Things to do in Tranent

Activities, attractions and tours

Signpost in English and Scots Gaelic indicating the location of the 1745 Battle of Prestonpans (it had previously been known as the Battle of Gledsmuir and The Battle of Tranent).
Signpost in English and Scots Gaelic indicating the location of the 1745 Battle of Prestonpans (it had previously been known as the Battle of Gledsmuir and The Battle of Tranent).
The High Street
Butterdean Wood, East Lothian, Scotland.
Farmland, House of Muir. Big arable field. Hedges have been recently (2003) removed to make this field.
Photo by Richard Webb (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
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Top places to visit

1. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, the oldest building in the city, sits high on a craggy volcanic rock just near the city center. During its history, which spans almost a thousand years, the stronghold has witnessed sieges, served as a military base and provided refuge for Scottish monarchs.
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Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh, Scotland

2. Royal Mile

Go for a sightseeing trip along the Royal Mile, a series of streets that forms the main artery of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the oldest part of the city. This ancient cobblestone route stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It has been used by pedestrians for hundreds of years, and houses some of the city’s most fascinating old buildings.
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sunset time, Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland

3. University of Edinburgh

Explore the campuses of the University of Edinburgh and soak up the academic atmosphere in its museums and galleries. Sights such as the quad of the Georgian Old College and the Gothic towers of New College on the Mound are iconic parts of the cityscape.
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University of Edinburgh showing heritage architecture and heritage elements

4. Edinburgh Zoo

Escape to the Edinburgh Zoo for a few hours of animal-based adventures. Spread over an 82-acre (33-hectare) site, the zoo has a collection of more than 1,000 animals representing almost 200 species.
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Edinburgh Zoo which includes zoo animals and marine life

5. National Museum of Scotland

Be engrossed for hours in the National Museum of Scotland’s fascinating exhibits. This celebrated attraction packs hundreds of displays into its high-ceilinged galleries and white-marble corridors. A comprehensive look at Scottish history adds local interest, while exhibits dedicated to anthropology and technology give the museum a global perspective.
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National Museum of Scotland featuring interior views

What to do in Tranent

Popular places to visit

Edinburgh Castle which includes heritage elements and château or palace

Edinburgh Castle

4.5/5(1,009 reviews)

Fortress, palace and repository of the crown jewels, this landmark overlooking the city has played a crucial role in Scottish history.

Edinburgh Castle
Royal Mile which includes a house, heritage architecture and street scenes

Royal Mile

4.5/5(575 reviews)

Explore this area in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town to find ancient buildings, historic relics, shops, museums and range of dining options.

Royal Mile
Walter Scott Monument in the Rainy Day, Edinburgh, Scotland

Princes Street

4.5/5(628 reviews)

During your trip to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Princes Street. Experience the entertainment choices and fascinating museums in this walkable area.

Princes Street
Scenic sight in Edinburgh with the Castle in the background. Scotland.

Grassmarket

4.5/5(442 reviews)

During your visit to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Grassmarket. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Grassmarket
Aerial view of Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Roseburn St, Edinburgh, VK

Murrayfield Stadium

4.5/5(181 reviews)

Catch an event at Murrayfield Stadium and enjoy other activities in Edinburgh such as golfing.Discover the lively festivals and shops in this walkable area.

Murrayfield Stadium
University of Edinburgh showing heritage architecture and heritage elements

University of Edinburgh

4.5/5(233 reviews)

The campus of Edinburgh's venerable educational institution is spread seamlessly around the architecture of the city and opens to the public during year-round events.

University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh Zoo showing land animals and zoo animals

Edinburgh Zoo

4.5/5(204 reviews)

See rare and endangered species and learn about the efforts to conserve them at Edinburgh’s largest wildlife attraction.

Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh royal playhouse theater

Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre

4.5/5(187 reviews)

Enjoy a performance at Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, a theatre with a story to tell in Edinburgh. Experience the area's fascinating museums and lively festivals.

Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre
National Museum of Scotland which includes interior views as well as a large group of people

National Museum of Scotland

4.5/5(539 reviews)

Science, nature, history and culture come together in this spectacular museum, which celebrates learning about the world and all its wonders.

National Museum of Scotland
Aerial view of a reservoir's tranquil waters reflect the sky, embraced by the rugged hillsides and vibrant autumn foliage, Haddington, Scotland, United Kingdom.

Haddington

Inveresk Lodge & Gardens

Musselburgh

Calton Hill which includes a sunset, skyline and a city

Edinburgh

Scottish houses on the shore near the beach with traditional Scottish architecture near the sea Scotland Travel Concept at Prestonpans near Edinburgh at down sunset

Prestonpans

Lovely castle tucked well out the way, but definitely worth a visit. Fantastic internal wall section.

Pathhead

Frequently asked questions

Is Tranent worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor activities and history, there are many interesting things to do in Tranent. Don't forget to experience the area's mix of cool sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Tranent?
Kick your day off with a visit to Portobello Beach and Palace of Holyroodhouse. Then, tour different areas of Tranent for local restaurants and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Tranent?
The top tourist attraction in Tranent is Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, so make sure to put it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Tranent?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out the leading city sights, such as Glenkinchie Distillery, Seton Sands and Joppa Shore. The average stay in Tranent is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your getaway, Edinburgh isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Tranent with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Tranent with kids.

What to do in Tranent for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Tranent for adults including Glenkinchie Distillery and Pickering's Gin Distillery.
Are there free things to do in Tranent?
One of the easiest ways to discover free things to do in Tranent is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without opening your wallet. Seton Sands is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.