Musselburgh Travel Guide - Scotland

From the city centre of Edinburgh, go about six miles east and you’ll come upon the wonderful town of Musselburgh. As the largest town in East Lothian, Scotland, it is a place where holiday travellers can find plenty of interesting things to see and do.

The area in and around Musselburgh was first settled by the Romans in about 80 A.D., shortly after they invaded Scotland in general. Because of Musselburgh’s location on the coast of the Firth of Forth, it quickly became a thriving village. One of the major Roman construction projects was a bridge over the River Esk, which although rebuilt several times over the centuries remains in use today. It is sometimes called the Old Bridge as well as the Roman Bridge. Take a ride across the bridge and you’ll be able to fully appreciate the accomplishments of the Romans who originally constructed it.

Musselburgh is famous for its annual archery competition, dating back into the early to mid 1600’s. The Royal Company of Archers competes in this historic competition each year, with the grand prize being the Musselburgh Silver Arrow. It’s a prestigious prize to win, and some people even claim it is the world’s oldest sporting trophy still competed for today. Watching the archers in action is something never to be forgotten, as their accuracy and abilities are absolutely astounding.

The town has long been known as the “honest town” for reasons dating back to 1332. At that time Randolph, Earl of Moray, was the Regent of Scotland, and while travelling through Musselburgh he fell seriously ill. The people of Musselburgh went out of their way to care for him throughout what ended up being along and difficult illness. Randolph eventually succumbed to his illness, but the new Regent of Scotland was so impressed with the people of Musselburgh that he wanted to reward the townspeople for their great caring. The people, however, refused any reward, saying they had just been doing their honest duty, and it is from this humble reaction that the town earned its nickname. To this day, Musselburgh entertains an annual traditional festival during which they select an Honest Lad and Honest Lass of the year.

Since 2007, Musselburgh has been home to Queen Margaret University, one of Scotland’s leading higher education institutions. Originally located in Edinburgh, once it was completely relocated to Musselburgh the university was re-dedicated by Queen Elizabeth in a memorable ceremony. Other noteworthy places to visit in Musselburgh include St. Andrew’s High Church, Fisherrow Harbour, and the building that looks much like a castle known as the Tolbooth.

There is plenty to see and do in Musselburgh. If you are a golfer, plan to spend a day playing 18 holes at Musselburgh Links. This is the world’s oldest continuously played golf course and was once the host course for the British Open Championship. Whether you are a serious golfer, a casual duffer, or someplace in between, it’s well worth taking time to play the course and experience firsthand the historic and memorable nature of the course.

Another fun stop while in Musselburgh is the Musselburgh Racecourse. This historic horse racing course hosts both traditional flat races as well as National Hunt meetings as well. Interestingly, the infield of Musselburgh Racecourse is home to a very old nine hole golf course known as the Musselburgh Golf Course. Access to the Musselburgh Racecourse is via a special bridge over the River Esk; on race days the bridge is open to traffic, but on non-race days the bridge is closed to all traffic.

Getting to and from Musselburgh is fast and easy, as it is located only seven miles to the east of Edinburgh with the A1 Road as a major connection. It is a popular place for visitors to spend their time, thanks to Musselburgh’s pleasant seaside location and practically limitless friendly hospitality. Hire a car in Edinburgh or take one of the buses serving the area, as these are the easiest and most convenient ways to travel to Musselburgh.