Hotels in Dunbar

Discover Dunbar: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Vibrant Culture

Nestled along the stunning East Lothian coastline, Dunbar is a charming seaside town that beckons travelers with its breathtaking beaches and rich history. Explore the remnants of Dunbar Castle, perched dramatically on cliffs, or stroll along the picturesque harbor. With its vibrant local culture, delightful eateries, and outdoor adventures, including coastal walks and golf courses, Dunbar offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on sandy shores or discovering ancient ruins, this hidden gem is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Scottish experience. For the best hotel rates in Dunbar, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Dunbar

Some of the best places to stay in Dunbar are Dirleton, Pencaitland and Macmerry. Dirleton, Pencaitland, and Macmerry each offer unique experiences for travelers. Dirleton is known for its stunning castle and picturesque village, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Pencaitland boasts scenic countryside and local charm, while Macmerry offers easy access to nearby attractions. Accommodations in these areas range from cozy country inns to welcoming bed and breakfasts, often featuring hearty breakfast options to start your day. Overall, these locations provide a delightful blend of history and natural beauty for a memorable vacation. Here are some of the best hotels in Dunbar that our travelers love:

1. DirletonOpens in a new window: Dirleton is an enchanting destination perfect for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. With its picturesque village atmosphere, visitors can explore nearby attractions like the Royal Mile, Muirfield Golf Course, and the historic Edinburgh Castle. For accommodations, consider Greywalls Hotel and Chez RouxOpens in a new window, a 5-star hotel ideal for business and golf enthusiasts, offering multiple meeting rooms and golf experiences. Another excellent option is Marine North BerwickOpens in a new window, also a 5-star property, which features direct beach access and adventure sports. For families, The Bonnie BadgerOpens in a new window provides a beach-themed experience with amenities like mini-golf and arcade games, ensuring a delightful stay for guests of all ages.
2. PencaitlandOpens in a new window: Pencaitland is rich in culture and history, making it an excellent base for exploring the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and the University of Edinburgh. Staying at Tweeddale Arms HotelOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel, allows pet-friendly adventures with nearby recreational activities like fishing and horse riding. For a luxurious experience, Fauhope HouseOpens in a new window combines business amenities with a charming atmosphere, while SCHLOSS Roxburghe, part of Destination by HyattOpens in a new window offers a family-friendly environment with adventure sports and children’s amenities, ensuring a memorable stay for everyone.
3. MacmerryOpens in a new window: Macmerry is a culturally vibrant area, with easy access to attractions like the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. It’s an ideal spot for travelers interested in adventure and romance. Crescent HouseOpens in a new window, a 5.5-star guesthouse, caters to business and romantic getaways, featuring excellent amenities such as a 24-hour business center and adventure sports. Alternatively, Prestonfield HouseOpens in a new window offers a family-friendly boutique experience with unique decor and childcare services, while 94DROpens in a new window provides a luxurious stay in a Victorian-style building with business amenities, perfect for those seeking elegance and comfort.

Things to do in Dunbar for first time

Dunbar offers a perfect three-day getaway for travelers seeking stunning beaches, rugged coastal cliffs, and lush parks. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, and boating, while immersing yourself in local festivals that celebrate the vibrant culture. Discover the natural beauty and charm that make Dunbar a memorable destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Dunbar:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Tyninghame Beach, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning stroll along the sandy shore, taking in the stunning coastal scenery. Afterward, head to Tantallon Studios, a delightful local art gallery where you can browse unique pieces created by talented artists. Finally, wrap up your day at Peffer Sands, another beautiful beach that offers breathtaking views and a perfect spot for relaxation as the sun sets.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at Seacliff Beach, a hidden gem known for its dramatic cliffs and scenic views—ideal for photography enthusiasts. From there, make your way to North Berwick Law, a hill that provides panoramic views of the surrounding area after a short hike. Conclude your day with a visit to Tantallon Castle, where you can explore the impressive ruins and learn about its fascinating history while enjoying views of the Firth of Forth.
• Day 3: Start your morning at North Berwick Harbour, a lively spot perfect for experiencing the local fishing culture. Next, make your way to the National Museum of Flight, where you can explore fascinating exhibits on aviation history and even see some vintage aircraft up close. End your day at John Muir House, celebrating the life of the famous naturalist and his connection to this beautiful region. Enjoy the serene gardens and insightful displays that highlight his environmental legacy.

5 tips to find a great Dunbar hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to explore Dunbar on a budget, the most affordable time to visit is during January, February, and November when hotel prices are significantly lower. International travelers should aim to book their flights at least two months in advance to secure better rates. A stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended to fully enjoy the area's highlights, including its beautiful beaches. With its great value for money, Dunbar is an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're seeking great last-minute deals to Dunbar, Hotels.com offers a fantastic opportunity to find discounted rates on nearby hotels. To uncover these offers, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find competitive room rates, including refundable options. To stay informed about potential savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, allowing you to catch flash sales and special promotions that may enhance your travel experience.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Dunbar.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas often offers convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next reservation in Dunbar and be a part of Hotels.com's free One Key program, which enables members to take advantage of reward points for hotel bookings. Progress through the tiers of Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum to unlock advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Start earning reward points now.

Best time to go to Dunbar

Dunbar experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 40.6°F (4.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 57.7°F (14.3°C). October is usually the wettest month. April, July, and September are the peak travel months in Dunbar, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with dry to light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.