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Tyninghame and John Muir Country Park

a woodland path in the John Muir Country Park

Explore Tyninghame and John Muir Country Park on the coast of East Lothian, a great place to see birds with marvellous scenery.

The coast of East Lothian is one of the best areas in Scotland to see birds. There are several sites along the coast that are easily accessible from Edinburgh, one of which is the magnificent Tyninghame Bay.

Tyninghame Bay is the estuary of the River Tyne that flows into the North Sea just north of the coastal town of Dunbar. John Muir Country Park covers much of this scenic area, providing access to many square miles of saltmarsh, shore and woodlands, and is very popular with birdwatchers, dog walkers and anyone who loves getting out in the great outdoors. As well as being much-loved by people, Tyninghame is particularly attractive to avian visitors – with the variety of habitats on offer, it is not surprising that over 225 species have been seen in the area.

There are interesting birds to be seen here at all times of year, but especially in winter and at migration times. Beautiful white whooper swans and wild geese including stately black and white barnacles stop in to feed in the safety of the estuary or on the surrounding farmland. Another wonderful white visitor is the little egret, a dainty heron that is sure to light up any day as it fishes in the creeks and shallows of the bay. Waders such as whimbrel, greenshank and curlew sandpiper drop in to the estuary in spring and autumn, while winter brings large numbers of dunlin, knot, curlew, golden plover and others.

You never know what you might encounter in this fabulous place. Rare visitors are always a possibility, so keep your eyes peeled. The whole area is a scenic delight, providing the ideal setting for a perfect birdwatching walk.