I understand Scotland has beaches but when I think of visiting a beach day it is not the first thing that comes to mind. Amelia from Brass Monkey (my favorite pub here) suggested I take a 30 minute train ride to North Berwick. It is where the locals go on the weekends to have fun at the beach. I love water and being outside, plus if this is something locals partake in I am down!
North Berwick is the cutest little coastal town! Naturally I arrive starving so I walk through town looking for something yummy and vegetarian to eat. The Ship Inn has a great atmosphere and they offer The Vegan Burger. This is the BEST burger I have ever had! I don’t know where the misconception that the UK has bland food comes from because I have had nothing but delicious offerings.
Once at the beach I found a great spot to lay out and read Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Before my trip my brother gave me a towel and quoted Arthur Dent: “A towel is just about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can carry.” Today is my first time testing my towel on the sand and it is incredible! When you shake it off all the sand comes off! 10/10 recommend packing for all trips. Anyways, I am enjoying laying out and reading a good book. I see people paddle boarding, but I do not see a place to rent boards so it must be locals that brought their own. I am tempted to see if I could borrow someones, but they might think I’m crazy so I decide not to. I dip my toes in the water and it is extremely cold for this Southern Texas girl. It must be all locals that are dipping into the ocean.
In the distance is The Bass Rock, a volcanic rock which is home to the world’s largest colony of northern gannets. The landscape here is beautiful, I can see why this is a popular spot for locals. I will definitely return one day!
Even though I applied sunscreen between my hike to Arthurs Seat and my day at the beach I am sporting a slight sunburn. My family is teasing me that I am the only one they know that would get a sunburn in Scotland! I’ll wear it with pride!
Now back in Edinburgh I meet Kenny, my friend from Brass Monkey and owner of Snax Cafe, for a futbol (soccer game). Scotland is playing Georgia and from what I have heard all week, Scotland isn’t very good so it’s a big deal if we win. Scotland scores in the beginning but then the game is delayed for over an hour due to rain. Even with a delay of game the vibe in here is incredible and everyone is into the game. Kenny’s friend, Michael, joins us and OH MY is he gorgeous! Unfortunately for me he is married, whomp whomp. He does order us a round of Scotch and insists I try local scotches since I am in the birthplace of them. I am not a huge Scotch drinker but as the saying goes “When in Rome ” or in this case, Scotland. I tried Glengoyne, Auchentoshan, Laphroaig, and Aberfeldy. We cheered with our scotches as Scotland won 2-0!!!!!
What an incredible day! I am sad to leave and head to London, but also excited for the next part of this adventure!
Today’s Helpful Tips
The Ship Inn
Want to learn more about the incredible food I have had in Scotland? Check out my “Vegetarian in Scotland” post.
Cask and Barrel Pub
A great pub to catch live sports or try local pours! They have a wide array of Scotches and Beers. If you are looking to eat they serve lunch. I only drank but I am sure their lunch is great!
Pack a towel
Be like Arthur and bring a towel with you, you won’t regret it. The Only Towel You Need, Original Towel: Texas State Flag
