Explore Roslin: Chapel, Castle and Roslin Glen

Roslin offers two distinct themes to help you plan your trip: the history and carvings of Rosslyn Chapel, and the scenery and trails of Roslin Glen. Rosslyn Castle adds to the area’s historical character, while the walking routes cater to a range of abilities. Consider whether you’d prefer to spend your time focusing on architecture and history, or on the river, woodland and longer trails.

History and carvings at Rosslyn Chapel

Rosslyn Chapel was founded as a family chapel in 1446 and reconsecrated in 1862 under the leadership of the Scottish Episcopal Church. These dates mark distinct chapters in its history. The chapel’s features also make it a special destination for anyone interested in historic architecture: almost every stone surface, inside and out, is covered in carvings. These include mythical animals, intricate foliage patterns and religious figurative sculptures.

The visitor centre has touchscreens, interactive storytelling booths and a dressing-up area. Guides give talks throughout the day about the chapel’s history, the family’s history and notable carvings. As facilities and programme details may change, check the latest visitor information before your visit. This will help you decide which of these offerings best suits your interest in architecture, family history or individual motifs.

Rosslyn Castle and its medieval significance

A ten-minute walk from Rosslyn Chapel leads to Rosslyn Castle. The castle stands on a rocky promontory and is surrounded on three sides by the River North Esk. This setting is a distinctive feature of the building; Rosslyn Castle is also the ancestral home of the St Clair family. The castle is of national significance for understanding medieval castles and their development. A visit therefore adds another chapter of regional architectural and family history to the story of the chapel.

Roslin Glen: woodland, river and cultural landscape

Roslin Glen brings together natural and cultural history. In the valley, 47 hectares of mixed broadleaf woodland are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Roslin Glen is also a cultural landscape developed in the 18th and 19th centuries. Along the River North Esk, Roslin Glen South features a 25-metre-high river cliff. These varied features offer several ways to experience the valley: from its designated woodland and designed landscape to a striking geological formation.

Roslin Glen Country Park has trails through woodland and to the riverbank and weir, wildflower meadows and historic landmarks. The glen also has riverside paths along the River North Esk, where you can spot wildlife; the area is described as peaceful. If you’d like to visit the ruined mill buildings in Roslin Glen South, access them from the country park via the Gunpowder Mill gates. From there, the buildings are about 600 metres upstream. Check local conditions before your visit, as trail conditions can change.

Walks, hikes and getting there

The trails vary considerably in length and difficulty. A ten-minute walk connects Rosslyn Chapel with Rosslyn Castle, while a 13-mile hiking route to the chapel passes through Roslin Glen. Grail Trails offers three routes, ranging from easy family walks to more challenging hikes through the glen. An interactive discovery trail runs from The Original Rosslyn Inn to the gorge and back. Check the latest trail information before setting out, as route details and trail conditions can change.

Roslin village has good bus services in both directions every day. As services and timetables can change, it’s a good idea to check departures for your travel date. This will help you plan your stay around its different highlights—the chapel, castle or trails in the glen.

Discover more destinations: North Middleton, Penicuik, Polton, Gorebridge, Loanhead, Rosewell, Bonnyrigg, Dalkeith

For the broader travel overview: Midlothian.