Copyright dailyrecord
Scotland is home to some of the best dog friendly escapes, and a new offering in East Lothian is giving pet owners the perfect excuse for an autumn getaway. Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts has launched the latest edition of its Adventure Weekends series , a collection of curated, dog friendly itineraries created in partnership with Hollie Jenkins, founder of The Edinburgh Spaniels. The new experience is based at Marine North Berwick, a coastal retreat less than an hour south of Edinburgh. The Adventure Weekends with Marine & Lawn initiative is designed to encourage people to reconnect with nature through mindful exploration and outdoor adventure. Previous series have included cold water swimming retreats with surfer and yoga instructor Sophie Hellyer, and golfing expeditions with Land of Ride. This time, the focus is on the connection between pet ownership, nature and wellbeing. A growing body of research supports the mental health benefits of spending time outdoors with dogs. A Nature study found that people who spend at least two hours a week in natural environments report better wellbeing, while a 2024 Rover report showed pet owners are 10 percent more likely to describe themselves as happy. A Nestlé UK poll revealed 80 percent of people believe walking their dogs has boosted their mental health, and a Kennel Club survey found three quarters of owners feel happier after a dog walk. At Marine North Berwick, guests can choose from two itineraries curated by Hollie Jenkins, a single day adventure or a three-day stay, both available as complimentary add-ons when booking an afternoon tea or overnight stay. Each itinerary highlights North Berwick’s most scenic walking routes, ranging from 5km to 20km, and includes trails through beaches, forests and along rugged coastlines. The single day plan features a hike up North Berwick Law for sweeping coastal views and a peaceful woodland walk through The Glen. It also includes a gentle out-and-back route across the West Links Golf Course and Broad Sands Beach, where dogs can play freely along the shore. For those opting for a weekend itinerary, longer routes take in East Lothian’s historic landmarks. One walk follows the dramatic coastal path to Tantallon Castle, a 14th century fortress overlooking Bass Rock and the North Sea. Another traces the trail from Yellowcraig Beach to Dirleton Caves, passing Fidra Island, said to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. Marine North Berwick is known for its thoughtful, pet friendly approach. Dogs are welcome to join their owners for afternoon tea at the Bass Rock Bar or unwind in rooms complete with dog beds, water bowls, treats and a limited-edition Marine & Lawn bandana. Gina Clark, General Manager of Marine North Berwick, said: "We are delighted to collaborate with Hollie Jenkins from the Edinburgh Spaniels for our latest ‘Adventure Weekends’ series, a continuation of our commitment to celebrating the natural beauty of Scotland and crafting exceptional outdoor experiences for our guests. "These itineraries invite guests to reconnect with nature, unwind, and enjoy dedicated time with their four-legged companions any time of the season." Jenkins added: "It’s been such a pleasure to create our Adventure Weekends trip itineraries for Marine North Berwick. I hope they will help visiting dog owners to really make the most of exploring this beautiful town, and the wider East Lothian coastline,” added Jenkins. Opened in 2021, Marine North Berwick features 84 stylish rooms, a restaurant and bar overlooking the Firth of Forth, and an award-winning spa complete with heated pools, a thermal suite and a range of treatments. Just over half an hour by train from Edinburgh, the East Lothian coastline offers some of Scotland’s most accessible yet striking scenery, from golden beaches and rolling hills to world-class golf links. Day trip and overnight packages are available at on Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts website, with rates starting from £229 per night including breakfast and VAT.
