The underrated Scottish coastal village home to country's 'best pub'
As we enter July, there will be many Scots looking for places to head for a day out. If there is one thing that Scotland has in spades, it is variety—from quiet fishing villages to bustling metropolises.
For those who are struggling to choose where to head for an afternoon or staycation, Belhaven in East Lothian is an underrated destination that is well worth a visit. The small village, which is next to the larger settlement of Dunbar, is known for its stunning scenery and is also home to an award-winning inn.
As previously reported by the Daily Record, the Scottish Hospitality Awards 2025 were held last week. The Brig & Barrel in Belhaven was named 'Pub/Inn Of The Year' at the prestigious awards.
The dog and family-friendly pub serves a varied selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, and spirits. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with its beer garden including booths that have heaters.
Visitors to The Brig & Barrel can also enjoy a wide variety of food. Starters include tomato bruschetta and salmon salad, while among the mains on offer are beef or veg chilli and scampi and chips.
The pub has received positive feedback from customers, with an average rating of 4.7 out of five on Google. Recent visitors have described it as "lovely" and "fantastic".
Just a short walk from The Brig & Barrel is Belhaven Bay. One of the top beauty spots in the region, the beach is located in the picturesque John Muir Country Park.
Belhaven Bay is a popular destination amongst walkers, picnickers, and sunbathers. It benefits from magnificent vistas across the Forth Estuary.
In addition to The Brig & Barrel, there are a number of other popular food spots dotted around Belhaven and the nearby settlements. These include the Dukes of West Barns Café in West Barns and Parkers Dunbar—both of which offer a range of tasty food and coffees.
Meanwhile, one of the top attractions in the village is Belhaven Brewery. Scotland's oldest working brewery, dating back to 1719, it offers tours where visitors can learn more about how its ales and stouts are made—and even taste a few.
Belhaven Brewery has received rave reviews from visitors. On Google, the brewery has an overall score of 4.9 out of five based on 267 reviews.
One traveller shared: "What a great tour of the brewery and its buildings, well worth the visit. Amazing to see and hear the history of how the brewery started.
"The smells of how beer is made, wow. Our tour guide Chris was amazing, our group was full of laughs. The tasting was brilliant especially the new lager was yummy. Will definitely be back for another tour."
Another popular attraction in the area is East Links Family Park, which is a family-friendly park that features train rides, go-karts, and more. It is also home to a farm where visitors can meet animals including Highland cows, goats, pigs, donkeys, and llamas.
In terms of accommodation, a popular choice in Belhaven is Belhaven Bay Caravan Park. The park offers touring and camping pitches, holiday homes, wigwams, and a cottage, and includes amenities such as play areas, internet and Wi-Fi, and a small shop.
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