The swimming centre is also one of the few remaining Victorian pools that has a working Aerotone – an early hydrotherapy treatment that’s similar to a modern Jacuzzi.

Due to the shallowness of the water, the waves ride quite high when the winds blow in from the north, making this beach one of the best in the area for windsurfing while the firm sand is a popular place for sand yachting. Nowhere has a more dramatic coastline than St Abb's, with towering white cliffs stretching all the way along the land, topped with luscious green bluffs. This picturesque village is best known for its exceptional golf courses (the Muirfield course is a regular host of the Open Championship) but it’s more popular for the fabulous golden sand beach that runs along its northern edge. You’ll find 2 miles of golden sand at Portobello Beach so there are plenty of spots away from the crowded areas where it’s possible to set up a picnic in relative peace and quiet, especially towards the northern end.

Food and drink in Portobello

The area around Portobello Beach also has several parks and green spaces such as Rosefield Park and Figgate Park which both have children’s play parks, while Portobello itself hosts several events and festivals throughout the year such as the annual Big Beach Busk and the Portobello Village Show. The Portobello Kayaking and Sailing Club is based here, along with RowPorty, a community-run coastal rowing club. Look out also for the splendid Victorian swimming pool, featuring an original Aerotone and Turkish baths.

In addition to the cafes on the promenade there are lots more on Portobello high street which is just a couple of minutes’ walk away.One less-known fact about Prestonpans is that it has a couple of (admittedly rather small) beaches.

Aberlady Bay also has a fascinating history as it was used as a testing ground for military vehicles during World War II.Another gorgeous beach in East Lothian with a mixed habitat of sand dunes and marshes which hold a healthy population of wildfowl. A 20-minute bus ride from the city center, Portobello Beach is the local's favorite. Located on the eastern outskirts of the city, the quaint high street drops straight down to the curved promenade via steep cobbled alleys. Enjoy a coastal stroll in between the soft sand and elegant Georgian and Victorian architecture that runs the full length of the seafront. Need to hire a car to explore Edinburgh’s beaches? Out About Scotland recommends Travel Supermarket.