Tired of living in Edinburgh, try these three charming Midlothian towns instead
Dalkeith, Bonnyrigg, and Penicuik
Edinburgh is a vibrant, historic city, but city life isn’t for everyone. Whether it’s the high cost of living, crowded streets, or just the desire for a quieter pace, you might find yourself dreaming of somewhere with a bit more breathing room. Luckily, Midlothian, just outside Edinburgh, offers several charming towns with a more relaxed vibe, all while keeping you close to the capital. Here are three Midlothian towns — Dalkeith, Bonnyrigg, and Penicuik — worth considering if you’re ready for a change.
1. Dalkeith: A Blend of Heritage and Modernity
Dalkeith, located just a few miles southeast of Edinburgh, is a historic town that offers a great mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences. It’s well-known for Dalkeith Country Park, an expansive estate with woodland walks, cycle routes, and the popular Restoration Yard, a boutique shopping and dining destination. The park gives you a slice of nature without venturing far from town, perfect for families and those who want to escape the city hustle.
In terms of amenities, Dalkeith has everything you’d expect from a town, with supermarkets, schools, and good transport links into Edinburgh via the A68 or regular bus services. It’s also home to several historic buildings, including Dalkeith Palace, which adds a layer of cultural depth to the town.
Dalkeith has grown in popularity due to its proximity to Edinburgh and its lower housing prices compared to the capital. For those looking for a slower pace of life but who still want easy access to the city, Dalkeith is a fantastic option.
Why Dalkeith?
- Access to Dalkeith Country Park
- Rich history and architecture
- Close proximity to Edinburgh with great transport links
2. Bonnyrigg: Family-Friendly with a Community Spirit
Bonnyrigg, another town just a few miles southeast of Edinburgh, is perfect for those looking for a strong community vibe. Over the past few years, Bonnyrigg has seen a lot of growth, with new housing developments attracting families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Despite its expansion, Bonnyrigg has maintained its small-town charm, with local businesses, community events, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bonnyrigg offers excellent access to green spaces, including Vogrie Country Park and Pentland Hills, ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities like walking, cycling, or even horse riding. The town has several good schools, making it popular with families, and the sense of community here is strong, with local sports clubs, events, and a busy high street.
For commuting to Edinburgh, Bonnyrigg is well connected by bus routes and road links, and the nearby Eskbank railway station offers easy access to Edinburgh Waverley in around 20 minutes. Housing is more affordable here compared to the city, and you get a lot more space for your money, making it a great choice if you’re looking to settle down without the stress of Edinburgh’s city life.
Why Bonnyrigg?
- Great for families with a strong community spirit
- Access to nature with parks and green spaces nearby
- Well-connected to Edinburgh by bus and train
3. Penicuik: Nature at Your Doorstep
If your idea of escaping Edinburgh includes being close to nature, Penicuik might be the town for you. Nestled at the foot of the Pentland Hills, Penicuik offers stunning landscapes and outdoor activities right on your doorstep. From hiking to skiing in the winter months, the nearby Glencorse Reservoir and Flotterstone make Penicuik a paradise for nature lovers.
Penicuik itself has a rich history, having grown around paper mills and other industries in the 19th century. Today, it’s a thriving town with a friendly, down-to-earth community. The high street has a mix of independent shops and larger stores, and there are several local pubs and cafes where you can get to know your neighbours.
For families, Penicuik has several well-regarded schools, and like Bonnyrigg, the town is also well connected to Edinburgh by bus routes. While it’s slightly further from the capital than Dalkeith or Bonnyrigg, it offers a slower pace of life and a quieter, more rural atmosphere without sacrificing access to city amenities.
Why Penicuik?
- Surrounded by nature with the Pentland Hills on your doorstep
- A close-knit community with a quieter, rural vibe
- Affordable housing and a slower pace of life
Final Thoughts
If you’re tired of the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh but don’t want to move too far from its cultural offerings and job opportunities, Dalkeith, Bonnyrigg, and Penicuik offer excellent alternatives. Each of these towns brings something unique to the table — whether it’s Dalkeith’s blend of history and modernity, Bonnyrigg’s family-friendly community, or Penicuik’s proximity to nature.
By moving to one of these Midlothian towns, you can enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle while staying connected to the best of what the Edinburgh area has to offer.
