Doors open on Midlothian’s heritage on September 9

Discover buildings and spaces not normally open to the public as Midlothian once again takes part in Scotland’s annual Doors Open Days.

Largest free festival

Doors Open Days is Scotland’s largest free festival celebrating Scotland’s places, history and culture – old and new.

20 venues taking part

On Saturday 9 September, 20 venues in Midlothian will be open to the public free of charge, including three new additions – the historic Penicuik North Kirk, One Dalkeith, the regeneration charity offering business and community facilities in the heart of the town, and The Salon, run by Midlothian Third Sector Interface, 4-6 White Hart Street, Dalkeith.

Firm favourites

Other attractions include grand properties such as Arniston House and Mavisbank House and churches including St Mary’s Episcopal Church in Dalkeith, and Cockpen and Carrington Church.

Rich history

Midlothian’s rural and industrial heritage is celebrated at the National Mining Museum Scotland, and at Cousland Smiddy and Heritage Hub, while Dalkeith Museum gives visitors a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past, from Roman times to the present day. You can also visit the living museum that is the Pen-y-coe Press and Papermaking Heritage Centre in Penicuik, to learn about the town’s papermaking past.

Visit Penicuik Town Hall

The restored Penicuik Town Hall built by the papermaking Cowan family in 1894, will also highlight the work of the Penicuik Heritage Regeneration Project, along with details of the town’s history with the help of Penicuik Historical Society.

Masonic lodges

There’s a chance too, to see inside one of the oldest masonic lodges in existence at Dalkeith, as well as the Lodge at Loanhead, which has been active since 1876.

Great for hobby enthusiasts

Thistle Modelmakers in Mayfield will be displaying their model railway layouts from around the world, or you can call in on Midlothian Camera Club in Lasswade to see their fascinating photography exhibition.

Bring the kids

Dalkeith Community Fire Station will also be open, with an equipment demonstration and the chance for the kids to climb on board a real fire engine, while at Vogrie, you can visit the Wildlife Information Centre to learn about their wildlife surveys and how to take part.

New addition

This year new addition The Salon will have tours, free coffees, teas and cakes and information about volunteering for those interested.

Something for everyone

“Midlothian Doors Open Day is a great opportunity for locals and visitors to learn more about our area’s proud heritage, its historic buildings and stunning landscape,” said Midlothian Council Leader, Councillor Kelly Parry. “With the help of local organisations, property owners and visitor attractions, we’ve been able to put together a varied programme with something for every age and interest.”

The full Midlothian Doors Open Day 2023 programme

Doors Open Days takes place throughout Scotland and is part of European Heritage Days. Information about the national programme, including what is on in Midlothian, can be found on the Doors Open Days website. For information on what’s happening in Midlothian you can also visit the official Facebook page.

Book now for One Dalkeith tours

You can book on Eventbrite to tour the facilities and hear more about One Dalkeith, a community hub at the heart of Dalkeith.