Dalkeith Country Park

Dalkeith Country Park offers a wonderful family day out. There is just so much to do in its 1000 acres, from strolling along its lovely woodland walks, admiring its many architectural gems and watching children playing in the adventure play areas, to studying the ancient oak woods (a site of special scientific interest) and having a cup of coffee or a light snack in the café. It belongs to the Buccleuch Estates, headed by the Duke of Buccleuch, which manages estates both in Scotland and England, and which has an international reputation for conservation and land management. Dalkeith has the reputation of being one of the best country parks in the country, a reputation it guards jealously by offering the very best in everything it does!

It sits close to the town of Dalkeith and has been open to the public since the 1940s for informal recreation. In 1984 a large and exciting woodland adventure play area was added, and proved so popular that it has been added to every year since. The parkland surrounds the old Dalkeith House, which has many historical associations. Since it was built it has seen the hand of famous architects such as Adam, Vanbrugh, Playfair, Bryce and Burns. A ranger service operates throughout the year to help people appreciate and enjoy all that the park offers. It organises guided walks and talks, as well as special school activities on such themes as forestry, wildlife and landscape history. There is also an estate shop, where you are free to browse.

Go to the website for more info and pictures.

Thanks for all your info. from Keith and Scott!