Season: summer
A bright morning at the weekend had brought locals and visitors alike down to this beautiful beach. Gullane Bents is dog friendly and has a fine rural backdrop, interlaced with paths for walkers. There’s a pleasing arc to the beach at any tide and a fine walk round to Yellowcraig, if you are feeling energetic. On this occasion the gentle lapping of the waves from the Firth of Forth provided adequate accompaniment, so it was down to the water for a paddle. This is a wonderful setting, next to a well-heeled and pleasant village.
What the beach means to Virginia.
A fine weekend morning at Gullane Bents.
Season: spring
This beach is located close to the celebrated Muirfield Golf Course, but was frequented by Sunday walkers on this occasion. As the tide fell away, the arc of the beach became pronounced, inviting a walk along the dunes, east towards Yellowcraig and onwards to North Berwick. The John Muir Way is a highlight at any time, but I was struck by the rich golden colour of the sand here, with razor clam shells scattered along the strand line. I have visited many times, but each welcome is different in mood and temperament, such is the wonder of the beach.
What the beach means to friends Ailsa, Mhairi and Kirsteen.
An ebb tide at Gullane Bents.
Season: spring
Bright sunshine coincided with the start of spring for this visit. The tide was almost in and walkers were enjoying fine views out to the Firth of Forth. The descent from the car park is quite theatrical, with the beach arcing around the edge of the bay and the approach path lined with sea buckthorn, bright orange when in bloom.
The beach as an ever-changing place for Rhona and Liz.
Season: summer
The tide was rising at Gullane for this summer visit. Blue skies, sunshine and warm weather had attracted walkers, people watchers and swimmers to the beach. This beach gradually reveals itself as you approach though the grasses and dunes. The resulting scene might be from a child’s picture book.
A summer scene at Gullane beach.
Season: winter
Gullane has an expansive, sandy beach, with fine views of the Firth of Forth. In the summer it’s popular with families for sunbathing, walking, kite flying, picnics, windsurfing and canoeing. In terms of natural attractions, the sea buckthorn and the extensive dune system provide a haven for small birds. Toilets and car parking are to hand. Longniddry is less than a mile away, with its shops, restaurant and train station.
The sights and sounds of the beach.
The spiritual appeal of the beach for Sandra.
A view from the dunes at Gullane Bents.
