Discover 30 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in Gullane.
The highest-rated places we recommend first — start here.
Yellowcraig Beach offers families a perfect blend of sandy shores, fascinating rock pools teeming with marine life, and gentle nature trails through stunning coastal dunes. The sheltered beach and calm waters make it ideal for sandcastle building, paddling, and exploring tide pools, while the surrounding woodland paths provide adventure for little explorers who need a break from the sand.
Gullane Hill offers families a perfect combination of gentle adventure and breathtaking coastal scenery without any admission fees. The easy walking trails make it accessible for little legs, while the wide open grassy areas provide plenty of space for kids to run freely, fly kites, and enjoy picnics with stunning views over the Firth of Forth and surrounding coastline.
📚 LibraryThis charming community library in the coastal village of Gullane provides a welcoming space for young families to explore Scottish children's literature and participate in story time sessions. Located in a primary school setting, it offers a familiar, child-centered environment where little ones can discover books, engage with educational programs, and connect with local families in East Lothian.
🧗 AdventureNorth Berwick Law is a 613-foot extinct volcanic hill offering families a rewarding climb with spectacular 360-degree views of the Scottish coastline, Edinburgh, and the Firth of Forth. The trail is manageable for active families, and kids will love spotting the famous whale jawbone arch at the summit while enjoying the adventure playground at the base before or after the hike.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
⭐ ActivityGullane Beach is a stunning sandy stretch along Scotland's east coast, perfect for families seeking a classic beach day with proper facilities. The wide, clean sands are ideal for castle building, paddling in the shallows, and beachcombing, while lifeguard coverage during summer months provides peace of mind for parents. With its accessible location just 30 minutes from Edinburgh, it's a wonderful escape for families wanting traditional seaside fun.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
⭐ ActivityYellowcraig Beach offers two miles of pristine sandy coastline perfect for building sandcastles, splashing in shallow waters, and exploring fascinating rock pools teeming with crabs and sea creatures. The gentle dunes provide natural windbreaks for picnics, while the surrounding coastal trails offer easy family-friendly walks with stunning views across the Firth of Forth to islands beyond.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🌿 NatureThe Law is an ancient volcanic hill offering families an accessible outdoor adventure with gentle trails suitable for little legs. This 187-meter peak rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views across the Firth of Forth, nearby beaches, and the Scottish countryside, making it an exciting first hill climb for budding young explorers.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
West Beach is a stunning golden sandy beach with gentle, shallow waters that make it perfect for families with young children. The safe paddling conditions and ample space for sandcastle building have earned it a perfect 5-star rating from families. Located in the charming Victorian seaside town of North Berwick, it offers classic beach fun with spectacular views across the Firth of Forth.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
⚽ SportsGullane Golf Club provides an exceptional introduction to golf for children in the stunning Scottish countryside, with dedicated family-friendly lessons and beginner courses designed specifically for young players. This historic club welcomes families with open arms, offering professional instruction in a relaxed, non-intimidating atmosphere that makes learning golf fun for kids while parents enjoy one of Scotland's most beautiful coastal settings.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
La Barantine Victoria is a beloved local ice cream shop offering homemade gelato and traditional ice cream in a delightful array of flavours. Perfect for a sweet treat after exploring Edinburgh's historic streets or as a special dessert stop, this family-friendly spot delivers quality ice cream in a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a hit with both kids and parents.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🛝 PlaygroundLodge Grounds is a well-maintained community playground in the heart of North Berwick, featuring modern play equipment perfect for burning off energy after exploring this charming Scottish seaside town. With its excellent rating and central location, it's a convenient stop for families traveling through East Lothian, offering swings, slides, and climbing structures that appeal to a range of ages.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🛝 PlaygroundThis well-maintained community playground in the charming coastal village of Gullane offers modern play equipment suitable for various ages, all within a safe, picturesque Scottish village setting. The playground features swings, slides, and climbing structures that keep children entertained while parents enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this East Lothian gem, just 30 minutes from Edinburgh.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
North Berwick Library is a welcoming community hub perfect for families traveling through Scotland's charming East Lothian coast. This friendly local library offers regular children's story times, engaging activity programs, and a dedicated kids play area stocked with books, toys, and learning resources. It's an ideal rainy day retreat or a quiet respite where little ones can enjoy Scottish stories while parents relax in comfortable surroundings.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
Gullane Library is a welcoming community hub in this charming Scottish coastal village, offering a dedicated children's section with story times and educational programs perfect for young families. With an impressive 4.8-star rating, this cozy library provides a quiet refuge on rainy days and a wonderful opportunity for kids to explore Scottish children's literature and connect with local families.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
🍦 Ice CreamAlanda's Gelateria is a charming local ice cream parlor in the heart of North Berwick, serving creamy homemade gelato and milkshakes that kids absolutely adore. The welcoming atmosphere and central location make it the perfect treat stop after exploring the beach or town, with generous scoops and a variety of flavors that cater to even the pickiest young eaters.
Tap for hours, tips & photos →
☕ CafeThe Scottish Seabird Centre offers an unforgettable wildlife experience where kids can control live cameras to zoom in on puffins, gannets, and seals on nearby islands. Interactive exhibits, touch screens, and seasonal boat trips to Bass Rock (home to the world's largest gannet colony) make this a hands-on marine adventure that captivates young naturalists and curious minds alike.
⭐ ActivityTantallon Castle offers families a thrilling journey into medieval Scotland with its dramatic clifftop location overlooking the North Sea. Kids will love exploring the ruined towers, scrambling over ancient stonework, and imagining life as knights and princesses while parents enjoy the breathtaking coastal views and interactive displays in the visitor centre.
🛝 PlaygroundWhitekirk Hill offers a fantastic indoor play experience in the scenic Scottish countryside near North Berwick. This well-equipped soft play facility keeps kids entertained with slides, ball pits, and climbing structures, while parents can relax in the on-site cafe with refreshments and enjoy the peaceful rural setting.
No upcoming events yet
We're building our events calendar for Gullane. Check back soon!