Get out and about in Midlothian
Our choice of top walks and nature places for your family adventures this season, plus get up close with birds of prey and Owls at Dalhousie Falconry!
Please be respectful while out walking in the countryside and leave no trace. Enjoy Scotland’s outdoors responsibly.
Vogrie Country Park has 11.5 miles of signed paths through woodlands and the Tyne Valley plus its own Treetops café, a golf course and an adventure playground. It is a great place for a play, a run around and fun all year round. Freedom –nature - fun
Discover Vogrie Country Park>>
Close by Places
Soutra Coffee House in Pathhead is a great spot to stop for a cuppa and some lunch.
Roslin Glen is a great atmospheric Midlothian place for a wander in nature. Romantic ruins and a woodland glen are the attractions here, not to mention the 15th century Rosslyn Chapel where this walk begins.
Follow the path from the chapel down to Roslin Castle, which dates from 1304. Follow riverside paths along the River North Esk in either direction to enjoy the wildlife and peaceful setting.
Family walks – great for parents and kids
Plan your walk in Roslin Glen>>
Public Transport
Good bus service from Edinburgh and information on Rosslyn Chapel Website
Close by Places
Gore Glen is a woodland Trust Walk. Enjoy panoramic views of the Pentland Hills. Explore mature woodlands, riverside and pond views or enjoy the peace and tranquillity.
If you're feeling active, try the 8 mile walk by the bank of a small river, through woods and up and down short hills.
Public Transport
Regular train and bus services travel through Gorebridge, a short walk from Gore Glen
Close by Places
Lord Ancrum’s Wood sits on the edge of Newbattle Abbey College. Cross the bridge into this ancient woodland and enjoy this green and lush space.
Running through the wood is the South Esk River which flows under a stunning 15th stone bridge. Lord Ancrum’s Wood Is home to several exciting features including an ice house, a carved gateway and the ‘cavern’ known as the ‘priest hole’. It’s eerie enough for the imagination to go wild and the ancient trees are amazing.
Public Transport
Border Buses, Lothian Buses and the Tweedbank line train from Edinburgh all stop in Newtongrange.
Close by Places
Glencorse Reservoir is a lovely walk with rewarding views. There is many a great reservoir walk in the Pentlands and Glencorse is a nice easy one to do with your family. It’s along one path, up a wee slope and a good dose of fresh air is guaranteed. Beautiful at this time of year for the changing light and colours. Download a kids’ mystery trail to follow to keep them busy. Parking is available at Flotterstone.
Download a kids' Mystery trail>>
Find more information on local family walks in Midlothian>>
Walking safely in the Pentland Hills>>
Close by Places
Dalhousie Falconry is unique and various experiences are available including new children’s activities for age 12 and under. Meet owls and raptors in this beautiful setting of Dalhousie Castle Estate. Meet an owl up close and get the opportunity to fly a bird under instruction. See their faces light up with such an extraordinary and special experience.
Book your experience at Dalhousie Falconry>>
Close by Places
Dalhousie Castle, with its choice of restaurants and the Orangery with plenty of family favourites.
Dalkeith Country Park is a very special place for nature and freedom. There’s over 1,000 acres to explore, Fort Douglas adventure park to play in, Restoration Yard to eat, shop and relax in and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy some fresh air. Take in the stunning nature including the SSSI Old Oak Wood and views of our beautiful architecture including Dalkeith Palace, Montagu Bridge and the 18th Century Orangerie while enjoying one of our waymarked walks or cycle routes.
Lots of opportunity for wildlife spotting, a run around and something tasty to eat.
Plan your visit to Dalkeith Country Park>>
Public Transport
Regular buses from Edinburgh travel through Dalkeith
Penicuik Paper Trail is an easy walking route linking the town of Penicuik with the beautiful estate of Penicuik House. Riverside and woodland pathways. Some fascinating places to explore including the ponds, lost garden and the ruins.
Route to include Low Pond via River North Esk, Penicuik House park, Knight’s Law Tower, Spear Gate Lodge and the Town of Penicuik
Public Transport
Buses travel to Penicuik where this walk begins
Close by Places
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
