Located just a few miles away from the noise and buzz of Edinburgh, the idyllic village of Roslin feels like a world apart. This dreamy little village is steeped in legend, shrouded in history, and wrapped in ancient woodlands.
If you are thinking of a short day trip from Edinburgh, Roslin is a brilliant place to be – Easy to reach by bus and plenty to explore.
You may know it from Dan Brown’s world-famous mystery novel, but this peaceful Midlothian village has long whispered its stories to those willing to listen. Roslin’s magic runs much deeper than a Hollywood cameo.
From the spellbinding Rosslyn Chapel and its mysterious carvings to the romantic ruins of Rosslyn Castle and the wild beauty of Roslin Glen, this village will captivate you with its charm.
Things to Do on a Day Trip to Roslin
It was an overcast August morning. We were sitting inside our favourite local coffee shop and trying to think of somewhere, really anywhere, we could escape to for the day. We tossed around a few places – South Queensferry, Portobello and Cramond. But we have already been to these places. We wanted something new.
After a bit of scrolling on the internet, Roslin popped up. Well, I didn’t know anything about this village other than the mention of the chapel in The Da Vinci Code. It intrigued me. Hidden symbols, secret societies.
We checked the bus time, and before we knew it, we were already on board, leaving the city behind.
Discover the Mysterious Rosslyn Chapel
The main tourist attraction in Roslin that draws people from all over the world is the famous Rosslyn Chapel.
It gained worldwide fame when it appeared in Dan Brown’s renowned novel The Da Vinci Code. While some of the theories in this book are more fiction than fact, there is no denying the sense of mystery that lingers in Rosslyn Chapel.
It was founded in 1446 by Sir William St Clair, a nobleman and the 1st Earl of Caithness. He was part of the powerful Sinclair family, which held lands in this part of Scotland for generations.
What to See Inside
The interior of Rosslyn Chapel is breathtaking. It is small, but every inch is covered in carvings. I spent ages just looking at the ceiling. There are stars, flowers, and angels – so much detail everywhere you look.
There are hundreds of faces of green men hidden among the designs. Once you spot one, you start seeing them all around.
One of the most famous features inside Rosslyn Chapel is the stunning Apprentice Pillar. Legend says a master mason went away, and while he was gone, his apprentice carved the pillar. When he returned and saw how beautiful it was, he became jealous and killed the apprentice in a fit of rage. With plenty of spirals, vines, and delicate details, the pillar still stands in the chapel.
We also explored the crypt downstairs. It was dark, cold, and a bit spooky. Some say it hides a secret treasure, while others believe it may hold the Holy Grail, the Ark of the Covenant, or even ancient Templar relics. Probably not. But who knows?
Photography isn’t allowed inside, which was a bit disappointing. By the time we were done with the tour, it started raining heavily. So, we decided to have a quick lunch at Rosslyn Chapel Coffee Shop.
Uncover the history of Roslin Castle
After the rain eased, we followed a woodland path, which led us to Roslin Castle.
You will cross a dramatic stone bridge over a deep ravine, offering beautiful views of the lush forest of the glen. And there it is – perched high on a rocky outcrop above the River North Esk lies Roslin Castle.
The original castle dates back to the early 14th century, built by the powerful Sinclair family. Yes, the same noble family behind Rosslyn Chapel.
Back then, Roslin Castle was a large and well-fortified residence. But history, as usual, had other plans. It was badly damaged by fire in 1544 during an English invasion, then rebuilt, only to be battered again in the mid-17th century during the Civil War. After that, it slowly slipped into ruin, and slowly nature took over.
I wandered through the remains of the old gatehouse and the quiet courtyard.
Explore the Roslin Glen Country Park
We took the steep set of stairs near the castle, going down to the river. This leafy park is one of the best places for a peaceful nature walk in Edinburgh.
Roslin Glen follows the River North Esk through some of Midlothian’s last remaining ancient woodlands. Oaks, hazel, birch, and ash twist skyward, their branches heavy with moss and lichen. Also, the forest has a rich wildlife. Peel your eyes for deer, otter and dipper.
There are various walking trails in this woodland. If you keep an eye out, you might spot Wallace’s Cave, hidden in the rock. Legend has it that William Wallace once hid in there.
It is so peaceful here. The only people we came across were local dog walkers and a few occasional hikers. We followed the circular riverside trail, which took around an hour.
There are many benches along the path to sit back and relax. We enjoyed reading the information boards showcasing the unique history of this area.
We were surprised to learn that several artists, poets, and writers have been drawn to Roslin Glen for centuries. J.M.W. Turner painted this area. Dorothy Wordsworth called it “a more delicious dell.” Sir Walter Scott wandered these paths as well.
Find the Atmospheric Roslin Gunpowder Mill
Another thing we never expected to find out was that this tranquil woodland was once home to Scotland’s largest gunpowder factory. Who would have guessed that?
Deep in the heart of Roslin Glen, some of the remnants of its once-booming industrial heritage still remain. We followed the winding path to find the atmospheric ruins of Roslin Gunpowder Mill.
The enduring silence and lush green forest create a sense of magic here. Later, we found out that this place is one of the Outlander filming locations in Scotland.
The mill was established in the early 19th century. For over 150 years, the river powered the grinding wheels and machinery that produced black powder.
Eventually, we circled back to the Roslin village and caught the return bus to Edinburgh. Sometimes, the best adventures are the quiet ones. The ones that start with a cup of coffee and a spontaneous decision.
How to Reach Roslin from Edinburgh City Centre
Getting to this sleepy village from Edinburgh is surprisingly easy, and you won’t need a car to get there.
By Bus: Hop on the Lothian Bus service 37 from Princes Street or South Bridge. Before boarding, make sure it is heading towards Penicuik / Deanburn.
The journey usually takes around 45 to 50 minutes, depending on the traffic. Get off at the Original Rosslyn Hotel stop, which is right in the centre of Roslin village. You can pay contactless on board or use a Ridacard. A day ticket costs £5.50.
By Car: Roslin is about seven miles south of Edinburgh. Take the A701 towards Penicuik and follow the signs for this village. There is free parking near both Rosslyn Chapel and the country park.
