Edinburgh leisure time 
As a city, Edinburgh isn't short of open green spaces.  But if you are based in the city centre then you are never far from open countryside and the sea as the Lothians offer unspoilt beaches, historic castles and beautiful hotels 
Did you know...? 
East Lothian has the highest concentration of championship golf courses in the world? 

Just three miles east of Leith is the beach at Portobello, Midlothian - an ideal place to walk along the promenade or perhaps take a sunbathe - this beach is very popular during the summer months. 
The village of Aberlady in East Lothian lies 17 miles east of the city centre and is popular among golfers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Aberlady Bay is great for walks and particularly good for bird watching with the spring and winter seasons seeing the most bird activity. Aberlady is also renowned for its golf with two links courses: Kilspindie and Craigielaw. 
In Edinburgh and Lothians you are never far from a golf course, be it inland, parkland or links.  And as the home of golf - Musselburgh, East Lothian, is home to the oldest golf course in the world - the region has much to offer golfers of all levels including beginners, professionals and families.  There are over 80 great courses to choose from in Edinburgh, Lothians and the Borders. 
The village of Gullane, with pubs, restaurants and shops, 20 miles from Edinburgh and Gullane Bents and just a short walk from the village, is particularly popular with surfers.  A regular bus service runs from the city centre.  Gullane is also a top destination in the UK for golfers with its four courses including Muirfield - one of the most highly regarded courses on the Championship rota.  
Further along the East Lothian coast lies the seaside town of North Berwick offering sandy beaches and a small harbour, restaurants, cafes and other leisure activities such as fishing. It is, of course, extremely popular with visitors wishing to take advantage of its ideal location for access to the area's golf courses. Other attractions include the Scottish Seabird Centre and the ruins of 14th century Tantallon Castle. 
Useful contacts: 
www.golfeastlothian.com www.visitscotland.com www.historic-scotland.gov.uk