River Esk Path

Distance	Approximate Time	Height Gain	OS Map
4.5 kms	01:00 (hrs:mins)	25 metres	Explorer 351: Dunbar & North Berwick

Description

This walk is one of contrasts. From the open, windswept views across the Firth of Forth, through the bustle of Musselburgh town centre and its manicured riverside lawns, to the relative peace of the 'The Grove' a tree-lined path following the meandering river inland. It is possible to walk from the mouth of the river Esk in Musselburgh as far as Whitecraig some 5km to the south, on paths, with only one road crossing to negotiate.

Beginning at Goose Green, on the east side of the mouth of the Esk, follow the river south, first on the footpath, and then along the access road past the small car park and slipway at Shorthope Street. A path continues south, under the low arch of the Rennie Bridge and up to the Roman Bridge car park. A path follows the wall along the river to Olive Bank Road. Here, a slight detour to the pedestrian crossing at the junction with Eskview Terrace is needed. Follow the pavement along the edge of the industrial estate, until you reach the entrance signposted to the Grove path. This path follows the river past the old weir, below Inveresk, under the railway and A1 Edinburgh bypass, emerging at Cowpits, just north of the village of Whitecraig.

You can either retrace your steps here, or follow the minor road east to the A6124, turning left to pass the through the village of Inveresk. Here you can rejoin the riverside path or make your way through the back streets of Musselburgh back to the river mouth.

There are car parks at Shorthope Street, the Roman Bridge and in the Industrial Estate. Car parking is also possible to the east of Goose Green, near the Racecourse. Most of the route is flat, but there is a relatively steep incline between the A1 and Cowpits. Currently there are locked gates at various entrance points to the Grove path to prevent vehicular access. Horse-riders can write to the Landscape and Countryside section of East Lothian Council for a key.

Access Info

Start at Goose Green on the east side of the mouth of the River Esk. There are regular bus services to Musselburgh (see the Lothian Buses website for further information). There are also regular train services to nearby Wallyford.