Preston Tower

You'll spot Preston Tower long before you reach it - a squat, formidable stone keep rising from the East Lothian countryside just outside Musselburgh. It's a proper medieval fortress, the sort of place that makes you understand why defence mattered in 14th-century Scotland.

The tower stands five storeys high with walls thick enough to stop anyone having a casual go at it. Inside, you can trace centuries of Scottish border life - stone vaults, narrow windows designed for arrows rather than light, and the kind of cramped domestic quarters that make you grateful for modern plumbing. The views across the landscape from the top are genuinely worth the climb, though there are stairs that'll test your knees.

It's best suited to history enthusiasts and anyone interested in medieval military architecture. Kids will enjoy the climb and the general fortress vibe, but they won't find interactive exhibits or much hand-holding. Allow 45 minutes to an hour here, more if you're really into the period detail.

Stay at Drummohr Camping & Glamping Site just 1.2 miles away and you're perfectly placed for exploring this part of East Lothian. The tower works well as a morning or late afternoon stop before heading to Haven Seton Sands Holiday Village for a seaside element to your trip. It's genuinely worth the detour if you're interested in Scottish heritage, though casual visitors might find it a bit one-note.