Aberlady in Scotland
Located by the Firth of Forth in East Lothian, Scotland, the charming historic village of Aberlady has a sense of tranquility about it which makes it very appealing to travelers wanting to take a break from the hustle and bustle of modern city living. Designated as Britain’s first Local Nature Reserve in 1952, Aberlady Bay is not only scenic, but is considered to be significant for its botanical, ornithological and geomorphic aspects, making its preservation of utmost importance and a responsibility the community takes seriously.
The Scottish Ornithologist’s Club has its headquarters in Aberlady, and birding enthusiasts can expect plenty of support as the club plays a pivotal role in encouraging an interest in this fascinating pastime. At dusk in the winter months, up to 15,000 Pink-footed Geese fly into the area from a day’s foraging in the surrounding farmland. In addition to this thrilling spectacle, bird-watchers in winter will get to see several species of wader and duck either roost or feed in the area. Spring brings the summer migrants and the beginning of the breeding season. The other seasons may be a little quieter from a birding point of view, but there is always something worth seeing in the Aberlady Bay Local Nature Reserve.
Other points of interest in the vicinity include the Myreton Motor Museum and a series of historic houses open to the public. The 18th century Gosford House has undergone a series of changes since the first foundations were laid and visitors can enjoy a tour of the house and the beautifully manicured gardens in the summer months. Just to the east of Aberlady in a magnificent wooded estate is the house of Luffness, parts of which date back to the turn of the 11th and 12th centuries. The house features a walled fruit garden which was built by French prisoners during the Napoleonic wars and currently bears a bounty of figs, apricots and peaches, while the extensive grounds are home to a variety of fauna, including the delicately beautiful roe deer.
The Aberlady Golf Club has a long and interesting history, with the earliest course at Musselburgh having the distinction of being where Mary Queen of Scots played a game in 1567. There may not be royalty teeing off at the golf club, but golfers are assured of a challenging game in scenic surroundings, ending off with an analysis of the game at the “19th hole” in one of the village hotels.
There is an undeniable sense of community in Aberlady with many families having lived here for generations. Visitors to this charming village in Scotland will find that they are warmly welcomed and the locals will gladly share the beauty of the village they have the good fortune of calling home.
