It's all about the Bass

After our success North of the Forth yesterday, today we headed east along the south of the firth.
I had noticed recently that Tantallon and Dirleton castles have reopened after the COVID closures. Both are in ruins but are full of history and set in very contrasting positions.
First stop was Tantallon just east of North Berwick, we were sad to see that several areas are still fenced off for safety checks, but most was open. We climbed to the top of the battlements and looked across the water. The Bass Rock was looking spectacular and it was good to see lots of birds flying around it.
From Tantallon we went just a mile up the road to the Drift cafe. We were lucky enough to get a seat inside, extra 1, again lovely views over the rock. They have tables outside and do take away as well as sit in food.
Our next stop was less than 10 miles away at Dirleton, just beyond North Berwick towards Edinburgh. My second extra comes from there. Looking upwards inside the beautifully restored 16th century doocot. Boys were sent to climb up to raid the 2000 nesting boxes for eggs or birds. It's a remarkable and very substantial building. This castle again had several areas inaccessible, but it's well worth a visit. Don't think I'd bring the girls yet though my heart would be in my mouth as they clambered around, even down into the dungeon.
The castle is set in beautiful gardens redesigned in Victorian times. Lots of butterflies enjoying the sunshine and colourful flowers
It was hard to choose pictures today, East Lothian in the sunshine is beautiful.
I've now added yesterday's second extra, thanks for letting me know I'd missed it!