Often described as ‘Scotland’s prettiest village’, Dirleton is an exceptionally picturesque hamlet with a village green bordered by neat rows of cottages and a romantic castle, the oldest part of which dates back to the 13^th Century when it was built by the De Vaux family. The village also benefits from being within walking distance (approx one mile) from Yellowcraigs beach, one of the most beautiful stretches of beach in East Lothian, and just 20 miles from Edinburgh, which makes it an extremely attractive and desirable lifestyle location for commuters.

The history, wildlife, spectacular scenery and amenities within the local area combine to make Dirleton a popular place for day visitors and tourists, who can enjoy the hospitality and atmosphere of places like the Open Arms Hotel. Located across from the ruins of Dirleton Castle, it offers good food and fine wines all year round, served either in the courtyard, or in winter, in cosy lounges with log fires.

Overlooking the village green is another excellent eaterie and place to stay. Completely restored, the family-run Castle Inn is a historic 19^th Century coaching inn renowned for both hospitality and food, particularly since it won the ‘Best Bistro Meal in East Lothian’ award in 2009.

Dirleton Gallery and Café, on Manse Road, is another favourite with visitors and locals alike, a venue that offers retail therapy – original paintings, limited edition prints, jewellery, crafts, hand-blown glass, ceramics, pottery, knitwear, antiques and more, while catering for lunches, speciality teas, coffees, wine and beer.

The castle, which is now in the care of Historic Scotland, is a major attraction. Open daily, visitors are drawn by spectacular gardens first laid out in the 16^th Century that include a doocot, 1920s Arts and Crafts herbaceous borders – including the world’s longest herbaceous border as verified by Guiness Book of Records - and a re-created Victorian garden. There’s also a souvenir shop and car park. This historic venue is a truly magical wedding venue, with a small chapel, barrel vaults and an open air Great Hall in the heart of the castle, the latter with a grand dias overlooking the gardens.

At the north end of the village green, on the John Muir Way, stands Dirleton Kirk. Built in 1612 to replace the 12^th Century Kirk in nearby Gullane, this landmark building has interesting examples of stained glass and a cross-aisle, added in 1650, that is believed to have been the first example of neoclassical style in Scotland.

East Lothian is renowned as the home of golf – and with five championship golf courses all within a short drive, it’s no wonder the area is famously known as the ‘Golf Coast’. Founded in 1854, Dirleton Castle Golf Club in Gullane is a parkland course that began as a local club and has retained its local character.

As a base, Dirleton excels with excellent hotels in and around the village in addition to B&B and self-catering accommodation. The village is also convenient for exploring the region generally – Gullane and North Berwick are both only two miles away, as is the National Museum of Flight, another major attraction for people of all ages. Other options include the Scottish Archery Centre, Myreton Motor Museum, and of course, Yellowcraigs beach, which overlooks the basalt island of Fidra.