Family fun outside Edinburgh
Thanks to huge investment in the town, which included the building of a bypass to take traffic travelling to Edinburgh away from the centre, Dalkeith has come a long way in recent years. It has all the benefits of being close to a major city while still being peaceful enough to slow down the pace a little, and has lots for families to enjoy.
A feast of activities in Dalkeith Country Park
Breathe in the fresh air of this fantastic park that only opened in 2016. Explore the Old Oak Wood with trees over 900 years old, pretend you're Katniss Everdeen on the archery range or enjoy a picnic on a sunny day. Dalkeith Palace, where Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed during the Jacobite Rebellion, stands in the park, along with the spectacular Montagu Bridge. There's also zorbing and an adventure playground for youngsters.
Extreme adventures on trampolines
Fancy having a go at dodgeball and slam-dunking a basketball - all on trampolines? Well, you're in luck. At Ryze, families can bounce together around connected trampolines, and leap into foam pits. You'll certainly sleep well after a heart-pounding session here. Planning a trip to Dalkeith? To the north, Travelodge Edinburgh Musselburgh Hotel is a 10-minute drive from the town. Travelodge Edinburgh Cameron Toll Hotel is great for both Dalkeith and Edinburgh's central attractions.