Hidden Toun Park

The woodland paths at Hidden Toun Park wind through what feels like proper countryside, even though you're only minutes from the East Lothian coast. This nature reserve sprawls across mixed woodland and open ground where locals come to spot birds and walk off a heavy lunch. The trails are gentle enough for families but genuinely rewarding if you're into spotting woodpeckers or watching for roe deer among the trees.

It's a low-key affair - no visitor centre, no gift shop, just paths that actually feel like they belong to the landscape rather than being imposed on it. You can do a quick thirty-minute amble or settle in for a couple of hours depending on how seriously you want to birdwatch. Spring and early autumn are the best times, when migrating species pass through and the woodland isn't suffocating with midges.

If you're staying at Haven Seton Sands Holiday Village just down the road, this is the sort of place that breaks up beach days nicely. Kids who've had enough of sand will actually engage here - there's something about a proper forest that holds their attention in a way manicured parks don't. The paths are mostly dry underfoot but wellies aren't a bad shout after rain. Check locally about current access before you go, as these reserves sometimes close for management work.