Life in Longniddry: A Growing Coastal Community with Heart
25 March 2026
Tucked along the beautiful East Lothian coastline and just a short hop from Edinburgh, Longniddry offers the best of both worlds: peaceful coastal living with the convenience of city access. With its sandy beaches, friendly atmosphere, and leafy surroundings, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy the simple pleasures of village life.
Whether you’re someone who loves a bracing walk along the shore or prefers a countryside ramble through open fields, Longniddry has a way of making everyone feel at home. It’s no surprise that families, retirees, and commuters alike are drawn to its relaxed charm.
Meet the Residents: Miles & Craig Newton‑Higgins
Among the many people who have recently made Longniddry their home are Miles (41) and Craig (55) Newton‑Higgins, along with their two beloved cats - Chester, a sprightly 13‑year‑old, and Noah‑Blue, their 12‑year‑old ragdoll.
Before settling in Longniddry, the couple lived in the historic Saltoun Hall in Pencaitland - a Grade A listed castle divided into nine flats. While the setting was undeniably grand, they longed for something more personal: a private garden, their own back door, and a home that didn’t involve shared facilities or communal living.
In May 2025, they made the move to Longniddry, drawn not only by its coastal charm but also by family connections - relatives living on Douglas Road had already introduced them to the area. They found their perfect home at the Longniddry Village development and found the whole buying process really easy.
Today, Miles works as a mental health nurse and Craig as a chef, both contributing to the community in their own meaningful ways.
The Longniddry Village Development: More Than Just New Homes
Miles and Craig now live in the Longniddry Village Development, a thoughtfully designed extension of the existing village that has quickly become a vibrant and integral part of the community. This isn’t your typical new-build estate. From the beginning, the development has been shaped around people prioritising walkability, green spaces, community connection, and sustainable growth.
What’s emerging is a living, breathing village-within-a-village, where residents feel rooted and connected. The design encourages neighbours to meet, local businesses to thrive, and community life to flourish.
A Year of Growth: New Local Businesses Opening Their Doors
Over the past year, Longniddry has welcomed a wave of new independent businesses that are helping to shape a true village centre. These additions aren’t just convenient - they’re becoming social hubs, places where residents can grab a coffee, pick up essentials, or simply bump into familiar faces.
This growth is helping Longniddry evolve into a more self‑sustaining community, where daily life can be lived locally. It’s exactly the kind of development that strengthens the village’s identity while supporting the needs of its growing population.
What’s Next for Longniddry?
The story doesn’t end here. With more phases planned, Longniddry Village is set to continue expanding in thoughtful, community‑minded ways. Future developments promise additional homes, more green spaces, and further opportunities for local businesses to take root.
For anyone considering a move to East Lothian or simply dreaming of a life where the sea is just a stroll away, Longniddry is becoming an increasingly appealing choice. It’s a place where new beginnings feel natural, where community spirit is strong, and where the future looks bright.
If you’re curious about what’s available, you can explore the new houses for sale in East Lothian at Longniddry Village, where modern living meets coastal charm.