Scotland's Golden Coast
Series 1 & 2
Duration: 10 x 60'
Contact SalesThis warm, uplifting series travels along Scotland’s Golden Coast, uncovering pristine beaches, rich wildlife, heritage and endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Undiscovered by many, Scotland’s east coast is wild, rugged and sublimely beautiful. Stretching from the Moray Firth in the north to the southern shores of East Lothian lies one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets; a spectacular coastline of sweeping beaches, historic harbours and picture-perfect fishing villages.
From those who farm its land and fish its waters, to the artists, adventurers, entrepreneurs and custodians inspired by its shores, we celebrate the people who give Scotland’s Golden Coast its unique character.
With stunning sights at every turn, Scotland’s Golden Coast might just leave you wanting to pack a bag and head east.
Series 1:
Episode 1:
Our journey along Scotland’s spectacular east coast begins at beautiful Lunan Bay, where a campervan adventure to discover some of the coast’s most remarkable lighthouses gets underway with friends Eileen and Jan, and Labrador Saffy along for the ride.
At Tentsmuir Forest, in Fife, forester Paige is helping the vast coastal forest recover from the devastation of Storm Arwen, while photographer Kuljit shares the magic of its shifting landscape with son Uday.
Across the Firth of Forth in North Berwick, a bustling clifftop café offers homemade treats with spectacular sea views. At the helm are fourth generation farmer Stuart and wife Jo, who balance busy café life with the demands of the family farm.
Further north in Aberdeenshire, at historic Buchan Ness Lighthouse, former NHS therapist turned retained lightkeeper Pamela climbs 166 steps to help keep its vital beacon shining out to sea. At the extraordinary Rattray Head, Eileen and Jan continue their quest to tick off the east coast’s remarkable lighthouses.
And back in the magical surroundings of Tentsmuir Forest, riding instructor Laura reveals why exploring its woodland on horseback and galloping along the dunes can be good for both people and ponies.
Episode 2:
On the golden sands of Elie in Fife, one of the world’s most unusual cricket clubs prepares for its first match of the season. With the tide out and the pitch ready, Ship Inn landlords Rachel and Graham face old rivals Kilmacolm in a fiercely fought contest where the rules are quirky, the refreshments plentiful and bragging rights are at stake.
Further north, Stonehaven’s much-loved Art Deco outdoor pool is preparing to open its doors for another summer. After months of hard work, chairman Steve and an army of dedicated volunteers race to put the finishing touches to this historic seaside institution before the first swimmers arrive.
And on the dramatic coastline near Dunbar lies Siccar Point, the birthplace of modern geology. Here, geologist Angus prepares to open the new Deep Time Trail, celebrating the extraordinary discovery made by James Hutton more than 200 years ago. As its first international visitors arrive, an emotional pilgrimage brings them face-to-face with the rocks that changed our understanding of the Earth forever.
Episode 3:
Five miles off Scotland’s east coast, the magical Isle of May comes alive as hundreds of thousands of seabirds return for the breeding season. Reserve manager David and his team watch over this extraordinary colony, from counting nesting birds to braving protective Arctic terns. And as summer draws to a close, they help some tiny pufflings take an unforgettable first flight out to sea.
In Angus, the historic Caledonian Railway offers a nostalgic journey through the countryside aboard lovingly restored trains. Young operations director Ranald and a close-knit band of volunteers prepare for a busy afternoon tea service, where keeping the cakes and passengers steady is all part of the challenge.
Further north, tucked away at the mouth of Aberdeen harbour, the historic fishing village of Footdee has retained a character all of its own. Paddleboard instructor Campbell takes to the water to reveal a different side of the Granite City, before returning home to a colourful community where impromptu gatherings and a warm welcome keep Footdee’s neighbourly spirit alive.
Episode 4:
Along the dramatic red sandstone cliffs of Arbroath, a hidden world of sea caves is waiting to be explored. Local adventurer Cameron takes a group of kayakers beneath the ancient cliffs, through emerald waters and into spectacular caverns, before swapping his paddle for a place aboard Arbroath’s lifeboat as he trains as Navigator with the volunteer crew.
In picturesque Crail, one of Scotland’s oldest harbour villages, Nick and Damon are breathing new life into a historic hotel. With a wealth of local produce on their doorstep, the couple prepare for a busy service before bringing locals and visitors together for a lively night of traditional music.
Further south, the colourful beach huts of Coldingham Bay provide the backdrop for a bracing dip with Sharron, Linzi and the Brave Bayers, while the local RNLI lifeguards put their rescue skills to the test.
And on the beautiful Fife coast, retirement has opened up a world of new adventures for couple Andy and Sharon. While Sharon captures the coastline in watercolour, Andy takes to the skies for a bird’s eye view of the place they love to call home.
Episode 5:
From the historic harbour at Wick, one of Scotland’s oldest surviving fishing boats sets sail on a special voyage. Skipper Malcolm and first mate Alan take the beautifully restored Isabella Fortuna along the Moray coast to Portsoy’s traditional boat festival, navigating the North Sea and a tricky harbour entrance before sharing this remarkable piece of fishing heritage with a new generation.
At Chanonry Point, the spectacular Moray Firth provides one of Europe’s best vantage points for bottlenose dolphins. Wildlife photographer Charlie has spent more than 30 years documenting them and is joined by lifelong dolphin adopter Lillian as she hopes to catch a precious glimpse of Rainbow, the dolphin she first fell in love with as a child.
On the shores of East Lothian, a much-loved family ice cream business takes its extraordinary vintage Rolls Royce van to North Berwick, where cousins Yolanda and Michael tempt seaside visitors with a brand new exotic flavour.
And in beautiful Elie Bay, local resident Judith welcomes guests to her waterside sauna for an invigorating evening of sea dips, aromatic steam and a glorious coastal sunset.
Series 2 coming soon...
For Channel 4
