THE LOTHIANS - TOWNS AND VILLAGES

Bonnyrigg

Bonnyrigg is a charming, small, ex-mining town located about 6 miles from Edinburgh, in Midlothian. It has been on maps dating from about 1750, and in the past centuries has absorbed several smaller towns surrounding it. Today it thrives as part of the larger Edinburgh metropolis, with new construction allowing families to live near the city with a more quiet appeal. Sights worth a visit in Bonnyrigg include the Scottish Mining Museum, the Old Public Library, Broomieknowe Golf Club, and the beautiful hotel Dalhousie Castle.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is an inspiring city, where history meets a vibrant, cosmopolitan future. Step off the train at the famous Waverly Station and find yourself immersed in culture, shopping, rich history, and exciting activities. Edinburgh is bursting with galleries, museums, and festivals celebrating everything from film and literature to science. Be sure to visit the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, and the National Portrait Gallery!

Kirknewton

Located just 5 miles from the Edinburgh bypass, this sleepy hamlet has a remote feel. Its earliest signs of inhabitation are a series of Iron Age forts at Kaimes Hill and Dalmahoy Hill. The city played an important role in the oil industry during the 1860's and as a Royal airfield during WWII. The Old School House, Graveyard, Kirknewton House, and old Hangars offer interesting and diverse history!

North Berwick

An attractive seaside resort town, North Berwick and its fortunes have flourished with the prominence of Edinburgh. Its core is formed by the harbor, built into a rock promontory between two sandy bays, and serves as home to the East Lothian Yacht Club. The High Street area, though crowded, is an excellent place to find quirky shops and a well-preserved example of early architecture. The volcanic rock North Berwick Law is visible for miles in every direction and is a popular attraction for climbers who want a stunning view from the rock itself. Don't miss out on Tantallon Castle and the Museum of Flight.

Roslin

Sometimes called Rosslyn (after its historic name), this beautiful, small town is located just east of the Pentland Hills. Known primarily as the maybe-maybe not home of the Holy Grail, Roslin also counts being home to cutting edge biological science as one of its top accomplishments. Who can forget Dolly the Sheep, the first successfully cloned animal in history, a breakthrough in science achieved at the Roslin Institute. Near to Rosslyn Chapel is the oft forgotten Rosslyn Castle, home to the 15th century St. Clair family, who also built the famed church.

Uphall

Uphall is a quickly growing village, located just 14 miles from Edinburgh in the Scottish lowlands. The small area was once known as Strathbrock, and was home to mainly peasants and servants who worked for wealthy Lord Strabrok. It is another town which benefitted heavily from the oil trade and mining. Today tourists love it for its remoteness and beautiful old architecture, surrounding scenery, and public golf course. Their local craft fair, held annually in October, draws in visitors from all over.