Three of the best seaside homes for sale in North Berwick

The seaside town of North Berwick is consistently popular with a lot to offer –and house prices reflect this, finds Kirsty McLuckie.

Fringe by the Sea, North Berwick’s creative and quirky festival, kicks off this week and features 168 events over ten days with intimate performances from some big names.

Now in its 11th year, it is seen as an alternative to the capital’s festivals, but then the East Lothian town has always had its own attractions to tempt those away from Edinburgh – whether for a day out at the seaside or a more permanent stay.

In terms of property prices, North Berwick is one of the few places in Scotland that could rival the capital but then East Lothian has a lot to recommend it to buyers.

Those who already live there are likely to extol its virtues: in a recent survey, 97 per cent of East Lothian respondents felt they were lucky to live there.

It is easy to see why; the wider area has 40 miles of Forth coastline with some spectacular beaches, while inland are character-filled villages and historic market towns in an area of Scotland known to enjoy more sunshine than anywhere else.

And golf is a major draw, with East Lothian having its share of world-class courses.

North Berwick is seen as something of the jewel in the crown, with a lively town centre, boutique shopping, excellent restaurants and tourist attractions.

Add in quality schooling and the town regularly features on lists of the best places to live in Scotland, and the UK.

All this desirability does come at a cost, however, with North Berwick featuring top of the list of most expensive seaside towns for property in Scotland.

The fact that there is quick and easy commuting to and from Edinburgh means that prices have always been inextricably linked to the capital.

Developers have responded to increased demand and new homes are springing up on the edges of the town, but there are plenty of traditional houses to choose from too.