

Most parks, including North Berwick's Holiday Parks, offer WiFi. It's often free in communal areas, but there might be a charge for in-accommodation usage. Signal strength can vary, so if staying connected is crucial, check with the park before booking.

What emergency facilities are available on-site?

Safety's a top priority. Parks are equipped with first aid kits, and staff are trained to respond to emergencies. For anything serious, local services in East Lothian are on hand. Always familiarise yourself with the park's emergency procedures on arrival.

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