Explore Midlothian’s Art & Culture Attractions
Get ready to explore Midlothian’s cultural heartbeat! Hidden galleries, unique museums, community projects, and historic palaces brimming with stories are all waiting for you. In the latest Explore Midlothian video, lifestyle influencer Wendy H Gilmour takes you through the area’s most inspiring art and culture destinations.
Here’s a guide to each featured location and how you can enjoy them.
Cousland Smiddy
Where: Cousland village, Dalkeith, EH22 2NZ
What you can do:
- Visit a traditional cottage, blacksmith’s workshop and organic allotments at the heart of this Midlothian village.
- Learn about village history and local heritage through hands-on displays.
- See a Farrier & Blacksmith in actions with demonstrations of forge-work and craft tools
Cousland Smiddy connects heritage craft with personal storytelling. A real hidden gem in Midlothian.
Penicuik Papermaking Heritage Museum
Where: Penicuik, EH26 8LR
What you can do:
- Walk through exhibitions detailing the local papermaking industry over centuries.
- View original machinery and learn how the town of Penicuik grew around papermaking.
- Learn how paper is made with a hands-on demonstration.
The museum celebrates local industrial creativity through smart curation and community involvement. A great visit for the whole family.
One Dalkeith & Corner Shop Collective
Where: Dalkeith, EH22 1AG
What you can do:
- Browse The Corner Shop Collective and pick up gifts made by local artists and crafters.
- Participate in a rage of cultural and community events, talks, cinema nights and local markets hosted here.
- Find out more about what’s on in Dalkeith and how you can get involved with the local community.
One Dalkeith is Community Development Trust offering a lively cultural hub where contemporary art meets heartfelt community spirit.
Dalkeith Country Park
Where: Dalkeith, EH22 2NA
What you can do:
- Enjoy outdoor walks or cycles to take in the beauty of the park.
- Check out the range of events running in the wellbeing and fitness studio and the seasonal creative classes running for kids.
- Combine a walk with visiting the historic Dalkeith Palace also on site.
- Head to the award-winning restaurant, the Kitchen, shop in The Store or grab a hot drink and cake at The Coffee Bar.
Dalkeith Country Park balances artistic flair with open green space. Perfect for families and culture lovers alike.
Dalkeith Palace
Where: Dalkeith, Dalkeith Country Park, EH22 2NA
What you can do:
- Discover what is regarded as one of the grandest early classical houses in Scotland.
- Enjoy regular exhibitions showcasing artists work in a beautiful setting.
- Join guided tours or storytelling events that bring the Palace’s past to life.
The palace adds centuries-deep heritage drama to Midlothian’s cultural mix.
Ready to Explore?
From artisans forging heritage tools to modern artists exhibiting among palace ruins, Midlothian offers a rich tapestry of creativity and culture, all just a short trip from Edinburgh.
Plan your visit today and uncover everything our region has to offer - Explore Midlothian>>
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