What will you discover in Midlothian?
Midlothian has a rich and varied history, with plenty of mystery packed in as well. Take a look at our top attractions that are sure to inspire and intrigue.
Rosslyn Chapel was founded in 1446 and is one of Scotland’s most famous buildings.
Practically every stone surface inside and outside this unique building is carved in an outstanding display of craftsmanship and includes the Chapel’s angels, Green Men and the famous Apprentice Pillar.
Discover the Chapel’s history – and mystery – when you visit. The visitor centre tells the Chapel’s story from its 15th century origins to The Da Vinci Code and beyond! Plus they there's a fantastic gift shop and coffee shop to enjoy.
Rosslyn Chapel is easy to reach by bus and there's free car parking on site and access to electric vehicle charging points.
Kids Activities
Rosslyn Chapel provide quiz and activity sheets for kids and they'll be launching a new children’s guide early in 2022.
Opening Hours November to end March
Open monday - Saturday from 9am and from 12 noon Sunday.
90 minute visiting timeslots start at 9am, 10.40 am, 12.20pm, 2pm and 3.40pm Monday - Saturday and at 12pm, 1.40pm and 3.20pn on Sundays.
For full up to date opening times see their website
Family Pricing
Free admission for children in family groups
Book your tickets for Rosslyn Chapel >>
Close by places
On Rosslyn Chapel's doorstep you'll find Dolly’s Tearoom for amazing Supershakes and The Original Rosslyn Inn for great lunches in a cosy bar.
Roslin Glen and Nature Reserve are next to Rosslyn Chapel and perfect for running free and enjoying lovely woodland and riverside walks in peaceful nature.
The National Mining Museum Scotland is set in the wonderfully restored Lady Victoria Colliery, and tells the story of coal for Scotland.
Discover the miners’ way of life through two floors of exhibitions (with fun family activities for kids!) and a tour of the pithead, recreated underground and coalface with an ex-miner guide. Marvel at the sheer size of the place, be astounded by the engineering brilliance behind all the machinery and retrace the footsteps and struggles of the thousands of miners and their families before them.
The National Mining Museum Scotland is easy to reach by bus and train and has free car parking on site.
You can also enjoy coffee or lunch in the café and take a browse around the gift shop.
Opening Hours November to end March
Open daily from 10am – 4pm
Book your tickets for The National Mining Museum Scotland>>
Discover more about this fantastic attraction>>
Close by places
The Sun Inn is perfect for family meals, brunches, coffees and everything in between!
Gore Glen Woodland Park and Nature Reserve is great to explore as a family.
Ryze Trampoline Park is a great spot for indoor activity if you need to escape the Scottish weather!
Dalkeith Museum is housed in the Corn Exchange on Dalkeith High St. The collection reflects the varied history of the town and how it has changed over centuries.
A whinestone head, believed to be Roman, is its oldest artefact and there are other reminders of Dalkeith’s interesting past through two world wars, as a hub to the railways that serviced the coal industry and as a vibrant market town home to the largest Corn Exchange in Scotland.
There’s more to Dalkeith than meets the eye! Find out more of the local history and mystery on a visit.
Opening Hours November to end March
Open on Wednesdays only 11am – 3pm
Book your visit to Dalkeith Museum today>>
Close by Places
Dalkeith Country Park with food, shopping and adventures for the kids is nearby to continue the fun.
Dalkeith has lots of brilliant local places to eat including Itihaas Indian Restaurant, The Cavaliere Italian, and The Kitchen at Restoration Yard. There's lots to choose from so see our eating and drinking guide to find your lunch stop.
From the Orangerie in Dalkeith Country Park through to the Dalkeith Watch Tower and the Water Tower, there are significant historic buildings that reflect the town’s colourful past. Enjoy the suggested walking tour linked below and uncover intriguing hidden histories and clues as you go.
Explore Dalkeith and its fascinating history>>
Close by Places
Melville Golf Centre is great for some family fun - try out their Toptracer Golf Range.
Discover Lord Ancrum’s Wood in the grounds of Newbattle Abbey. This wonderful native woodland is situated on the banks of the River South Esk and has lots of paths for beautiful walks.
Cousland Smiddy gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into Cousland village's heritage, with an early 18th century blacksmith’s workshop, Victorian cottage, and recreational spaces to enjoy.
It is believe there has been a continuously working Smiddy on this site in the village since at least 1703. Farrier Sean Broadfoot demonstrates the ancient craft during advertised open days.
Cousland Heritage Hub holds the archive of the village of Cousland, family histories, maps, photographs and artefacts. Archaeological digs reveal the village to date back over 4000 years and has been part of many major events in Scottish history.
Opening Hours
Reopening on 7th May
Find opening times and information on when the Farrier will be working on site>>
Plan your visit to Cousland Smiddy>>
Close by Places
Find great places to eat in nearby Dalkeith>>
Midlothian Family Days has been created by Midlothian Tourism Forum. Midlothian Tourism Forum brings together the wide range of businesses making up Midlothian’s vibrant tourism sector. This includes attractions, transport, accommodation, venues, retail, hospitality, events and festivals, all of which contribute to putting Midlothian on the map.
For any queries please email liz@midlothiantourismforum.co.uk
