Geology of Edinburgh course: Dunbar walk

Welcome to the Geology of Edinburgh course, a combination of walks and online learning in October and November 2025. You are welcome to attend the whole course, or individual sessions. Programme & booking information – geowalks.scot/geology-courses/.

Geology of Edinburgh course: Old Red Sandstone and younger sedimentary rocks, Dunbar, East Lothian

This short walk along the coast at Dunbar introduces a varied selection of sedimentary rocks, including the Old Red Sandstone, beautifully displayed along the coast, and younger Carboniferous sedimentary rocks at Belhaven.

THE ROCKS: Between 400 and 300 million years ago, sedimentary rocks accumulated in the central belt of Scotland. The oldest rocks, the Old Red Sandstone, formed when Scotland was located south of the equator and moving northwards. Over 100 million years, the climate and environmental conditions changed, resulting in a varied selection of rocks.

THE WALK: We’ll walk from the east beach in Dunbar, through the harbour area and along the esplanade and the edge of the Winterfield Golf Course to Belhaven, returning by a quiet inland road. I have classified this as a Moderate Walk, not always on paths, it may be rough or slippery underfoot at times. It may be wet, windy or cold. Come equipped with strong footwear and waterproof clothing.  Duration 3 hours, distance 5 km.

MEETING POINT & ROUTE: Meet by the John Muir Statue outside the Dunbar Townhouse & Museum, High St, Dunbar EH42 1ER. Grid reference NT 6792 7892 | Nearest Postcode: EH42 1ER | What3Words: begun.paper.decorated | Route Map.