August is a fun and busy time in Edinburgh, with the Festival in full swing. However, after battling the crowds on a daily basis, I was more than happy to head out of town when we had visitors last weekend.

Newhailes is a National Trust for Scotland property that we’ve been meaning to visit for some time. A new kids play park seemed to be drawing in the crowds, especially with the sun shining. We took a guided tour and then a walk around the grounds before tucking in to an ice cream.

On the Sunday, we headed further east beyond North Berwick, to a super little beach called Seacliff where Bass Rock and Tantallon Castle provide a super backdrop.