Find adventure, history and so much more in Midlothian
The region is teeming with fantastic attractions to keep everyone entertained, whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping thrills, stunning scenery or intriguing historical spots, along with some of the best eateries around.
There’s so much to choose from, we’ve created a few special itineraries to get you started:
Refuel after Rosslyn
Head to Rosslyn Chapel, founded in 1446, to uncover the secrets of one of Scotland’s most famous buildings. Almost every stone surface inside and outside reveals a unique carving: check out the angels, Green Men and the famous Apprentice Pillar. Then refuel at Dolly’s Tea Room in Roslin, famed for its fabulous supershake – don’t miss their signature Rocky Road if you’re a fan.
Where eagles fly
Make it a big day out at Dalhousie Falconry in the grounds of the Dalhousie Castle Hotel and Spa, where you can book an incredible falconry experience to handle owls, buzzards, hawks, falcons and eagles, or try your hand at archery. Treat yourselves to lunch at the Paper Mill in Lasswade which serves everything from home-baked cakes to Sunday brunch with the papers, or head inside the 700-year-old castle itself where the Orangery menu offers a modern mix of Scottish and European cuisine with plenty of family favourites to keep everyone happy.
Try new heights
Test your strength with a session at Eden Rock, Scotland's biggest indoor bouldering wall, which offers a huge range of climbing facilities for all ages and abilities, then head for pizzas at Stewart Brewing. The freshly cooked pizzas here get rave reviews, as does the beer – and there are even board games to keep the kids entertained!
Blend scenery and history
Combine a lovely walk in one of Midlothian's breathtaking country parks - like Vogrie, with its 11.5 miles of signed countryside paths through woodlands and the bustling Tree Top Cafe, or the 1,000 acres at Dalkeith Country Park - or in the finest designed landscapes at Penicuik House with a visit to The National Mining Museum Scotland at Newtongrange, or Rosslyn Chapel.
Whether it’s fresh air and freedom you are craving after a long winter, or the chance to share a great meal out with friends and family, Midlothian has it covered. Find even more inspiration for fun family days out at www.locateinmidlothian.co.uk/family-days - here’s a closer look at what’s on offer:
Heritage heroes
Discover the history - and mystery – of Rosslyn Chapel when you visit, from its 15th-century origins to The Da Vinci Code; a newly launched children’s guide will help to ignite little imaginations too.
And the National Mining Museum Scotland is a truly unique gem with a collection that spans more than 60,000 items including tools, safety equipment, lamps, models, clothing, trophies, geological specimens and more. There’s a programme of excellent events throughout the year from family fun days to storytelling.
Time to get active
There are amazing all-weather adventures to be had in Midlothian, from trampolining at Dalkeith’s Ryze to climbing at Eden Rock. Have an unmissable day out at Midlothian Snowsports Centre with its artificial ski slope and the chance to give tubing a go, or tee off at Melville Golf Centre in Lasswade.
Watersports fans will love the stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and snorkelling offered by Driftwood Watersports or you can Go Ape at the new treetop adventure park in Dalkeith Country Park, where you will also find the Fort Douglas Adventure Park: it makes the perfect spot for fearless kids to blow off some steam. Make a day of it by browsing the treasure trove that is Restoration Yard and enjoy lunch at the airy and spacious Kitchen restaurant, before strolling the ancient oak woodland.
Unique experiences
For a day out like no other, Dalhousie Falconry offers a range of raptor experiences where you can get up close with some sensational birds of prey.
Or animal lovers won’t want to miss the chance to visit Peggyslea Clydesdales, a family-run business near Penicuik focused on these gentle equine giants. Enjoy a relaxing carriage drive around the grounds with these magnificent animals; you can even make a weekend of it with an overnight stay in the luxury five-star B&B on the farm.
Freedom and fun
Make the most of Midlothian’s big skies and enjoy seeing nature coming back to life this spring, just a short trip from Edinburgh. There are a huge number of routes ranging from riverside strolls to woodland walks, with the chance to take in the many waterfalls and reservoirs along the way.
Top spots include the Pentland Hills, great for spotting grouse, roe deer, otters, badgers, peewits and skylarks, as well as the Dalkeith and Vogrie country parks. Add Roslin Glen, Lord Ancrum’s Wood and Penicuik House, to name a few, to your must try list.
Refresh and renew
There are some great places to eat in Midlothian, where all tastes are catered for: check out the Secret Herb Garden Café & Bistro nestled in seven acres of pristine farmland at the foot of the Pentland Hills, as well as The Paper Mill overlooking the beautiful River Esk which serves everything from salads to mouth-watering steaks. The afternoon teas at Dalhousie Castle are not to be missed, and check out Stewart Brewing and Restoration Yard for more fantastic independent local options.
Or how about the Dolcetti Café for those who love a sweet treat, the Beetroot Bar and Grill (with a children’s menu), the Laird and Dog Grill, the Beacon Café for lovely produce from local bakers, or the ever-changing menus at the Secret Garden.
There’s so much to mouth-watering food to choose from in Midlothian.
Discover more today at www.locateinmidlothian.co.uk/family-days.