West Strip

Wood, Forest in East Lothian

Scotland

West Strip

Gullane Bay at low tide Looking across from the Gullane Bents car park on a sunny August day, just after midday. — Gullane Bay at low tide Credit: M J Richardson

West Strip is a wooded area located in East Lothian, a historic county in the southeast of Scotland. Situated near the village of Gifford, West Strip is known for its picturesque woodlands and lush forests. Covering an area of approximately 200 acres, this natural wonder is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The woodlands of West Strip are primarily composed of native tree species such as oak, beech, birch, and pine. The diverse range of trees creates a rich and vibrant ecosystem, supporting an array of flora and fauna. Visitors can expect to find carpets of bluebells in the spring, while the autumn months bring a stunning display of golden hues as leaves change color.

The forested area of West Strip offers numerous walking trails and paths, allowing visitors to explore the beauty of the surroundings at their own pace. These trails cater to all levels of fitness, with options for leisurely strolls or more challenging hikes. Along the way, visitors may encounter wildlife such as deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species.

West Strip is also home to a small pond, which adds to the charm and tranquility of the area. The pond attracts a variety of waterfowl, making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers. Additionally, there are picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the woodlands.

Overall, West Strip in East Lothian offers a serene and idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether it's exploring the trails, appreciating the diverse flora and fauna, or simply enjoying a picnic by the pond, this woodland area provides a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts and those seeking solace in the great outdoors.

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West Strip Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 56.044376/-2.8097689 or Grid Reference NT4983. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Gullane Bay at low tide

Looking across from the Gullane Bents car park on a sunny August day, just after midday.

M J Richardson

Main Street Gullane

Looking towards North Berwick, with the Golf Inn and Restaurant on the left

M J Richardson

St Peter's Hall, Main Street, Gullane

M J Richardson

Gullane Post Office

And shops and flats, at the junction of Main Street and Hall Crescent.

M J Richardson

St Andrews Kirk

The ruins of the ancient kirk are almost the first thing to greet you as you enter the small town of Gullane.

Anne Burgess

Post Box at Gullane

This one is very plain, with just the letters GR and no other decorations. It is set into the sandstone wall surrounding the old kirk of St Andrew.

Anne Burgess

Main Street, Gullane

Richard Webb

East Lothian Townscape : ELCC Fingerpost at West Fenton Road, Gullane

An attractive single-finger ELCC post, unfortunately marked.

Richard West

Gullane Bents

An area of dunes which has been cleared of buckthorn. Almost all the dunes here are infested with this alien weed.

Richard Webb

Buckthorn clearance, Gullane Bents

Another small clearing won from the ever present buckthorn.

Richard Webb

Jamie's Neuk

The woodland has mostly been felled, but it appears that replanting has taken place. It used to look like this: NT4884 : Knoll, Jamie's Neuk -- 2021 The young trees starting to get established here have now all been cut down.

Richard Webb

West Links

Poor old dunes; if the golfers don't get them, the buckthorn will. Sea buckthorn is getting established on the dunes between Muirfield and the beach. -- 2016 This buckthorn was cleared in December 2016.

Richard Webb

Gullane Bents

A sandy path amongst the all conquering buckthorn.

Richard Webb

Path, Jamie's Neuk

The path passes between former conifer woods on dunes and a greenkeepers building at Muirfield.

Richard Webb

West Links

A roe deer makes a run for it across the dunes. Raids on Gullane and Dirleton's gardens have made the deer unpopular and the population is to be reduced.

Richard Webb

Eroding dunes, Gullane

Unlike the coast further west, erosion is occurring here. Dunes which were until recently advancing are now been washed away. The sea carries away the sand no doubt to be deposited elsewhere.

Richard Webb

Beach, Gullane

The coastline around Gullane is mobile and GPS readings are advised if placing photographs to any precision. Here the dunes are being eroded and the sea is advancing. Nearby deposition has pushed the shoreline out to sea. The beach is very popular, and even in November, quite busy. Strange weather helps - November 2011 was not too different to June 2011, perhaps a little drier.

Richard Webb