The Melville Inn
Melville Nurseries, Lasswade EH18 1AR, United Kingdom
Midlothian Travel Guide 2026: Top Cities, Places to Visit & Itineraries | Trip.com
Midlothian
Popular destinations
Roslin
Rosslyn Chapel, Roslin Glen Country Park, Rosslyn Castle
Dalkeith
Dalkeith Country Park, Ninja Kidz Action Park Edinburgh, Fort Douglas Adventure Park
Pathhead
Crichton Castle, Soutra Aisle, Preston Hall
Milton Bridge
Glencorse Golf Club, Glencorse Old Kirk
North Middleton
Polton
Springfield Mill
Cousland
Lasswade
Melville Golf Centre, Trackman Range, Kings Acre Golf Course, King George V Park
Must-try food in Midlothian
Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Midlothian dishes and foodie spots.
Western cuisine
Bars/bistros
Quick bites
Recent events and experiences in Midlothian
Traveller photos and experiences
Dalhousie castle
The decoration of this castle is very gorgeous and magnificent. Each restaurant inside has its own characteristics and is carefully decorated. It is located about half an hour's drive from the city. The hotel offers spa and owl-playing activities, but unfortunately my reservation was full that day so I didn't participate.
Autumn in Auld Reekie: A Journey Through Edinburgh’s Fall Colors
I share my travel experience to everyone who dreams of experiencing Scotland in its most magical, amber-hued season. Wandering through Edinburgh during autumn feels like stepping directly into a living fairytale. The crisp October air brings out a rich palette of deep crimson, fiery orange, and golden amber, framing the historic stone architecture in every direction. My adventure began strolling down the rain-glistening steps near Edinburgh Castle, where fallen leaves created a colorful carpet underfoot and the dramatic fortress towered above framed by golden foliage. Princes Street Gardens offers an incredible vantage point, but walking along the Water of Leith toward Dean Village felt like unlocking a secret storybook town. The historic red-sandstone buildings and picturesque stone bridges wrapped in turning ivy make every turn completely spellbinding. If you are looking for hidden spots away from the usual crowds, I cannot recommend Carlowrie Castle and the surrounding historic chapels enough. Seeing a Scottish castle or church completely engulfed in vibrant, crimson-red ivy leaves contrast against gray stone is an unforgettable sight. A great local tip for taking photos is to explore right after a light autumn shower. The wet cobblestones reflect the dramatic autumn sky and vivid tree canopies, creating a Moody, romantic vibe that captures Edinburgh’s authentic spirit. For a quiet, relaxing afternoon, head up toward the Royal Botanic Garden or wander the peaceful paths near Rosslyn Chapel, where towering ancient trees shed brilliant leaves over centuries-old stonework. To get the most out of your autumn escape, pack a cozy trench coat, bring a sturdy umbrella, and wear comfortable walking boots for navigating wet stone steps and leafy park trails. End your autumn walks by ducking into a warm, wood-paneled pub along the Royal Mile or near Circus Lane for a hot spiced cider or a hearty Scottish meal. Watching the amber light fade over the city spires while warm pub lights begin to glow across the mist is pure magic. Edinburgh in the fall captures a cozy warmth unlike anywhere else, making it an absolute bucket-list destination for leaf-peepers and cozy travel lovers alike. #AutumnInEdinburgh #EdinburghTravel #ScotlandInAutumn #FallColors #ExploreScotland #DeanVillage #EdinburghCastle #TravelStory #Wanderlust #fallcolors
Unforgettable Private Tour with Paul King
We embarked on an 8-day/7-night private tour with Paul King as a group of three, traveling through Edinburgh, Fort William, the Isle of Skye, and Inverness. The experience was unforgettable. Paul ensured our trip was stress-free, comfortable, personalized, and filled with fun. The pace was ideal—busy days, but never overwhelming. His deep knowledge of Scottish history, engaging stories, and passionate stance on Scottish independence brought the country to life for us. With his down-to-earth nature, humor, and enjoyable company, he made our journey truly special. Paul was highly punctual, flexible, and attentive to our needs. My husband faces balance challenges, and Paul took care to avoid spots with difficult stairs and uneven steps. He accommodated bathroom breaks seamlessly and ensured we never felt rushed or burdened. His thoughtfulness extended to managing our itinerary around the weather, maximizing the enjoyment of each day. Traveling in Paul's spacious and luxurious Mercedes van was a pleasure, and his excellent driving skills on Scotland's narrow single-track roads made us feel safe and relaxed. Paul frequently went above and beyond, guiding us to hidden Highland gems, a delightful yarn shop off the beaten path, authentic local lunch spots, and even driving us to dinner in Portree when taxis weren’t available. On one of our free days in Edinburgh, he generously offered to take us to Rosslyn Chapel. This wasn't a standard cookie-cutter tour—Paul tailored each day to our preferences and made the journey extraordinary. The collection of cherished memories he helped us create is unforgettable. We were genuinely reluctant for the trip to end and wish Paul offered tours in other countries! We highly recommend Paul King without reservation.
4 Incredible Places Near Edinburgh That Feel Worlds Away
Edinburgh is spectacular. But here’s a little secret: some of the most memorable places around the city aren’t actually in the city at all. Drive for half an hour or so and the scenery begins to change. Medieval ruins appear among green fields, dramatic coastlines open onto the North Sea and quiet hills stretch towards the horizon. If you have a spare day in Edinburgh, these four places are worth escaping the city for. 1. North Berwick Start by heading east towards the coast. North Berwick is the kind of seaside town that immediately makes you slow down. There’s a beautiful harbour, sandy beaches, little cafés and enormous views across the Firth of Forth. But the real star is Bass Rock, rising dramatically from the sea offshore. On a clear day, it looks almost like a giant piece of Scotland has been dropped into the water. Walk along the coast, explore the harbour and, if you have time, head towards nearby Tantallon Castle for one of the most dramatic coastal views in East Lothian. 2. Rosslyn Chapel Then head south towards something completely different. Rosslyn Chapel looks like it belongs in a fantasy novel. Built in the 15th century, the small stone chapel is covered with incredibly detailed carvings. Look closely and you’ll find animals, plants, symbols and mysterious details carved into the stone. The atmosphere inside is wonderfully atmospheric. Whether or not you believe the legends surrounding the chapel, there’s no denying that it feels like a place with secrets. 3. Cramond Island For something a little more adventurous, head towards Cramond. At low tide, a causeway stretches across the water towards Cramond Island, allowing you to walk across to explore the shoreline and remnants of its military history. But check the tide times carefully before going. The causeway disappears beneath the water when the tide comes in, and you definitely don’t want your relaxing day trip turning into an unexpected swim back to Edinburgh. When the conditions are right, though, it’s a brilliant little adventure. 4. Pentland Hills Finally, leave the coast behind and head into the hills. The Pentland Hills feel surprisingly wild considering how close they are to Edinburgh. Walking trails lead through open countryside, past reservoirs and across hills with sweeping views back towards the city. Go around sunset if you can. As the light fades across the hills, Edinburgh begins to appear in the distance, and you suddenly realise just how close you still are to the capital. That’s what makes these places so special. You don’t need to travel hours from Edinburgh to find adventure. Sometimes, all it takes is a short journey in the right direction. One day you’re exploring a historic capital. The next, you’re standing beside a Scottish coastline, walking across an island or looking over endless green hills. And honestly, that’s the Edinburgh trip I’d choose. #travel2026#travel#couplestrip#staycation#thingstodo#myitinerary#citydaytours
🏰✨ Review of mysterious landmarks near Edinburgh
📍 Rosslyn Chapel 🧭 A magical old chapel built in 1446 by the Sinclair family, and still used for religious ceremonies today. ✨ The interior is filled with incredibly detailed stone carvings, masterpieces of art, with many strange symbols, giving rise to numerous mysteries. It's famous for being a key setting in The Da Vinci Code. 👉 But! Historians confirm that most of the Knights Templar/Holy Grail stories are “fiction.” 😄 💸 Entrance fee (approximate update): Adults ~ £12 (~550 THB) Children free 📸 Quiet, mystical, beautiful lighting. The details are so numerous you can admire every corner. I can honestly say it's “small but incredibly magnificent.” ⚠️ Important! ❌ No photography inside. It gets quite crowded, especially for those interested in the Da Vinci Code. About 1–1.5 hours is a good amount of time to visit. 🌿 The location is about 30 minutes from Edinburgh. Easily accessible by bus or car. 👉 Perfect for history buffs, photography enthusiasts, and those following in the footsteps of movies. #RosslynChapel #Edinburgh #ScotlandTrip #DaVinciCode #ScotlandAttractions #MysterySeekers #GetDiscountsWithoutLuck
Rosslin Chapel
A visit to Rosslyn Chapel feels like stepping into a space where history, mystery, and craftsmanship intersect. Located just outside Edinburgh, the chapel is relatively small, but its scale is deceptive given the extraordinary level of detail inside. Every surface is covered in intricate carvings, ranging from biblical scenes to symbolic and possibly esoteric imagery, which makes the experience feel dense and immersive. The famous Apprentice Pillar stands out in particular, not only for its elaborate design but also for the legend attached to it, adding a layer of narrative intrigue to the visual impact. The atmosphere inside is calm and reflective, enhanced by the restriction on photography, which encourages visitors to engage more closely with the space. Guided talks and interpretation materials are informative and help contextualise both the historical background and the myths that have come to surround the chapel over time. The surrounding area, including nearby woodland walks, complements the visit and offers a quieter moment to reflect after exploring the interior. Overall, Rosslyn Chapel is a compelling and slightly enigmatic destination—less about grandeur and more about detail, symbolism, and the experience of looking closely.#travel2026 #scotland
Pentland Hills｜Wind, grassy slopes, and distant mountains dissolve the city's noise.
📍 Edinburgh|Pentland Hills Regional Park|Glencorse Valley Route 🌤 Easy and relaxing countryside trail Pentland Hills Regional Park is about a 30-minute drive from Edinburgh city center, offering multiple well-marked trails suitable for hikers of all levels. Glencorse Valley is one of the easier routes with open and scenic views. · -- 🏞 Glencorse Valley|Flat and easy valley trail This route follows the valley with gentle slopes. The path mainly consists of dirt trails and grassy terrain, making it ideal for a 1–2 hour leisurely walk. Along the way, you can enjoy views of hills, grasslands, and expansive scenery. Highlights · Clear trail, suitable for beginners · Open valley views · Can connect to other trails for extended hikes · -- 🐮 Animal Info (Highland Cattle) Certain areas of Pentland Hills are home to Highland cattle used for farming purposes. They usually roam in grassy areas, keeping a safe distance from the trails. Precautions · Maintain a safe distance · Do not feed or touch them · Follow on-site signs and farm instructions · -- 🌿 Glencorse Reservoir|Lakeside trail The trail can extend to Glencorse Reservoir. The lakeside environment is tranquil, featuring flat sections suitable for a short rest or scenic photography. Recommendations · Flat and easy lakeside trail · Capture reflections on the water during good weather · Suitable for families or relaxing strolls · -- 🌄 Hilltop Viewpoint|Elevated views For a bit more challenge, you can hike uphill to the ridge. The elevation is not too high, but the views are more expansive, offering a panoramic look at the valley and lake. Highlights · Wide ridge views · Ideal for panoramic photography · Windy conditions, recommend wearing a windproof jacket · -- 🌟 Summary Pentland Hills Regional Park offers multiple easy trails. The Glencorse Valley route is well-marked and features diverse scenery, making it perfect for a half-day countryside outing or a relaxing hike.
The best place to go at weekends
#hellohalloween I have been living at Edinburgh for 3 years. At this weekend, I went to the pentland hill to go for a walk. Pentland hill is the highest mountain in the city of Edinburgh, and ot takes about 40 minutes to get there by taking bus 101/101A from princes street. After arriving, you can see the beautiful scenery, which is as good as that in highland. Then keep going forward to the direction of skying centre, this takes about 3 hours. And there is a bus to the city centre.
Wandering with the HIGHLANDS🤙🏻
#edinburghtrips I can’t believe that this hotel is listed as one star. From arriving the staff couldn’t be more welcoming and helpful. The room was lovely, although a little warm in the heatwave. Someone had left the bathroom towel rail on full blast. The room was tidy and clean. Just the right space to relax after some days wandering around Edinburgh and The Highlands. The included breakfast was perfect. The first morning we weren’t able to enjoy this due to a booked coach trip but the hotel offered a packed lunch for us to enjoy whilst out and about. Plenty of breakfast on offer and a lovely selection of cereals and juices. Absolutely I will look to return next time I’m in Edinburgh. From start to finish it was a lovely experience. Thought the food was amazing, staff were lovely and extremely friendly and rooms had the most pleasant vibes with calm and peace. I absolutely loved the stay. Pet friendly place and you might expect to meet a lot of furry babies inside. Would have liked the room to be a tat bit cleaner, but it could just be me and you may not complain, as I have an OCD for cleanliness. In summary, loved the stay, would deffo recommend the morning breakfast, the croissants are the masterpiece. #travel
Rosslyn Chapel – Scotland’s Enigmatic Masterpiece of Stone and Symbolism
#mytraveldiary Rosslyn Chapel, located in the quiet village of Roslin just south of Edinburgh, is one of Scotland’s most mysterious and enchanting landmarks. Built in the 15th century, this ornate chapel is renowned for its intricate stone carvings, rich symbolism, and associations with legends of the Knights Templar and the Holy Grail. Immortalized in popular culture through The Da Vinci Code, Rosslyn Chapel has become a place where history, myth, and artistry intertwine. ⸻ Ambience & Atmosphere The moment you step inside, the chapel captivates with its overwhelming detail. Every inch of stone seems alive—carved with biblical scenes, mythical creatures, flora, and geometric designs whose meanings are still debated today. The dim light filtering through stained-glass windows enhances its aura of mystery, while the stillness of the surrounding countryside adds to its sense of otherworldly calm. ⸻ What It Offers & Highlights · The Apprentice Pillar – A masterpiece of medieval carving, with legends surrounding its creation and tragic story. · Intricate Carvings – Over 1,000 unique carvings, from angels playing musical instruments to depictions of plants and even maize, unusual for its time. · Mysterious Symbolism – Possible links to Freemasonry, the Knights Templar, and esoteric traditions. · Historic Architecture – A striking example of Late Gothic design with extraordinary attention to detail. · Cultural Significance – Featured in books, films, and centuries of folklore, fueling fascination with its secrets. · Visitor Centre – Modern facilities with exhibitions explaining the history, legends, and restoration of the chapel. ⸻ Practical Info · Opening Hours: Typically 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (varies by season). · Admission: Around £10 for adults; reduced rates for concessions; free for children under 16 with an adult. · Location: Roslin, Midlothian – about 30 minutes by bus or car from Edinburgh. · Facilities: Visitor centre, café, gift shop, guided talks included in ticket. ⸻ Why It’s Worth Visiting · Artistic marvel: Every surface is covered with carvings of extraordinary beauty and mystery. · Historical intrigue: A chapel wrapped in centuries of myth, legend, and speculation. · Atmospheric setting: Peaceful countryside location with a sense of timeless wonder. · Unique cultural experience: A fusion of Scotland’s medieval heritage with global fascination thanks to literature and film. ⸻ Rosslyn Chapel is far more than a religious site—it is a place where craftsmanship, history, and mystery converge, leaving visitors spellbound by its beauty and secrets.
What people are saying about Midlothian
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is an absolutely breathtaking historical landmark! ❤️ Perched high on Castle Rock, it offers spectacular views of Edinburgh and the surrounding city. The impressive stone walls, ancient architecture, and rich Scottish history make this place truly special. Walking through the castle feels like stepping back in time, with fascinating stories of kings, queens, battles, and royal traditions waiting to be discovered. I especially love the dramatic setting and the way the castle stands proudly above the city. It’s a perfect destination for history lovers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys exploring beautiful historical places. 😊 Definitely a must-visit attraction in Scotland!
Tania Akter (Sumi)Edinburgh Old Town
🏴 Exploring the Beautiful City of Edinburgh, Scotland! ❤️🏰What an amazing experience exploring the historic streets of Edinburgh! From the magnificent Edinburgh Castle to the stunning architecture and charming old stone buildings, every corner tells a story of Scotland's rich history and culture.Walking through the beautiful Old Town, surrounded by historic buildings, breathtaking views and lively streets, felt like stepping back in time. The atmosphere, the architecture and the beauty of this city make it truly unforgettable.Scotland, you are full of history, charm and magic! A beautiful destination and a wonderful memory. ❤️
Girish9400Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is an absolutely breathtaking historical landmark! ❤️ Perched high on Castle Rock, it offers spectacular views of Edinburgh and the surrounding city. The impressive stone walls, ancient architecture, and rich Scottish history make this place truly special. Walking through the castle feels like stepping back in time, with fascinating stories of kings, queens, battles, and royal traditions waiting to be discovered. I especially love the dramatic setting and the way the castle stands proudly above the city. It’s a perfect destination for history lovers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys exploring beautiful historical places. 😊 Definitely a must-visit attraction in Scotland!
Tania Akter (Sumi)Edinburgh Old Town
🏴 Exploring the Beautiful City of Edinburgh, Scotland! ❤️🏰What an amazing experience exploring the historic streets of Edinburgh! From the magnificent Edinburgh Castle to the stunning architecture and charming old stone buildings, every corner tells a story of Scotland's rich history and culture.Walking through the beautiful Old Town, surrounded by historic buildings, breathtaking views and lively streets, felt like stepping back in time. The atmosphere, the architecture and the beauty of this city make it truly unforgettable.Scotland, you are full of history, charm and magic! A beautiful destination and a wonderful memory. ❤️
Girish9400Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is an absolutely breathtaking historical landmark! ❤️ Perched high on Castle Rock, it offers spectacular views of Edinburgh and the surrounding city. The impressive stone walls, ancient architecture, and rich Scottish history make this place truly special. Walking through the castle feels like stepping back in time, with fascinating stories of kings, queens, battles, and royal traditions waiting to be discovered. I especially love the dramatic setting and the way the castle stands proudly above the city. It’s a perfect destination for history lovers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys exploring beautiful historical places. 😊 Definitely a must-visit attraction in Scotland!
Tania Akter (Sumi)Edinburgh Old Town
🏴 Exploring the Beautiful City of Edinburgh, Scotland! ❤️🏰What an amazing experience exploring the historic streets of Edinburgh! From the magnificent Edinburgh Castle to the stunning architecture and charming old stone buildings, every corner tells a story of Scotland's rich history and culture.Walking through the beautiful Old Town, surrounded by historic buildings, breathtaking views and lively streets, felt like stepping back in time. The atmosphere, the architecture and the beauty of this city make it truly unforgettable.Scotland, you are full of history, charm and magic! A beautiful destination and a wonderful memory. ❤️
Girish9400Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is an absolutely breathtaking historical landmark! ❤️ Perched high on Castle Rock, it offers spectacular views of Edinburgh and the surrounding city. The impressive stone walls, ancient architecture, and rich Scottish history make this place truly special. Walking through the castle feels like stepping back in time, with fascinating stories of kings, queens, battles, and royal traditions waiting to be discovered. I especially love the dramatic setting and the way the castle stands proudly above the city. It’s a perfect destination for history lovers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys exploring beautiful historical places. 😊 Definitely a must-visit attraction in Scotland!
Tania Akter (Sumi)Edinburgh Old Town
🏴 Exploring the Beautiful City of Edinburgh, Scotland! ❤️🏰What an amazing experience exploring the historic streets of Edinburgh! From the magnificent Edinburgh Castle to the stunning architecture and charming old stone buildings, every corner tells a story of Scotland's rich history and culture.Walking through the beautiful Old Town, surrounded by historic buildings, breathtaking views and lively streets, felt like stepping back in time. The atmosphere, the architecture and the beauty of this city make it truly unforgettable.Scotland, you are full of history, charm and magic! A beautiful destination and a wonderful memory. ❤️
Girish9400Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is an absolutely breathtaking historical landmark! ❤️ Perched high on Castle Rock, it offers spectacular views of Edinburgh and the surrounding city. The impressive stone walls, ancient architecture, and rich Scottish history make this place truly special. Walking through the castle feels like stepping back in time, with fascinating stories of kings, queens, battles, and royal traditions waiting to be discovered. I especially love the dramatic setting and the way the castle stands proudly above the city. It’s a perfect destination for history lovers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys exploring beautiful historical places. 😊 Definitely a must-visit attraction in Scotland!
Tania Akter (Sumi)Edinburgh Old Town
🏴 Exploring the Beautiful City of Edinburgh, Scotland! ❤️🏰What an amazing experience exploring the historic streets of Edinburgh! From the magnificent Edinburgh Castle to the stunning architecture and charming old stone buildings, every corner tells a story of Scotland's rich history and culture.Walking through the beautiful Old Town, surrounded by historic buildings, breathtaking views and lively streets, felt like stepping back in time. The atmosphere, the architecture and the beauty of this city make it truly unforgettable.Scotland, you are full of history, charm and magic! A beautiful destination and a wonderful memory. ❤️
Girish9400Recommended
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