Mid Lothian

Mid-Lothian is dominated by the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, however there are a few other places of interest. Dalkeith is an ancient market town that was chartered in 1144 and was largely governed by the Douglas and Buccleuch clans. Dalkeith House, sometimes known as Dalkeith Palace, dates from the 12th century but was largely rebuilt in the early 18th century. It has welcomed many monarchs through the ages including George IV and Queen Victoria however, to stay there these days you have to be a student of the University of Wisconsin, who hold the lease, though but the park lands are open to the public.

Nearby is the Scottish Mining Museum at Lady Victoria Colliery. This interactive exhibition allows you to go on a simulated shift and experience life below ground.

Penicuik used to be known as the paper making town though all of the mils have now shut and the most famous, the Valleyfield Mill, has completely vanished and a housing estate stands in its place. However, just one and a half miles away is Howgate, which has a number of attractive 18th century buildings like the Old Howgate Inn and Howgate Mouth.