East Linton Travel Guide - Scotland

East Linton is a small, charming, and beautiful town located about 35 kilometres away from Edinburgh. Despite being situated so close to such a major city, East Linton has managed to avoid the distraction of major highways running through it and so maintains itself as a wonderful town with quiet streets and a distinctly rural feeling.

The town's beginnings go back several centuries, but its rise to importance happened in the 16^th century when a bridge was built over the River Tyne, making it easier and more convenient for travellers moving between London and Edinburgh. The increase in traffic meant East Linton quickly became a popular resting spot along the way. The bridge still exists today and it both historic and interesting to see. One of the best ways to soak in the bridge views and experience the true nature of East Linton is to stay at the Bridgend Hotel. This terrific accommodation is adjacent to the historic bridge and offers plenty of scenic views up and down the River Tyne.

In the 1600's, East Linton took another step forward in importance when the Preston Mill was built. Using the water power of the River Tyne, this water mill quickly became one of the busiest and most productive of its day. Preston Mill stills operates to this day; it is preserved, maintained, and operated by the National Trust of Scotland and is open for visitors on a regular schedule. More changes occurred in 1846 when the railway came to East Linton; since 1960, the trains no longer make a stop in East Linton but some still pass through the town on their main line runs.

Visitors to East Linton will notice right away just how friendly, open, and hospitable the local residents are to travellers of all kinds. The village square located in the centre of East Linton is well known for its charm, its pleasant surroundings, and the incredible atmosphere of welcome extended to all who go there. You will find several excellent pubs and restaurants in and around the village square, making it a great place to have a snack or enjoy a pint of the local ale. While you may not have heard much about East Linton before visiting there, you will certainly remember it well and plan to return there after experiencing this wonderful place.

It surprises many people to see just how close East Linton is to the bustle of Edinburgh and the development that goes along with a major nearby highway. How can such a lovely village maintain its charm with so much modern activity nearby? The answer lies in the tremendous pride local residents take in keeping their village quiet, charming, and incredibly rural in feeling. They have succeeded in making sure highways and other development occur outside of the town itself, preserving the historic streets and enchanting atmosphere of the town.

There are several interesting sights to visit in and around East Linton, most notably Hailes Castle and Parish Kirk of Traprain. Hailes Castle, originally built in the 1200's, is just outside of the town itself and is a very old but very interesting place to visit. The ruins of the castle may not look like much from a distance, but up close you can see how impressive the castle was in its prime. When you're finished at Hailes Castle, stop by the Parish Kirk of Traprain, where you will find a historic site at the edge of East Linton that dates back to the 1200's as well.

The best way to get to East Linton is via Edinburgh, from which you can hire a car, take a bus, or engage a taxi to take you from the airport to the town. Once in East Linton itself, though, most visitors find they don't need a car of their own because nearly everything they would want to see is located well within walking distance.