North Berwick is a charming coastal town set on an expansive sandy beach and much loved by both locals and visitors for its beautiful setting, bustling town centre and enviable selection of nearby golf courses. With around 8,000 residents, the small town has a laid-back, rural feel while still boasting a great selection of shops, restaurants and cafes which cater to locals and tourists alike.
The jewel in North Berwick’s crown is its beautiful sandy beach which is popular with swimmers, rowers, sailors and beachcombers. The beach is well-maintained with plenty of space for games and picnics, making it a popular destination for families with children, especially in summer. The surrounding area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, puffins, and on the rare occasion Dolphins.
Not far from the beach, there are tennis courts, putting greens and The Lodge Grounds which hosts a play park, aviary, beautifully maintained gardens and plenty of green space for all to enjoy. The North Berwick Law also provides a picturesque walk with spectacular 360-degree views and is also home to a number of wild Exmoor ponies.
Situated within the heart of Scotland’s Golf Coast, North Berwick is hugely popular with golfers and the town is home to two well-regarded courses: the West Links and the Glen Course. A traditional links course, the West Links has hosted many prestigious tournaments over the years. The Glen offers a challenging course with spectacular panoramic views.
Just along the coast is the famous Renaissance course, current hosts of the Scottish Open, as well as Muirfield, Gullane and Archerfield courses – a golfers’ dream line-up.
If you’re not a golfer, you’ll be pleased to know that North Berwick has plenty more to offer. It’s home to an excellent range of local shops, restaurants, and cafes and a great selection of independent stores from artisanal food and drink to handmade crafts and gifts. We love our neighbours at Time & Tide for everything interiors, Paper Flower for jewellery and gifts, and Rock & Bird for paints, paper and any creative tool an artist could want.
Foodies are also spoilt for choice in the town, with an enviable range of restaurants serving everything from traditional Scottish cuisine to international dishes. On a sunny day, head to the beer garden at No12 Hotel & Bistro, where you can enjoy delicious food and drink alfresco. For family-friendly dining, Zitto Italian Wine Bar has an extensive menu with something for everyone, from mouth-watering pizzas and pasta to a variety of smaller tapas dishes.
There are also several cafes and tearooms offering light meals and drinks throughout the day. Bostock bakery, just across from Coulters office on the high street, is a firm favourite for its delicious bread and pastries, and Steampunk Coffee at Kirk Ports for a strong coffee and brilliant live music.
Despite its small size, North Berwick has a thriving arts and culture scene. The town has a number of galleries and exhibitions showcasing the work of local artists, as well as a number of festivals and events throughout the year including Fringe By The Sea, the North Berwick Food and Drink Festival, a Literary Festival, and the much-loved North Berwick Highland Games.
Overall, North Berwick is a delightful place to live and visit, with a stunning natural setting, rich history and culture, and a range of activities and amenities. Whether you’re interested in sports, the arts, or just soaking up the beauty of the Scottish coast, North Berwick has something to offer everyone and it’s no wonder buyers have been flocking to the town.
Thinking about buying or selling in North Berwick? Our team of local experts based in our East Lothian office would be delighted to help.
Call us on 0162 067 1837 or email enquiries@coultersproperty.co.uk.
