Scone Spy: Whitekirk Hill, North Berwick

Some days, there’s nothing better to do than take a road trip and see where the miles take you.

And today feels like one of those days.

As autumn creeps in, it’s important to snatch all those daylight hours before the dark nights take hold and, with the sun showing its face today, I decide to head for the coast.

After all, why not squeeze in a last day at the beach before we’re turning on the heating and reaching for the thermals?

I wind up in picture-perfect North Berwick, a great spot to stop for the day.

A stroll along the beach with the wind in my hair stretches the old legs.

As I walk, the clouds seem to part and the sun shines down. It’s hot enough to lose the sweater and slip my shoes off for a paddle in the surprisingly warm water. I couldn’t have picked a better day if I tried.

After all the sea air I’m famished, so decide to hop back in the car and drive along the coast in search of a spot for a bite to eat.

Just a few miles out of town, I stumble upon Whitekirk Hill, a huge barn set back from the winding country road. Upon exploration, I discover it’s a multifunctional venture – gym, play barn, restaurant, cafe, spa and holiday village, all rolled into one.

I decide to try the orangery. With any luck they’ll have some scones. That would be the icing on the cake today.

Inside, it’s just like a barn – but a big, fancy one. Spacious with tall ceilings, trees and plants and a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, looking out to the countryside and blue skies beyond, it feels like the inside and outside collide in this tranquil country retreat.

I take a seat and browse the menu. I go for a cheese and pickle toastie. It’s delicious. Then, of course, I simply must scope out a scone. There is a choice of cheese and fruit – both freshly out of the oven. I choose fruit. It’s huge and, smothered in clotted cream and jam, delicious and perfectly baked. A cappuccino is the perfect accompaniment.

And with that, it’s time for the drive home before it gets dark. Summer is definitely over!

Scone score

Crumbly exterior and soft inside. Just perfect! 9/10