John Muir Way: Dunbar Coastal Section
Edinburgh
The Dunbar coastal section of the John Muir Way is a dog friendly walk along some of East Lothian's most dramatic coastline. Named after the pioneering conservationist who was born in Dunbar, this route follows clifftop paths and rocky shoreline between the harbour and Belhaven Bay, with views across the North Sea and the chance to spot seabirds nesting on the cliffs.
Dogs can be off lead along much of the coastal path, though care is needed near cliff edges and on sections that cross farmland where livestock may be present. The terrain is varied, with well surfaced paths near the harbour giving way to narrower, sometimes muddy clifftop trails. Parking is available free at Dunbar Leisure Pool car park or Victoria Harbour. The town centre has plenty of cafes and public toilets.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 8.0 km (5.0 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Coastal, Historic
- Route Type
- Out and Back
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Low
- Facilities
- Cafes, shops and public toilets in Dunbar town centre.
- Parking
- Free parking at Dunbar Leisure Pool car park on the High Street, or at Victoria Harbour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is John Muir Way: Dunbar Coastal Section dog friendly?
Yes, the Dunbar coastal section of the John Muir Way is a great choice for dogs, earning a solid 8 out of 10 for dog friendliness. The route runs along clifftop paths and rocky shoreline between Dunbar Harbour and Belhaven Bay, offering plenty of space and interest for dogs to explore.
Can dogs be off lead at John Muir Way: Dunbar Coastal Section?
Dogs can be off lead along much of the coastal path, which makes for a lovely free-roaming walk. That said, you'll want to keep them on the lead near cliff edges and on any sections that cross farmland where livestock may be present.
What should I know before visiting John Muir Way: Dunbar Coastal Section with my dog?
The terrain varies along the route — paths near the harbour are well surfaced, but further along you'll encounter narrower clifftop trails that can get muddy, so it's worth wearing appropriate footwear. Free parking is available at Dunbar Leisure Pool car park on the High Street or at Victoria Harbour, and there are cafes, shops and public toilets in the town centre if you need to stock up or freshen up before or after your walk.
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