The Longniddry Haddington Railway Walkway

A disused railway line converted into a walking trail - that's the Longniddry Haddington Railway Walkway in a nutshell, and it's genuinely one of those finds that justifies a morning out without feeling like a wasted trip. The path follows the old track bed through East Lothian's gentle countryside, giving you proper walking without the effort of scrambling up hills. You're essentially following a flat, well-drained route that would have carried passengers and freight decades ago, and the railway heritage clings to the place still - old embankments, the occasional bridge, stretches where you can almost imagine the sound of the steam engine.

Walkers will get the most from this. It's roughly seven miles end to end if you fancy the full stretch, though you can dip in and out depending on your legs and time. The woodland sections are decent, especially in spring when the light filters through properly, and it connects the two towns rather neatly so you could walk one way and catch a bus back if you're not bothered with the return journey. Not much elevation gain means it suits families with younger children who aren't ready for moorland hikes, though older kids might find it a touch samey after the first couple of miles.

If you're staying at Haven Seton Sands Holiday Village just down the road, this sits nicely as a morning activity before heading to the beach or something livelier. Bring decent shoes - it can get muddy after rain - and expect an hour and a half for a comfortable amble. No facilities along the way, so pack water.