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Dirleton
Dirleton is a small village around 22 miles northeast of Edinburgh, most notable for the romantic ruins of Dirleton Castle. It is a pretty conservation village with a large village green. Located on the magnificent East Lothian coastline, it is also close to beautiful beaches such as Gullane and Yellowcraigs. Buses run to Dirleton from Edinburgh and the journey takes around 45 minutes, making for a fantastic day trip during your stay with us at Parliament House Hotel!
Dirleton Castle
The village is known for its castle, the oldest parts of which date from the 13th century. It served as a fortified residence to noble families for 400 years, before falling into ruin. New owners bought the estate in the 1660s and built a new mansion house (Archerfield House), while continuing to maintain the grounds. In 1923, the castle ruins and gardens were handed to the state and now form a popular visitor attraction, run by Historic Environment Scotland.
Today, you can explore the ruins of this fascinating medieval castle and its extensive grounds. The gardens originally date from the 16th century and there is much to see. They once held the record for the world’s longest herbaceous border! See visitor information.
‘Well worth a visit. The gardens surrounding the castle are lovely and the Castle itself is very interesting. Lots of rooms to explore and a lovely Doocot. Direlton is also a lovely village.’
– Dirleton Castle Tripadvisor Review
Archerfield Walled Garden
Set within the estate of Archerfield House, this 18th-century walled garden and surrounding grounds is a wonderful place to visit for peaceful walks, eating and drinking in the Garden Café and shopping in the Food Market and Garden Shop. Find out more.
East Lothian beaches
Dirleton is situated on the spectacular East Lothian coastline, between the towns of North Berwick and Gullane. There are many beautiful, sandy beaches to enjoy in this area. Gullane Bents and Yellowcraigs Beach are two of our favourites! Ideal for beach walks on the wide sands and sunbathing and paddling in the summer.
