Visit Midlothian

A ranger service operates at Dalkeith to help people enjoy the beauties of the countryside and the work of a country estate. Guided walks, talks and special school activities are available year round by arrangement. Topics include forestry, wildlife, landscape history and many others. All educational visits are free. Enjoy a cup of coffee in our Visitor Centre at the restored stables or browse through our estate shop while your kids play at the Adventure Playground.The estate evolved around Dalkeith House which was built around 1700, as a large pleasure garden. It never stops changing. The formality of manicured lawns and hedges has been softened by natures hand over the years and has produced this unique semi-natural woodland which is the home to deer, foxes and a myriad of smaller birds, animals and insects. The woodland although planted and managed as a commercial crop still maintains a feeling of wildwood and romance.