The summer is finally here and with so many amazing sights to see and adventures to embark upon across Edinburgh and the Lothians, we’re here to take you to the door of each and every one of them.
Whether you’re at one with outdoors, or the animal kingdom, Lothian will get you there safe and sound. With our incredible value-for-money services on offer across our entire network, if you’re heading out this summer, we’re ready to help along the way.
Take the bus, discover more: Explore what’s at your door this summer.
Here in Edinburgh and the Lothians, we are extremely lucky that we have so many fantastic options for an exciting day, exploring the outdoors. Our buses serve some of the region’s most iconic outdoor hotspots and we’re delighted to share some of them with you now.
1. Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park
While we can’t take you all the way up Arthur’s Seat to experience one of the most exquisite views of the city, we can take you pretty close! If you’re planning on walking up Arthur’s Seat this summer, conserve your energy for the hike and allow us to take you there. Our Service 35 serves the Royal Mile, and by alighting at the Scottish Parliament bus stop and walking towards Holyrood, you’re greeted by the stunning scenery in front of you.
Coming in from the other side? Lothian Services 2, 14, 30 and 33 all serve the Royal Commonwealth Pool bus stop, which is a short hop, skip and a jump away from Holyrood Park Hill. Whether you’re scaling the heights or just enjoying a leisurely stroll around the hill, this is the perfect outdoor activity on a sunny day.
And don’t worry if you expend too much energy, we’ll be waiting to take you back home at the end of the day too.
2. Portobello Beach
Everyone loves Porty Beach! There are few finer things than a day on the beach when the sun is out. There’s fun for all of the family down at the sea. Whether you’re on your own, looking to escape the busy city or as part of a group hoping for a fun-filled afternoon in Portobello.
Hop on any of our Services 12, 19, 21, 26, 49 and look out for the Portobello Town Hall bus stop on your journey. Alight here and make the short walk down to the waterfront. As well as the beach, Portobello has various options for food and refreshments and there’s no shortage of ice cream either.
Just don’t forget your sunscreen and shades when leaving the bus!
3. Polkemmet Country Park
Explore one of West Lothian’s most beautiful country parks at Polkemmet, near Whitburn. There really is something for everyone at Polkemmet, including a play area for the kids, a bowling green and even a nine-hole golf course!
Heading from outside Whitburn? Take our Lothian Country Service X18 and alight at Whitburn Polkemmet Road and after a 15-20 minute walk you will reach the country park, which is also home to the Scottish Owl Centre, so you may hear a hoot or two on arrival.
The park is not only a hit with families, but cyclists enjoy the breathing space of the park on their routes across West Lothian. There is an onsite café for refreshments and is one of Scotland’s best spots for a picnic!
4. East Links Family Park
East Lothian boasts some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery and East Links Family Park also hosts some of the region’s most stunning creatures too, such as Highland Cows, Sheep, Goats and Horses to name a few.
Jump on our East Coast Buses’ Services 106 or X7 and get off at the aptly named East Links Family Park bus stop. Don’t forget to take a trip on the Safari Train, which will traverse around the farm to meet the animals who roam the site daily. If you’d like to get in the driving seat yourself, the park also offers go-karting. There’s even a crazy golf course to take on as well.
Remember to tell our drivers all about your fantastic day out on the bus journey home!
5. Dalkeith Country Park
With 1,000 acres to explore, including the wonderful Wilderness Walk, you’ll need all of your energy for your visit to Dalkeith Country Park, so allow us to take you there and back.
Coming from the City Centre? Our Service 3 will take you to within a short walk from the park by getting off at Buccleuch Street. Lothian’s Service X33 and East Coast Buses’ Services 140 and 141 will take you even closer by getting off at Corn Exchange stop in Dalkeith.
You may want to get to the park early as there is so much to do! Dalkeith Country Park is one of only three Go Ape locations in Scotland, so you’ll have to swing by sharpish to beat the queues.
The park offers refreshments, a shop as well as the chance to enjoy the nature trails. You’ll need all day just to scratch the surface of this incredible location.
Fancy taking us up on our suggestions? Maybe you plan on doing more than one activity during the day? Our value-for-money ticketing ensures you can make your way around Edinburgh and the Lothians for less this summer. Our Network DAYticket offers unlimited journeys on day and NightBus services across our entire network for just £12 for adults and £6 for children*
*Children go free using their under 22s bus pass.