Situated in the heart of the Lothians, the hotel neighbours world famous attractions such as Rosslyn Chapel and the Museum of Flight, which is home to a breathtaking Concorde.
Only 20 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh, guests are at the doorstep of an eclectic mix of historic, beautiful and entertaining attractions. Sites include Edinburgh Castle, Royal Yacht Britannia, and the Edinburgh Dungeons!
Dalkeith Country Park
This part of Dalkeith Palace Estate offers a toy fort, a monster slide and zip lines for the children and a thrilling treetop walk for the more mature. Inspect fascinating early Victorian orangery which is shortly to be restored to its former glory. Have a break and sample the home made scones at the tea shop in the old stable block. A ranger's service operates to help you navigate your way through this large and interesting Estate. The country park is easily accessed by car. You can also take the 3A bus opposite the Melville Castle gates.
Admission: Adults and children over five £3.00
Tel: +44 (0)131 6541666
Web: www.dalkeithcountrypark.com
Rosslyn Chapel
Originally commissioned in 1140, by William St Clare first Earl of Caithness and built with a purpose and content which strongly relates to early Christianity to the crusades. Lying quietly dormant for the last six hundred years this small chapel has now awakened to a world of speculation.
The Holy Grail, The Knights of the Round Table, the secrets in the innumerable stone carvings. The intrigue multiplies.
Visit, Read about it! Consider the history for yourself.
Distance: 4 miles
Admission: Adults £7.00 Concs £6.00
Tel: +44 (0)131 440 2159
Web: www.rosslynchapel.org.uk
Museum of Flight
Standing in the former RAF base of East Fortune the museum contains a fascinating and extensive collection of aircraft from the earliest days of flight. The museum shows the development of flight through the years and also brings us to the aircraft of the Second World War with the well known names of Hurricane, Spitfire and to the Harrier jets of recent years. The magnificent and awe inspiring presence of Concorde is also there for your wonderment.
Distance: approx 19 miles
Admission: Adult £5.50; Concession £4.50; Kids free
Tel: +44 (0)1620 897 240
Web: www.nms.ac.uk/museumofflighthomepage
Scottish Mining Museum
Established in 1984 the museum was founded to preserve Scotland's mining heritage. Wonder at the finest surviving example of a Victorian colliery within a fully accessible three storey visitor centre which contains everything relating to Scotland's "black diamonds". Examine the massive Steam Engine and the underground gallery complete with coalface. Visit the hands on and audio shows. Complete with restaurant and bar. A great day out for all the family.
Distance: approx 4 miles
Admission: Adult £5.95; Child & Conc £3.95
Tel: 44 (0)131 663 7519.
Web: www.scottishminingmuseum.com/
Butterfly World
Turn up your collar and discover an abundance of insects, spiders, tropical butterflies and much more! Located just 500 yards from Melville Castle gates. The butterfly world is well worth a humid visit.
Dobbies Garden Centre can meet all your other requirements with everything from a pair of green wellies to a goldfish bowl and the goldfish.
Admission: Adults £5.00 Children & Concs £3.85
Distance: 500 yards
Tel: +44 (0)131 663 4932
Web: www.edinburgh-butterfly-world.co.uk
Edinburgh Castle
Part of the Old & New Towns of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle is the must-see tourist destinationof the City. Sat on an extinct volcano, the Castle is an instantly recognisable part of the City skyline. Home to the Royal Crown Jewels, Edinburgh Castle is a major visitor attraction well worth the trip.
The Royal Yacht Britannia
Currently anchored in Leith, The Royal Yacht Britannia used to be home to Her Majesty The Queen and the Royal Family. You will begin your visit in Ocean Terminal at the Britannia Visitor Centre where a host of displays and historic photographs can be viewed before boarding. Once on the Royal Yacht you will receive a complimentary audio handset to listen to exciting stories of the Yachts past before setting on your self-guided tour of Britannia itself.
Scottish Parliament
The Scottish Parliament was re-established in 1999 and is now situated in Holyrood, Edinburgh. Tours are given Monday to Saturday and facilities include their public cafe, creche, shop and services for disabled people. The Scottish Parliament website also offers information in a number of foreign languages.
The Botanic Gardens
One of the world's finest botanic gardens, Edinburgh's addition is located on Inverleith Row, just off Ferry Road. It is easily accessible and can also be reached using Edinburgh Bus Tours. Experience the exotic and well cared for gardens, the famous Glasshouses and contemporary art, all completely free of charge.