River Tyne: Haddington to East Linton

This attractive linear walk follows the banks of the River Tyne downstream from Haddington - the traditional capital of East Lothian - to historic East Linton. The walk has plenty of interest - including views of Hailes Castle on the opposite bank - and there is a good bus service available for the return journey.

Terrain

Riverside footpaths, can be muddy in places.

Public Transport

Buses serve both Haddington and East Linton, with a good link between the two small towns.

Start

Haddington High Street. Open start point in Google Maps for directions.

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 10.25km / 6.25 miles
Time: 3 - 3.5 hours
Ascent: 5m (Profile)
Start Grid Ref: NT514738

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Walk Description

Stage 1

The walk begins from the High Street in Haddington; look out for the Mercat Cross, topped by a statue of a goat which also appears on the town's crest eating grapes - a symbol of prosperity. Haddington was once one of the most important towns in Scotland, but it suffered from attacks by the English army and was badly damaged by floods in 1358. Begin by heading east along the High Street, noting the turrets on the George Hotel on the left. At the main road junction turn right then immediately left into Church Street, which is partly cobbled.

Stage 2

Follow this fine street of houses to pass an art gallery and a stone cylindrical tower. On the left is Nungate Bridge which dates back to the twelfth century. The bridge enjoys a beautiful setting with attractive cottages reflected in the waters of the River Tyne; it can be hard to imagine that this was once the scene of the town's executions - note the hanging hook. Cross the bridge and then turn left down the cobbled riverside lane. Eventually you are forced to turn right; take the next left after this to reach the main road.

Stage 3

Turn right along this until just after the cemetery, following a cycle path to a bridge over the river (unmarked on many OS maps). On the far side bear right through the play area, soon joining a cycle path which heads downstream into the open countryside. At one point the route passes an attractive weir.

Stage 4

At the old Abbey Bridge the cycleway departs to join the road, but our route passes underneath the northernmost arch to continue along the riverbank. The path is now narrow and can be muddy in places. Before reaching Sandy's Mill the path passes an old sluice gate and follows the former mill race. Do not cross the bridge but continue on the grass track.

Stage 5

Turn right at a signpost to follow a line to the attractive group of cottages at Sandy's Mill. Pass between these and the old mill itself - which still has its waterwheel on the far wall. The path runs alongside the garden and then cuts across the lawn - facilitated by two gates - to rejoin the riverbank.

Stage 6

The next stretch is idyllic, with fine old trees, and soon the dramatic ruins of Hailes Castle are seen on the far side of the river. Ignore a footpath heading left and continue by the river to reach a footbridge. Our route doesn't cross this - but you could use the bridge if you wished to make a detour to visit Hailes Castle.

Stage 7

Otherwise continue ahead. Soon the path and river pass under a giant bridge carrying the busy A1. At one point the path ascends a flight of wooden steps before continuing by the river to pass under another bridge and emerge at a cottage. Bear left here to head up a lane into East Linton, and turn right at the main road to reach the pub - and the bus stop for the return journey to Haddington.

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