Roslin Glen Country Park Edinburgh
Serene woodland park near Edinburgh with riverside trails, historical ruins, and the famed Rosslyn Chapel nearby.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant fall colors
Roslin Glen Country Park Edinburgh
Best Time
Vibrant fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Serene woodland park near Edinburgh with riverside trails, historical ruins, and the famed Rosslyn Chapel nearby.
"Beautiful calming atmosphere, nice big paths, easy for all the family to navigate."
👟 Wear Sturdy Boots
Trails can get very boggy, especially after rain. Waterproof, sturdy footwear is essential.
🚌 Bus Access
Catch the 37 or 47 bus from Edinburgh city centre to reach Roslin.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Woodland Trails
Wander through atmospheric woodlands, following paths alongside the River North Esk.
Ruined Gunpowder Mill
Explore the remnants of an 18th-century gunpowder mill, a fascinating historical site.
Rosslyn Chapel Vicinity
While not in the park itself, the famed Rosslyn Chapel is nearby and a starting point for some walks.
River North Esk
Enjoy the peaceful sounds and scenic views of the river flowing through the glen.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Woodlands
Getting There & Parking
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Boots
Trails can get very boggy, especially after rain. Waterproof, sturdy footwear is essential.
🚌 Bus Access
Catch the 37 or 47 bus from Edinburgh city centre to reach Roslin. +1
🌳 Explore Beyond the Chapel
Head left past the chapel and caravan park for beautiful forest beauty with fewer people.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is free, but be aware of height restrictions in the main car park.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Boots
Trails can get very boggy, especially after rain. Waterproof, sturdy footwear is essential.
🚌 Bus Access
Catch the 37 or 47 bus from Edinburgh city centre to reach Roslin. +1
🌳 Explore Beyond the Chapel
Head left past the chapel and caravan park for beautiful forest beauty with fewer people.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is free, but be aware of height restrictions in the main car park.
🍂 Autumn Beauty
The park is particularly stunning in autumn with lively nature and colorful walkways.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Roslin Glen for its beautiful, calming atmosphere and well-maintained paths, making it ideal for family outings. The peaceful riverside setting and woodland walks are consistently highlighted as positives. Some reviewers noted that trails can become very boggy after rain, and access to certain areas like the castle bridge was temporarily blocked for renovations.
"Beautiful calming atmosphere, nice big paths, easy for all the family to navigate. Children particularly loved exploring the ruined gunpowder mill. Fantastic parking."
Jake & Elwood
"Very calm and quiet country park . A nice and peaceful river streaming through forest green trees."
Salih Ahammed
"Beautiful country park with plenty of parking spaces and a few picnic tables. The trails are well-maintained and offer some great views of Rosslyn Castle. Very peaceful along the river. Unfortunately, the castle bridge entrance was blocked off for renovations, but we will be back!
All of the trails around the castle were so beautiful, but beware going after lots of rain. Trails can get really boggy, even with some of them having traction boards in the wetter areas."
Connor Hughes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Roslin Glen by public transport, with buses like the 37 or 47 running from Edinburgh city centre. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. +1
Yes, Roslin Glen Country Park offers free parking. However, note that there are height barriers for the main car park.
Absolutely! Public transport options are available, making it accessible for those without a car. +1
While the park itself is well-signposted, some visitors suggest heading towards Rosslyn Chapel first and then following paths towards the river for the best experience.
The travel time from Edinburgh to Roslin Glen Country Park is typically around 30 minutes by car or bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Roslin Glen Country Park is free.
There are no entrance fees for Roslin Glen Country Park, making it a great budget-friendly nature escape.
Roslin Glen Country Park is generally open from dawn till dusk, offering ample time for exploration. Specific hours may vary seasonally.
To avoid crowds, visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or late afternoons, is recommended.
While Rosslyn Chapel is adjacent to the park, it has its own separate entry and visiting hours. You can access the park from the chapel grounds.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Roslin Glen features woodland trails and riverside paths. Some are well-maintained, while others can become boggy and muddy after rain. +1
Key attractions include the atmospheric woodlands, the River North Esk, and the ruins of an 18th-century gunpowder mill.
Yes, families can enjoy the park. Children often enjoy exploring the ruined mill and the natural surroundings.
It's highly recommended to wear sturdy, waterproof walking boots due to potentially boggy and muddy conditions on the trails. +1
Yes, there are picnic tables available in the park, making it a lovely spot for an outdoor meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The atmospheric woodlands, the River North Esk, the ruined gunpowder mill, and the surrounding natural beauty offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The diverse flora, fauna, and scenic landscapes make it a prime location for nature photographers.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, creating a magical atmosphere in the glen.
Yes, the remnants of the 18th-century gunpowder mill are a popular subject for photographers.
Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. However, always be respectful of the natural environment and any private property.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combining a visit with a trip to the nearby Rosslyn Chapel can make for a fuller day out. The park's free entry and ample parking also make it an attractive option for a budget-friendly family outing. Just be prepared for the possibility of muddy conditions and ensure everyone has suitable clothing and footwear.
🚶 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Remember to check the weather and wear appropriate gear, as the trails can become challenging after rain. Redditors often highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to find quieter spots by venturing further into the glen.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Roslin Glen
Many visitors recommend venturing off the most obvious paths to discover hidden gems. For instance, heading left past Rosslyn Chapel and the caravan park can lead you into deeper forest beauty with fewer people.
Navigating the Glen
While the park is accessible by public transport, having a car can offer more flexibility. However, for those relying on buses, routes like the 37 or 47 from Edinburgh are convenient options.
The proximity to Rosslyn Chapel also means you can combine a visit to this historic site with a walk in the glen, though remember they are separate attractions with their own access. Historical Echoes in Roslin Glen
These ruins offer a tangible connection to the area's industrial past and are a fascinating point of exploration for visitors. The mill's location, nestled beside the cliff face and a small waterfall, adds to its atmospheric appeal. Beyond the mill, the glen itself has a long history, with mentions of religious significance dating back to Pictish times, particularly in relation to the nearby Rosslyn Chapel.
While the chapel is a separate entity, its presence and historical weight contribute to the overall aura of the area. Some visitors have noted remnants of other old buildings along the tracks, hinting at a richer, more layered history waiting to be uncovered. Discovering the Past
Exploring these historical sites adds another dimension to a visit to Roslin Glen. It's a chance to step back in time and imagine the lives of those who worked and lived in this secluded valley centuries ago. The blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue makes Roslin Glen a unique and captivating destination for those seeking both tranquility and a touch of historical discovery.
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