Cross County Challenge - Day 2, East Linton to Gifford

Information

East Lothian offers a rich network of paths and trails that enable walkers to explore its stunning landscapes — from dramatic coastline and peaceful rivers to the rolling Lammermuir hills. Among them is the famous John Muir Way, one of Scotland’s National Trails, which crosses the county from east to west and forms a highlight for many who wish to experience the area’s natural coastal beauty.

This year, the East Lothian Walking Festival is delighted to introduce a brand-new long-distance route devised by East Lothian Ramblers.

This trail crosses the county from its most northerly point to its most southerly, following a wonderful variety of paths along the way. The route offers five days of walking, each with its own character, distance, and degree of challenge — a perfect opportunity to appreciate the rich diversity of East Lothian’s landscape.

Please be sure to read the walk descriptions carefully before choosing which section(s) to complete. And for those who wish to take on the entire route, we will celebrate your accomplishment with a special certificate at the end of your adventure.

Day 2, East Linton to Gifford

Distance: 13 miles (tbc), ascent: 250 m

Day Two of the Cross-County Challenge begins in beautiful East Linton. We will start by following the River Tyne path towards Haddington. Walking alongside the river, we will pass the historic Hailes Castle, go through the restored buildings at Sandy’s Mill and catch a glimpse of the landscaped grounds around Stevenson House.

This is a lovely, tranquil section where we’ll have a chance of seeing a variety of wildlife, possibly even an otter or two!

We’ll pass the historic Abbey Bridge and continue to follow the river through Haddington to the Stevenson Bridge.

There we will leave the river and head up to the Lennoxlove Estate, home to the White Park Cattle, a rare breed linked to the ancient aurochs (please note we may have to go through a field of cattle here). After a short section of road walking, we will arrive at the village of Bolton, (with its Robert Burns connections) where we turn off the road to cross farmland.

The final section of the walk is a lovely riverside and woodland trail that will take us to the edge of Gifford and the end of the second stage of the Cross-County Challenge!

What to bring
Boots and waterproofs are essential. Bring a snack for morning coffee break and a packed lunch, a hot drink and sufficient water to keep hydrated, at least 1 litre. Also a mat or plastic sheet to sit on. We will not be stopping at cafes en route.

More information
This walk is for fit, experienced walkers.

Possible detour for toilets in Haddington if required.

Up to four well-behaved dogs on leads are allowed.

Return transport available from Gifford Village Hall at 5 pm with drop off at East Linton station car park and possible drop off in Haddington town centre (on request).

With
East Lothian Ramblers. For more information, visit www.ramblers.org.uk
Grateful thanks to Community Windpower for their support of this event