Learn and Experience Scotland
Scotland has so many incredible treasures to discover from ancient castles and architectural gems, sensational natural landscapes, and world renowned festivals of art, literacy and culture. The key ingredient that wraps it all up beautifully is the warmth and welcoming hospitality of the Scottish people.
There really is something for everyone to enjoy and discover. We’re pretty sure once you get a taste you’ll be hooked!
Scotland – a little insight
Old Millhouse guests are curious about Scotland, we have collated some of the questions we are often asked and of course, always happy to answer more when you are here experiencing Scotland.
Scotland is renowned for its history, it’s heritage, its beauty, but Scotland is also a world renowned country for its creativity, its ingenuity and is a significant present day contributor to the contemporary academic and business economies of the world.
Populations
- Scotland – 5.5 Million
- Glasgow – 1.7 Million
- Edinburgh – 554,000
- East Lothian – 106,000
- Dalkeith – 15,000
Top industries
- Digital and technology
- Energy industries
- Food and drink industry
- Health and life sciences
- Tourism industry
We’re famous for
- Whisky
- Electronics
- Oil
- Alternative Energy
- Food and Drink
Invented by Scots
- TV
- Telephone
- Penicillin
- MRI scanner
- ATM machine
Famous authors
- Robert Burns
- Walter Scott
- Muriel Spark
- Ian Rankin
- Irvine Welsh
Scottish actors
- Emma Thompson
- Dougray Scott
- David Tennant
- James McAvoy
- Deborah Kerr
Edinburgh International Festival
August kicks off in style with the world-renowned Edinburgh International Festival and the Edinburgh Fringe, where many glistening acting careers have been launched, think Alan Rickman, Rachel Weisz and Robin Williams.
The Edinburgh International Festival is a month-long celebration of performing arts and culture, and a meeting point for people from all nations.
Recognised on the world’s stage for presenting some of the finest ensembles of dance, opera, music and theatre. The city bursts into life during the month of August. It’s a real spectacle.
So much to see and do, and eat!
There’s a myriad of places to visit and it can be tricky knowing which ones to choose. So, as a starter for five we’ve put together a selection of our 5 favourite restaurants, pubs and attractions for you to enjoy,
Great restaurants nearby
- The Cavaliere – Family run Italian , in the heart of Dalkeith.
- The Radhuni – Fantastic Indian restaurant, 10 min taxi from the house.
- The Paper Mill – Wine bar and restaurant, converted mill with outdoor terrace overlooking the River Esk.
- The Winton – The Hornig’s haggis bon bons with a mustard mayonnaise are exactly as they should be.
- Restoration Yard – Restoration Yard is the best place to visit to eat, shop and restore. Located in stunning Dalkeith Country Park.
Golf until your heart’s content. At amazing courses across East Lothian, Edinburgh & Scotland
Scotland is the home of golf, and we are justifiably proud of our heritage and history. The Old Millhouse, a firm favourite with golfers, is located within 3o minutes drive to some of the world’s best links and parkland courses.
The house comfortably sleeps 10, is fully secure and has all of the facilities golfers require. Luxury surroundings, security for your clubs, our swimspa to relax tired muscles or rock in our garden hammock – our on-site concierge services are available to you.
If you need additional tee-off times, transport, food on the go, your own special blend of whisky for your post dinner snifter or to entertain a group of friends with Scotland’s finest foods, our team will take care of it all.
East Lothian courses
Courses within driving distance
Visitor attractions and worthwhile days out
Make a day of it
Alba Game Fishing
Our partners Alba Game Fishing provide luxury fishing trips and mixed fishing and touring activities throughout Scotland. Established in 2004, Alba are endorsed by Orvis, and have a team of 20 guides across all locations, premium fishing tackle, permits and waders are included. They offer professionally guided fishing trips on the River Tweed for salmon, sea trout, brown trout and grayling. In addition there are a number fo highly productive lochs within easy reach of The Old Millhouse, including a wonderful loch offering private Pike fishing The experiences offer add-ons like, pro-photography, transport, cooked lunches and the ability to look after larger groups up to 50 people.
Make a day of it
Dalkeith Country Park & Restoration Yard
Dalkeith Country Park is a truly special place just a five minute drive from the Old Millhouse. Set in 1,000 acres and home to Fort Douglas adventure park and Restoration Yard Store, Restaurant and Wellbeing Lab, it’s a place to explore, to have some fun. Fort Douglas adventure park is perfect for toddlers and children up to the age of 12. Explore huge treehouses, whoosh along zip wires, discover secret tunnels and brave the new Sky Maze with its invisible floor and HUGE slides! Plus, adults can go on everything too so the whole family can play together. Yipee!
Make a day of it
Famously Hawick – The Cashmere, Tweed and Whisky Town
Hawick, just an hours drive from Old Millhouse and with a rich manufacturing heritage and an international reputation for producing quality goods, offers a great day out.
The Great Tapestry of Scotland
Through 160 hand stitched panels displayed chronologically, visitors can explore Scotland’s history, heritage, innovations and culture, from the formation of the land that became Scotland to the modern day.
Make a day of it
Rosslyn Chapel
Rosslyn Chapel is only 20 minutes from The Old Millhouse and is definitely worth a visit. The gothic structure was built in 1446 by William St. Clair of Rosslyn and is the inspiration for best-selling books and blockbuster movies. It’s steeped in myths, legends, conspiracy, murder and alleged connections to the historic cult of the Knights Templar.
Glenkinchie Distillery
Glenkinchie lies, as the name might suggest, in a glen of the Kinchie Burn near the village of Pencaitland, East Lothian. It is situated about 15 miles from Edinburgh. The distillery is set in farmland.
