St Andrews High Church

The walk into Musselburgh's old town rewards you with a proper kirk that's been standing since medieval times, though what you see now is largely 17th-century stonework. St Andrews High Church sits just off the main drag, and stepping inside feels like interrupting something - the kind of quiet that only centuries-old stone can manage.

It's the sort of place history buffs will linger over, tracing fingers along monument plaques and squinting at faded inscriptions. The church interior has real character without being showy about it. You're looking at genuine ecclesiastical architecture, not a tourist trap dressed up in heritage clothing. Kids will either be fascinated by the stories carved into walls or restless within five minutes - depends entirely on the child.

Musselburgh itself is worth a proper nose around afterwards. The High Street has decent enough pubs and the river walk takes you away from the town centre bustle entirely. If you're staying at Haven Seton Sands just up the coast, this makes for an easy afternoon detour - about twenty minutes' drive gets you here, maybe an hour if you're the type who reads every plaque.

There's no charge to get in, and it's open during reasonable daylight hours. Winter light gets moody here. Come on a grey afternoon and you'll understand why Scottish kirks feel the way they do. Don't expect lengthy opening hours or tea rooms - this is a working church, not a heritage attraction desperate for your pound coins.