Dalkeith Country Park

Tony Brotherton

You need to log in as a member of Walkingworld to access the details for this walk and have an active subscription. Please join, or log in above if you are already a member.

An easy, mainly level perambulation around Dalkeith Country Park, part of the Buccleuch Estates, includes meadowland, woods, three crossings of the Rivers North or South Esk and some fine examples of Adam Brothers' architecture. The terrain is estate roads, tracks and woodland paths. You are likely to see horses and cattle in the fields you pass.

The William Adam stable-yard will soon be able to boast an extensive new adventure playground and will still house a café, toilets and the rangers' office. Some redevelopment work was going on when I visited at Christmas 2014 and it is due to reopen in the New Year. Charges will apply in the summer months for entry to the adventure playground. I understand that shooting often takes place on the estate on winter Wednesdays. (These last two items aren't necessarily connected!)

Update June 2018: the new adventure playground, together with cafes, restaurants and shops, is now set to open in summer 2018.

A shopping area called The Restoration Yard will open on 25 July alongside a new adventure playground named Fort Douglas at Dalkeith Country Park.

The park's walking and cycling routes have also been upgraded.

There is a pub opposite Waymark 01 and several pubs and restaurants just off-route in Dalkeith High Street.

Part of the walk is within earshot of the busy A68 and A720 roads, which shouldn't detract as there is a definite feeling of remoteness on the circuit.

Information for Dog Owners: because of livestock, dogs would need to be under control at all times.

Scotland - Central Scotland - Midlothian - Countryside

Features

Ancient Monument, Birds, Butterflies, Cafe, Church, Flowers, Good for Kids, Great Views, Mostly Flat, Nature Trail, Play Area, Public Transport, River, Stately Home, Toilets, Wildlife, Woodland