Balgone Estate, North Berwick, Scotland, EH39 5NY
Balgone Estate Farm has just opened the sunflower trail for bookings in August. Slots go quick at weekends so it’s best to book ahead. This year they’re open for adults-only evening bookings too so you can capture the sunset hours.
This sea of sunflowers by the sea is a wee bit of magic for an hour or two in East Lothian. Catch it on a warm day for respite from the Edinburgh Festival mayhem of August.
Balgone Estate’s annual Sunflower Trail is a ten-minute bus trip (or a two-mile walk) from the seaside town of North Berwick. Every August - and only in August - you can visit this maze of sunflowers, stop off for some enhanced selfie opportunities and pick your own sunflowers for a small charity donation.
I took guests on a tour there last year. Due to a colder summer, the sunflowers were not quite so high as previously - you’ll see that in my photos. Typically though, it’ll feel just like a maze. Each turn of the trail is a new opportunity for photography and sketching. There are a few surprise surreal stops along the way too.
a Scottish sunflower summer stroll
Ask any local resident of Edinburgh, they’re likely unaware of this hidden golden treasure close to Berwick Law. On arrival at Balgone Estate, the spectacle of thousands of radiant yellow sunflowers greeting you is pretty magical.
You can meander along the trail, enjoy the vibrant hues of cheery sunflowers with a smattering of wildflowers around its border.
pick your own sunflowers
Balgone Estate Sunflower Trail is more than just a visual feast of flowers. Get hands-on with the secateurs and take a bunch home with you. Take a moment to breathe in the fresh air and listen to the soft rustle of the petals and the odd bee buzz here and there.
Practicalities:
getting there by public transport: from Edinburgh, just a half hour trip to North Berwick on the train. Walk along the John Muir Way from North Berwick or take a short ten-minute country ride on the 121 North Berwick – Haddington bus.
timing: The sunflowers are in full bloom only in August, so plan your visit accordingly. Early mornings or late afternoons provide the most spectacular lighting for photography. It can get busy mid-day.
what to bring: comfy shoes you don’t mind getting muddy, and your camera.
pick your own sunflowers: make your own bouquet – with some profits going to charity.
facilities: portaloos, picnic areas, cafe, local street food trucks.
seasonal attraction only: only open in August. Visit in October to catch the pumpkin patch.
book in advance: book online or by phone and pick a time slot. It can sell out at weekends.
time travel fact: the Balgone Estate is located on a volcanic fault line.
My trip to Balgone Estate’s Sunflower Trail was quirky, simple and fun. If you’re looking to add something different to your Edinburgh adventure and see a bit of the countryside, it’s worth a trip.
So pack a day bag, grab your camera, and treat yourself to Balgone this August.
