The Porty Light Box

There's a small contemporary art space tucked into Musselburgh's waterfront that punches well above its weight. The Porty Light Box is what happens when a community decides to take its cultural life seriously - a gallery run on passion rather than institutional pomposity.

Inside, you'll find rotating exhibitions of Scottish and international work, ranging from painting and photography to installation pieces. It's intimate enough that you won't feel like you're trudging through endless rooms, but substantial enough to genuinely surprise you. The space itself is part of the appeal - working with the light coming through those windows rather than fighting it.

This is proper territory for art types and anyone who likes to stumble across interesting work without the stuffiness of a major city gallery. It's not going to keep younger kids entertained for hours, but adults who enjoy contemporary practice will find it refreshing. Admission seems to be free, which is always a bonus, though it's worth checking ahead as details can be sparse online.

Musselburgh itself is a working harbour town with actual history - not a prettified version of one. Combine a visit here with a walk along the Esk or a pint at one of the decent pubs nearby. If you're staying at Drummohr Camping and Glamping Site just outside town, it's close enough for an afternoon outing without feeling like a trek. Worth the detour if you're exploring East Lothian properly rather than just passing through.