Gullane Bents

The wide sandy bay at Gullane is one of the most popular beaches in the east of Scotland, attracting locals, day visitors and holiday-makers alike, particularly during the summer months.

The majority of the land here is in private ownership, but has been managed by East Lothian Council under a lease agreement since 1931. A programme of reconstruction of the fore-dune was begun in the 1960's resulting in the 'man made' landscape that can be seen today. Marram and sea lyme grasses were planted to help hold the sand together. Sea buckthorn was also planted for that purpose, and has become abundant, its orange berries and thin grey-green leaves a common feature of this site.

In some areas the sea buckthorn has become so abundant, that a programmed system of removal is in operation. It does, however, have conservation value, providing a habitat for many breeding birds, as well as shelter for foxes, small mammals and a small population of roe deer.

In winter, the bushes are alive with large flocks of fieldfare, a winter visiting thrush that feeds on the sea buckthorn berries. The fore-dune provides shelter from sea winds for both visitors and wildlife, and the sandy, nutrient poor soil allows a number of species, such as viper's bugloss, to grow that would be unable to compete with more vigorous, nutrient-loving species.

Visitor Information

• Gullane Bents Car Park is signposted from the A198 coast road at the west end of Gullane village.
  
  
• There is a car parking charge from April to September.
  
  
• Buses from Edinburgh and North Berwick stop at Gullane. For details contact Traveline on 0800 23 23 23.
  
  
• Seasonal toilet facilities, including disabled toilets, are available on-site.
  
  
• A tarmac path leads to a viewing platform overlooking the beach, which is accessible to wheelchair users. A steep tarmac path leads down to the beach.