Newbridge: Waves and Archaeological Traces Through Time

Newbridge combines archaeological traces through time with an active counterpoint: South Platt Hill is home to Lost Shore Surf Resort, where the size, power and shape of the waves can be adjusted. Royal Highland Show and the climbing facilities at EICA Ratho are also worth considering as separate themes when planning your trip. When looking for holiday accommodation, it helps to first decide on the main reason for your trip: local history, waves, climbing or a specific events programme.

Huly Hill and Newbridge’s Long History

Huly Hill lies southwest of Newbridge roundabout and is a designated Scheduled Monument. Excavations in Newbridge uncovered activity dating from the Middle Bronze Age to the medieval period. A section of a Roman road was also identified during the excavations. It is likely to form the western continuation of Dere Street between Inveresk and Carriden.

These finds offer two different historical perspectives: a broad span from the Middle Bronze Age to the medieval period, and a specific but tentative interpretation of the Roman road. Those interested in history can therefore connect Newbridge not just with a single era, but with a long succession of human activity. The possible road link also takes the view beyond the town, towards Inveresk and Carriden.

Waves, Woodland and Climbing

At Lost Shore Surf Resort, the size, power and shape of the waves can be adjusted. In addition to surfing, the resort offers access to woodland and walking paths along the canal. These paths offer a different way to spend your time than the adjustable waves. Access arrangements may change; check before your visit if you plan to explore the woodland or paths.

EICA Ratho is a separate focus for climbing. Clip n Climb there offers 18 climbing elements and 22 climbing routes. EICA Ratho is Europe’s largest indoor climbing centre. The activities are therefore quite distinct: Lost Shore focuses on adjustable wave characteristics and paths along the canal, while Clip n Climb offers indoor climbing elements and routes. The facilities may change over time.

Royal Highland Centre and Royal Highland Show

Royal Highland Centre is on Glasgow Road (A8), between Newbridge roundabout and the A8 roundabout for the airport. The Royal Highland Show is held at Royal Highland Centre in Ingliston, Edinburgh. The show’s Countryside Area features demonstrations and events covering a wide range of field sports, activities and rural skills. The programme and event dates vary from year to year; individual demonstrations and displays may change.

If the Royal Highland Show is the reason for your trip, check the dates and programme for the relevant year before finalising your accommodation dates. This allows you to plan around the specific event period rather than assuming the programme stays the same.

Choosing the Right Focus for Your Trip

When looking for holiday accommodation, it helps to first decide what you want your stay to centre on. Huly Hill and the archaeological finds represent Newbridge’s traces through history; at Lost Shore, waves, woodland and walks along the canal can be considered as different interests. The Show, meanwhile, adds an event date that depends on the year to your plans. EICA Ratho adds indoor climbing to the options. Compare these themes according to your reason for travelling and the relevant schedule before choosing where to stay.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Ratho, Queensferry, Leith, Currie

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