Visit Midlothian

Business representatives and conference organisers recently attended a whirlwind tour of Newbattle Abbey, the Scottish Mining Museum and Dalhousie Castle by the Meet in Midlothian Tourism Partnership, aimed at promoting the facilities on offer at three of Midlothian’s top attractions.

Meet in Midlothian, a unique partnership supported by Midlothian Tourism Forum, Midlothian Council and the VisitScotland Growth Fund, designed the event to showcase and promote the excellent competitively priced conference facilities available at the Midlothian attractions. Guests were escorted around each facility by trained guides and were impressed with the high standards at all three attractions.

Representatives from the business, events and tourism industries began their tour at Dalhousie Castle, recently named Scottish Castle Hotel of the Year 2009. Set within acres of wooded parkland on the picturesque banks of the river Esk, the fascinating 13th century fortress is one of the most iconic sights in Midlothian. Guests were given a tour around the Castle’s impressive spa facilities, luxurious guest rooms and the AA accredited dining area.
The delegates were then ushered to the nearby Scottish Mining Museum, recipient of the 2009 Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions’ Best Visitor Experience award, where they were given tours around the museum’s function rooms and treated to a hands-on experience as they toured the Pithead, where miners used to descend into the darkness of the underground mine, and coalroads.
The evening concluded with a tour of Newbattle Abbey’s historic building, ancient grounds,  and its conference and accommodation facilities. Guests also enjoyed a tour around Newbattle Abbey’s medieval chapel and crypt, once used by monks in the 12th century.

Rae McGhee, Heritage Development Officer at Newbattle Abbey College, said: “We are really pleased to be part of the Meet in Midlothian initiative and the open evening was a fantastic platform for us to showcase our facilities. Midlothian is a beautiful area, just a stone’s throw from the city centre, and a wonderful alternative meeting location.

“At Newbattle, our conference guests can explore the ancient parkland during breaks and enjoy activities such as guided tours of the building or short treasure hunts, which are often included within conference packages. Our medieval chapel and crypt is also the perfect atmospheric backdrop.”

For information on ‘Meet in Midlothian’ please visit www.meetinmidlothian.com.