Forest bathing at Yellowcraig

Yellowcraig is a 17-hectare broadleaved wood run by East Lothian Council on the coast, set back behind the dunes and the beach that looks out to the island of Fidra. It is a well-used family spot, with a big play area, a barbecue area and toilets, and a community sculpture stands in the middle of the wood.

Because the facilities draw people to one area, the trick is to head into the plantation itself, where the paths spread out and it is easy to find a quieter line through the trees. The wood gives shelter from the wind off the Forth, and the dunes and beach are only a short walk away when you want open sky. Wildlife is plentiful. It makes a good easy-access option, with toilets on site, and works well as a short visit at either end of the day when the car park is quiet.