The Crown and Kitchen

With baskets of frothy flowers at the windows and a stately Georgian entrance, the Crown and Kitchen has real kerb appeal, matched by the tasteful interior. There’s a warmth to the grey wood-panelled walls, dried garlands and mismatched chairs in the dining room.

Owner Billy has been determined to make this a friendly local ever since taking the reins, so you’re as likely to be supping a pint next to one of the neighbours as dining alongside a party of walkers. The food is pub grub taken up a creative notch with dishes such as brisket and black pudding stovies, cullen skink with crispy egg and pea shoots, and steak frites.

Retro board games are ideal for waiting out any traffic jams or downpours, though if the fire is crackling you might not want to leave. If you really don’t want to, you’re in luck as there are five stylish bedrooms upstairs.

You can come off the road at either Haddington or West Barns and track the A1 to the next junction to avoid retracing your steps. If you’ve got time, consider a short detour to Tyninghame beach which is well-regarded and dog friendly.