Musselburgh is a charming and historic coastal town, located in the East Lothian district of Scotland. The town was once the capital of the eastern part of the county and is steeped in history, with its old fishing port, the ruins of St. Winnoc’s Church, and a range of beautiful Georgian buildings. The town centre is brimming with places to eat, drink and shop, and many visitors come to explore the stunning views along the coastline.
1. Musselburgh parks and places for a walk on a first date
Fancy a romantic walk with your date? Musselburgh is surrounded by picturesque parks and natural beauty spots. Take a walk around Loretto School which dates back to 1827 and is set in rolling estate grounds, featuring a ‘Theatre Under the Stars’, a 7-acre pond, and an arboretum. You can also explore the banks of the River Esk, in Pinkie Park, which offers a tranquil spot for a picnic or a stroll. Alternatively, head to Stoneyhill Woodlands, a gorgeous patch of ancient semi-natural woodland, or the restored Dalkeith Country Park, which is fringed by 1000 acres of parkland.
2. Places for a coffee date in Musselburgh
Musselburgh has plenty of great places to take your date for a cup of coffee. Enjoy a morning of people watching at the superbly designed Playfair Cafe Bar & Restaurant, with its beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows and wood-fired pizza oven. Or, sip an artisan coffee at Affogato, which boasts an eclectic menu of home-baked cakes, freshly-squeezed juices, flatbreads and organic coffee. Avocado Cafe is another excellent spot, serving up delicious breakfasts and healthy lunches, alongside sweet treats and a variety of speciality coffees.
3. Musselburgh galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
From galleries and museums to exhibitions and live performances, Musselburgh has plenty of cultural attractions to explore. Take a tour around Musselburgh Arts Centre, which offers a selection of visual art and live works, including theatre, dance and music events. Meanwhile, Musselburgh Museum details the town’s fascinating history from its trading links to the Herring Fishing industry, or wander through the galleries at the Stables Gallery. Alternatively, spend the afternoon at the Whitekirk Contemporary Art Gallery, which showcases works by local and international artists.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Musselburgh
Musselburgh is home to a number of live music venues and entertainment spaces, perfect for a relaxed first date. Get your groove on at the MacArts Centre, which hosts live music, DJs, theatre and comedy nights. There’s also the Musselburgh Brass Band Concerts, held at the MacArts Centre during the summer months, or check out local talent at The Big Session at the Whitekirk pub. Lastly, don’t miss the Glasgowbury music festival, which takes place in the summer and showcases an array of local and international talent.
5. Musselburgh pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
For a food and drinks date, Musselburgh is home to a variety of pubs, bars, and restaurants. Enjoy the cosy atmosphere at The East Coast, which serves up hearty pub grub alongside a great selection of craft beers, ales, and whiskies. Or, head to the trendy Queen's Bar, where you can choose from a range of craft beers, ciders, gins, and wines. For something a bit special, dine al fresco at The White Horse, which serves up delicious grilled dishes, as well as a range of Scottish beers and gins.
6. Other date ideas to try in Musselburgh
If you’re looking for something a little different for your first date, Musselburgh has plenty of activities to keep your date entertained. Get your adrenaline pumping at the Musselburgh Racecourse, take a wild hike over the cliffs at the Gut of Forth or head to the Musselburgh Links Driving Range for a game of golf. If you’re feeling daring, why not try your hand at a spot of coasteering or take a horse-drawn carriage ride. Or, head to one of the many festivals that take place throughout the year, such as the Musselburgh Festival or the Regatta.
