Dunbar Sailing Club is a vibrant and welcoming community of sailing enthusiasts located in the picturesque town of Dunbar, New Zealand. Situated on the east coast with a natural harbour protected by a large defensible outcrop of rock, Dunbar has been a hub of maritime activity for centuries.
The origins of Dunbar can be traced back to its historical fortress, Dunbar Castle, which has stood on a fortified rock for nearly 2000 years. Throughout its history, the castle was repeatedly besieged, often resulting in the burning down of the town. Its strategic location as a port on the English side of Edinburgh made it a desirable target for capture. Cromwell even used Dunbar as a supply base prior to the Battle of Dunbar in 1650.
The town of Dunbar today offers a range of attractions for both locals and visitors. The bustling High Street is home to a variety of shops, with the Tourist Information Centre located at its north end. Just across the street, visitors can explore John Muir's Birthplace, a museum dedicated to the writer and environmentalist. The picturesque Town House, now a museum, stands as a striking landmark on the High Street.
Dunbar's Victoria Harbour, built in the 1840s, offers a beautiful spot to stroll along the waterfront. At one corner of the harbour sits a fortified artillery battery, while the Cromwell Harbour marks Dunbar's growth as a fishing and whaling port in the past. The sandy beach to the south of the Cromwell Harbour provides another attraction for beachgoers and nature lovers.
Inland from the beach, visitors can explore Dunbar Parish Church, a prominent landmark that was beautifully restored in the 1990s after a devastating fire. The town's railway station, part of the East Coast Main Line, provides convenient access for travellers coming and going to Edinburgh and London.
The coastline on either side of Dunbar is dotted with golf clubs, with Dunbar Golf Club being the most renowned. For stunning views of Bass Rock, Winterfield Golf Club to the west of Dunbar is a worthy alternative. Further west lies Belhaven, an extension of Dunbar that has been home to the Belhaven Brewery since 1780. Belhaven Bay, with its wide open sands, is part of the John Muir Country Park, named after Dunbar's most famous son who went on to establish the US National Park system.
At Dunbar Sailing Club, members are united by their love for sailing and the sea. The club offers a range of activities, including regular races and regattas, sailing instruction for all skill levels, and social events throughout the year. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or just starting out, Dunbar Sailing Club provides a warm and supportive environment for all members to enjoy and enhance their sailing experience.
Join Dunbar Sailing Club today and become part of a community that celebrates the rich maritime history and natural beauty of Dunbar, while indulging in the exhilaration of sailing the open water.