Home Report Longniddry

The scenic village of Longniddry in East Lothian lies on the Firth of Forth with a population of roughly 2340 residents. It is about 3.5 miles east of Cockenzie and Port Seton, just under 4 miles northeast of Tranent, about 4 east of Prestonpans, about 7 east of Musselburgh, and just over 14 miles east of Edinburgh. It is surrounded by farmland to the south and some fantastic beaches to the north, so it retains a small village feel without being too far away from any other major settlements.

Longniddry was a mining settlement from the 16th century. It was developed in the early 20th century as a veteran’s garden city. Today, it is an expanding dormitory village for commuters working mainly in Edinburgh and Musselburgh, though some do work in other East Lothian settlements like Haddington and Prestonpans. The fact it has its own railway station on the East Coast Main Line is particularly advantageous for commuters, adding to the appeal of the village. The A1 trunk road is a short journey away also and will take commuters by car all the way through to Edinburgh.

In terms of amenities and things to do, Longniddry has an array of local services and shops you would expect including some nice local eateries. Being so close to other settlements like Cockenzie and Port Seton, Prestonpans, and Tranent means residents can make use of the amenities and services therein also. However, several beautiful beaches are practically on the doorstep of the village known as the Longniddry Bents, as well as popular golf courses such as Longniddry Golf Club, Seton Sands Golf Course, and Port Seton Golf Club. The popular golf courses of Muirfield, Gullane and Craigielaw are a bit further away, but well within reach of the village. Seton Sands – a popular beach and resort – provides an ideal location for family day trips. The beach also provides good walking and horse riding while windsurfers and canoeists often use the sea.

Also worth mentioning is Gosford House, an imposing neo-classical mansion which was one of the last great architectural commissions of the celebrated Scots architect, Robert Adam. It is set in 5,000 acres of combined coast and parkland. Longniddry is also close to nature reserves making it great for nature lovers, particularly bird spotting.

As for local schooling, the village is served by a single primary school: Longniddry Primary School. When of secondary age, pupils would usually attend Preston Lodge High School in Prestonpans or Ross High School in Tranent.