Where to stay
Whether you're planning a city break in Scotland's capital or a few days exploring Scotland's Golf Coast, there are plenty of ways to turn the wedding into a long weekend.
Below you'll find an overview of the towns along the coast, along with information on travelling to North Berwick on the wedding day.
As East Lothian is a popular golfing destination, many Airbnb properties cater to golf holidays and therefore have minimum stays of around five nights. If you're only planning to stay for the wedding weekend, don't be surprised if your options are a little more limited.
If you're unsure where to stay, or looking for ideas on how to make the most of your trip to Scotland, just get in touch. We'd be more than happy to share our recommendations.
North Berwick
If you want to stay within walking distance of the venue, North Berwick is the place to be. With its beaches, harbour, independent shops, cafés and restaurants, there's plenty to see and do before and after the wedding. It's a lovely town to explore at your own pace.
Here are a few places worth looking at:
The Marine – Closest to the bar.
Not the cheapest option, but for those of you wanting to keep the party going until you can barely stumble back to your room, why not stay at the venue itself?
Use the code BEAR27 to your booking to get slightly discounted rates.
The Nether Abbey – Fingers crossed it reopens in time.
New ownership, and not currently open for booking. However, a great option if they get back online.
No. 26 – Ideal if you prefer boutique over ballroom.
At the end of the High Street, a small hotel sitting above a restaurant. Just a two-minute walk to the Scottish Seabird Centre, if that’s what you’re into…
Gullane
Five miles down the road from North Berwick you’ll find the groom's parents' hometown. It's also home to several of Scotland's most famous golf courses, but if you’re not keen on ripping a 2-iron into the prevailing westerly wind, Gullane could still be the town for you.
Alongside its famous fairways, you'll find a beautiful beach, scenic walks, great cafés, well-stocked pubs and excellent restaurants.
Regular buses run between Gullane and North Berwick, making it easy to get to and from the wedding.
Some places to check out:
The Bonnie Badger – The proposal... sort of.
Staple pub for the bride and groom whenever we're in Scotland. Sort of where the proposal happened. Assuming it's open next summer, it's well worth a look.
The Mallard Hotel – Golf without the green fees.
A proper British hotel next to the Children’s Course. If you've had a few too many the night before, it's probably a more forgiving challenge than Gullane No. 1.
Whatton Cottage – Closest to the beach.
We've never been, but if your holiday plans involve more beach than birdies, this could be the one for you.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is the perfect choice if you'd like to combine the wedding with a city break. Scotland's capital is easy to explore on foot and offers a mix of history, culture, great food and shopping, making it an ideal place to spend a few extra days. If you've never visited before, make time for one of the city's famous underground ghost tours. They're excellent—provided you remain conscious for the duration.
Travelling to the wedding is easy. Direct trains run from Edinburgh Waverley to North Berwick approximately every hour, with a journey time of around 30 minutes. The last train back to Edinburgh leaves at around 11pm, so if you're planning to stay until the end of the celebrations, we'd recommend arranging a taxi back.
Honourable Mentions
Dirleton
A small village wedged between Gullane and North Berwick with a couple of small hotels, a castle, and nothing else.
It’s the closest option to North Berwick without being North Berwick. If you miss the last bus back from the wedding, walking home is always an option.
Aberlady
If the bright lights of Gullane aren't quite your thing, Aberlady might be the place for you.
This charming coastal village sits beside the beautiful Aberlady Bay Nature Reserve and is known for its peaceful atmosphere, scenic walks and welcoming pubs. It's only a short bus ride from North Berwick, making it an easy and relaxing place to stay.
Craigielaw
Honestly, it’s just a golf course outside Aberlady. But there might be some good accommodation deals to be had. Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it.
Musselburgh
Musselburgh is a good option if you'd like to stay a little closer to Edinburgh without being too far from the wedding. The town has plenty of hotels, pubs and restaurants, along with regular trains and buses to North Berwick.
It's also home to Musselburgh Racecourse, one of the oldest in the country, so if you fancy funding the taxi home with a lucky bet, you'll be in the right place.