North Berwick

Friday, midday

Check into the cosy No.12

Hotel (doubles from £100, no12hotelandbistro.co.uk) right in the heart of the old spa resort town of North Berwick.

1.30pm

Tuck into sweet North Berwick lobster at the Rocketeer. Make sure to book a table gazing out over the Firth of Forth and order the local Thistly Cross cider, which is an ideal accompaniment.

3pm

Scotland is famous globally for its abundant seabirds. Find out more at the Scottish Seabird Centre. The highlights are the live action cameras of the world’s largest gannetry on Bass Rock which is located just offshore.

4.30pm

Enjoy a coffee in the Scottish Seabird Centre’s café. Their terrace opens up sweeping views of Bass Rock and the Firth of Forth.

7pm

Welcoming Italian Cucina Amore do a decent spaghetti vongole and house white wine to go along with their gentle patter.

Saturday, 8am

It’s up early to tackle a stretch of the John Muir Way out west in search of Yellowcraigs Beach and the isle of Fidra, said to be Stevenson’s inspiration for Treasure Island. It is indeed an inspirational place. Wander back along the sands to appreciate North Berwick’s dramatic setting.

1.30pm

Reward yourself with a lemon sole supper at the North Berwick Fry and enjoy it with the squawking seagulls on a bench down by the Forth.

2.30pm

North Berwick is awash with wee independent shops so do your bit as you ease your retail conscience, picking up the sort of unique seaside goodies you just cannot buy elsewhere.

7pm

Local lobster is back on the menu at the Nether Abbey Hotel. Treat yourself to an outstanding surf and turf, with fillet topped with the sweet East Coast lobster.

Sunday, 9am

Savour proper smoked salmon and scrambled eggs on toast for breakfast at the hotel before easing out on to the beaches, with two arcs of sand to choose from.

Scotrail (www.scotrail.co.uk) runs regular trains from stations including Edinburgh. For further tourist information see www.visitscotland. com