Lothian Bridge Caravan Park

Lothian Bridge Caravan Park is a small, family-run site at the foot of a historic bridge, with Newtongrange’s shops, pubs, restaurants and railway station a short walk away. Its location suits visitors wanting to combine camping with trips into Edinburgh without taking a vehicle into the city. There are 46 spacious campervan pitches, each with electrical hook-up, alongside a separate tent camping area on level grass. Practical facilities include toilets, showers, laundry and dishwashing areas, fresh drinking water and waste disposal. Dogs are welcome. The season runs from 1 April to 30 November, and booking enquiries can be made through the website’s enquiry form or by telephone.

Newtongrange’s industrial heritage gives a local outing a distinctive focus. The National Mining Museum Scotland occupies the restored Lady Victoria Colliery, which opened in 1895 and continued producing coal until 1981. Its surviving Victorian buildings make the colliery itself as much a part of the visit as the museum collections.

For another historical excursion in Midlothian, Rosslyn Chapel in Roslin offers a striking contrast to the mining landscape. Founded in 1446, it is known for elaborate stone carvings, including Green Men, angels and the Apprentice Pillar. Visits use timed admission slots, with advance booking recommended to guarantee entry. Those travelling with a dog should note that only assistance dogs are admitted to the chapel, grounds and visitor centre.