River Tyne

The River Tyne rises in the Moorfoot Hills south of Edinburgh and flows about 50 kilometres northeast to the North Sea near Belhaven. It begins where the Birns Water and Tyne Water meet east of Easter Pencaitland, joined by the Humbie Water and many smaller burns. The river gathers water from Midlothian and East Lothian, passing through farmland, woodlands and villages on its way. The Tyne is recognised for its trout fishing, with the East Lothian Angling Association managing 25 miles of the river and its tributaries. Along the route stand historic sites such as Hailes Castle, Preston Mill and Tyninghame House, while the landscape includes plantations, bridges and the John Muir Country Park. The river’s course also touches places linked to notable figures like engineer John Rennie, born at Phantassie Farm. A visitor follows the Tyne through quiet countryside and along broad sandy bays where the river meets the sea. Paths run beside the water past mills, churches and country houses, with views of Traprain Law and the Firth Plantation. At the mouth, Belhaven Bay and Hedderwick Sands offer open shores where the Tyne’s fresh water mingles with the North Sea.