Aberlady Bay

Bay in East Lothian

Scotland

Aberlady Bay

Aberlady Bay is a picturesque bay located on the east coast of Scotland, in East Lothian. Spanning approximately 8 kilometers in length, the bay is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. It is situated just to the east of the village of Aberlady, which gives the bay its name.

The bay is characterized by its expansive sandy beaches and dunes, which provide a habitat for various plant species. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, with the bay being designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Local Nature Reserve. The diverse habitats found in Aberlady Bay attract a wide range of bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. It is estimated that over 20,000 birds visit the bay each year, including wading birds, geese, and ducks.

Aside from its natural beauty, Aberlady Bay also holds historical significance. The remains of an ancient crannog, a type of artificial island, can be found at low tide. These remnants serve as evidence of human activity in the area dating back to the Iron Age.

The bay is easily accessible, with a car park and visitor center located nearby. Visitors can enjoy walks along the beach, observe the wildlife, or simply take in the tranquil surroundings. Aberlady Bay is a hidden gem in East Lothian, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and historical interest.

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Aberlady Bay Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.012856/-2.8794259 or Grid Reference NT4580. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Aberlady Bay from the coastal road

The lane on the left leads to Kilspindie Golf Club, and the Fife coast is in view across the Firth of Forth.

Jim Barton

Seafront houses, Aberlady

Seen from the road to Kilspindie Golf Club.

Jim Barton

Information board, the Port of Aberlady

Aberlady was a port in the 16th century, with a last known shipment in 1875. Since then the bay has silted up, precluding its use as a port, but leaving an area of tidal sands that attracts wading birds. The artist’s impression shows the port as it would have looked c. 1560. The first paragraph of smaller print reads: "The construction of a harbour at Aberlady was commissioned in 1535. The port building and custom house – ‘the Town of Haddington’s House’ – was commissioned one year later. Timber, tanning oil, linseed cake and guano were primary imports while large amounts of wool, hides and grain were exported."

Jim Barton

Aberlady Bay

Viewed from Kilspindie golf course with seals resting on a stretch of Gullane Sands before the tide comes in.

Walter Baxter

Kilspindie Golf Course

Golfers are approaching the green on the 4th hole called The Target at Craigielaw Point. A shelter is on the right beside the 5th tee. This was viewed from Green Craig in early June.

Walter Baxter

The 5th tee at Kilspindie Golf Course

This par 4 hole is called The Law. The tee is at the edge of the dunes at Craigielaw Point.

Walter Baxter

Golfers on the 5th tee at Kilspindie Golf Course

The tee is at the edge of the dunes at Craigielaw Point and this was taken from the beach at Gosford Bay. For a golfer’s view on the tee down the fairway, see NT4480 : The 5th tee at Kilspindie Golf Course.

Walter Baxter