This gentle walk along the East Lothian coast explores contrasting sedimentary rocks including limestone that is stacked with fossils and contains rich evidence of the conditions of equatorial Scotland around 330 million years ago.

THE ROCKS: The walk starts in a volcano, and after we’ve seen the volcanic rocks which help create Dunbar’s harbour, we will walk past layers of Devonian red sandstone which surround the volcanic vents. Further along the shore we cross a few small faults, and come to a variety of younger sedimentary rocks from the Carboniferous Period. These rocks include limestone with plenty of fossils, best seen between White Sands and Barns Ness.

THE WALK: This is a walk on beaches and paths, along the coast to the east of Dunbar. I have classified this as a Moderate Walk: not always on paths, may be rough or slippery underfoot at times. It may be wet, windy or cold. Come equipped with strong footwear, waterproof clothing and something to eat and drink. One-way distance is 5 km.

MEETING POINT & ROUTE: Meet in Dunbar harbour, beside the lifting bridge. Grid reference: NT680792 | Nearest Postcode: EH42 1HS | What3Words: drew.hoping.tarnished | Route Map. Get in touch if you’d like to arrange a car shuttle so that you only have to walk one way.

An event for the Scottish Geology Festival.