Scottish Seabird Centre

The Scottish Seabird Centre is a five-star wildlife visitor attraction and conservation charity on the harbour at North Berwick, East Lothian — about 30 minutes east of Edinburgh. Overlooking the islands of the Firth of Forth, it offers a window onto one of the most spectacular seabird spectacles in Britain, including the world’s largest colony of Northern gannets on the Bass Rock.
What to see and do

Live interactive cameras — remotely control cameras trained on the Bass Rock and nearby islands to watch gannets, puffins, seals and other wildlife up close, all year round.
The Bass Rock — in spring and summer this towering island turns white with around 150,000 gannets, an unforgettable sight.
Interactive exhibits — family-friendly displays about Scotland’s marine life and conservation work.
Rooftop and shoreline views — sweeping views across the Forth to the islands, with the chance to spot seabirds, seals and even passing dolphins or whales.
Boat trips — seasonal wildlife boat tours run from the harbour out to the Bass Rock and other islands (booked separately, weather permitting).

Best time to visit
The seabird breeding season from spring to late summer (roughly April to August) is the most dramatic, when the islands teem with gannets, puffins and other nesting birds. The live cameras and exhibits make it a rewarding visit at any time of year, including winter when seals and sea ducks are around.
Tickets and opening times
The Discovery Experience (exhibits and live cameras) is open year-round with an admission charge; as a conservation charity, your ticket supports its work. Boat trips are run by operators from the harbour and should be booked ahead in season. Check current hours before visiting, especially in winter.
How to get there
North Berwick is an easy day trip from Edinburgh — direct trains take around 30 minutes to North Berwick station, from which the Seabird Centre is a 10-minute walk down to the harbour. By car it’s about 45 minutes via the A1, with parking nearby. The pretty seaside town itself, with its beaches and the Law (a hill with great views), is well worth exploring.
Tips for visiting

Visit in late spring or summer for the full seabird spectacle on the Bass Rock.
Bring binoculars, though the live cameras get you closer than you could otherwise.
Combine it with a walk on North Berwick’s beaches or a climb up North Berwick Law.
Book boat trips in advance and dress warmly — it’s breezy on the water.

Frequently asked questions
What is the Scottish Seabird Centre?
It’s a wildlife visitor attraction and conservation charity in North Berwick, with live wildlife cameras, exhibits and boat trips focused on the seabird colonies of the Firth of Forth.
How do you get to the Scottish Seabird Centre from Edinburgh?
Take a direct train to North Berwick (about 30 minutes) and walk 10 minutes to the harbour, or drive (around 45 minutes via the A1).
When is the best time to visit?
Spring to late summer, during the seabird breeding season, when the Bass Rock is covered in gannets and puffins are nesting nearby.
Can you see puffins at the Scottish Seabird Centre?
Yes — puffins nest on the islands in late spring and summer and can be watched via the live cameras and on seasonal boat trips.
Is the Scottish Seabird Centre good for families?
Yes — the interactive cameras and exhibits are very family-friendly, and the harbour and beaches make for a great day out.