The Jewel To Prestongrange¶
Walk Metadata¶
Attribute |
Value |
|---|---|
Difficulty |
Low |
Distance |
9 km |
Duration |
2.5-3 hrs |
Elevation Gain |
Minimal |
Terrain |
Mostly paved (cycle routes, urban paths, coastal sections) |
Can be done by public transport |
Yes |
Getting There¶
Start: The Jewel, Edinburgh
Train: None
Parking: The Jewel
End: Prestongrange Museum, Prestonpans
Train: None
Bus: Lothian Bus 26
Parking: Prestonpans
Route¶
Section Walked |
Distance |
Date |
|---|---|---|
The Jewel to Prestongrange |
9 km |
Description¶
Start at The Jewel: We began this section at The Jewel in east Edinburgh, transitioning from the urban trails toward the coastal landscapes of the Firth of Forth. From here, the route continues through Magdalene Gardens Play Park, marking the beginning of our journey toward East Lothian.
Brunstane Railway Station and Brunstane Burn Path: We walked through the Brunstane area and onto the Brunstane Burn Path, a delightful woodland trail featuring old-growth trees. This section felt like a true woodland walk despite being within Edinburgh, with diverse bird populations and natural vegetation creating a peaceful atmosphere away from urban areas.
Musselburgh: Approaching Musselburgh, the landscape transitions to East Lothian with a sculptural feature titled “Memory and Reflection”, a striking mussel installation marking the entry to this historic town. Musselburgh is known for its fishing heritage and offers a natural break point with facilities and local character.
Fisherrow Harbour & River Esk Estuary: We continued along the charming Fisherrow Harbour with its active waterfront, then walked along the River Esk Estuary. This section is particularly rich for wildlife spotting, especially birdwatching, with the estuary full of birds including Canada geese, mute swans, and various seabirds. The mudflats and wetlands provide a unique ecosystem where river meets sea.
Musselburgh Lagoons: The route follows the coastal path with views toward the Firth of Forth, passing artistic installations including Gill White’s feather artwork. The estuary views are spectacular, particularly on clear days with distant coastal views.
Arrive at Prestongrange Museum: We finished our walk outside Prestongrange Museum.
This section beautifully transitions from Edinburgh’s urban environment to coastal landscapes, showcasing wildlife, heritage, and the natural beauty of East Lothian’s waterfront.
Notes¶
Cafes, Restaurants, Pubs, and Grocery Shops:
Musselburgh offers various cafes and restaurants
Public Toilets: Asda Jewel (minor detour), Fisherrow Lidl (short detour), Musselburgh High Street (short detour)
Attractions:
Brunstane Burn Path (woodland trail with old-growth trees)
Musselburgh sculptures (“Memory and Reflection” mussel installation, Gill White’s feather artwork)
Musselburgh Lagoons (birdwatching site with wetlands views toward Firth of Forth)
River Esk Estuary (major birdwatching site, Canada geese, mute swans, seabirds)
Prestongrange Museum (open-air museum covering Scotland’s industrial past)
Fisherrow Harbour (historic fishing port)
Wildlife: Canada geese, mute swans, seabirds, numerous woodland birds, spring wildflowers, brambles, and berries
Birdwatching: River Esk Estuary is excellent for birdwatching—check birdguides.com for recent sightings, consider bringing binoculars and the Merlin App for bird identification
Photos¶
