Top 10 Best Hotels in Midlothian

Why Midlothian Is One of Scotland's Most Rewarding Places to Stay

Midlothian sits just south of Edinburgh, wrapped between the Pentland Hills and the Moorfoot Hills, and it has quietly become one of the smartest bases for visitors to the Scottish capital. The Borders Railway links Eskbank, Newtongrange and Gorebridge to Edinburgh Waverley in well under half an hour, while the A720 City Bypass puts the airport and the wider Lothians within easy reach. Yet once you are here, the pace slows. Wooded river valleys, historic estates and villages such as Roslin, Lasswade and Bonnyrigg give the area a character that city-centre hotels simply cannot match.

The hotel scene reflects that mix of heritage and convenience. Midlothian is home to genuine castle hotels, family-run coaching inns and reliable branded properties that suit business travellers and families alike. Below, we look at the ten best hotels in Midlothian based on reputation, guest experience, setting and value.

What Makes a Great Midlothian Hotel

Before diving into the list, it helps to know what separates a good stay from a great one in this part of Scotland. Location matters: properties near the Borders Railway or the bypass make exploring Edinburgh effortless. Character matters too, because many visitors come specifically for the castles, chapels and estates that define the region. Finally, hospitality is key. The best hotels here combine warm Scottish service with quality local food, often using produce from Lothian farms and nearby coastal waters.

The Top 10 Hotels in Midlothian

1. Dalhousie Castle Hotel

Set above the River South Esk near Bonnyrigg, Dalhousie Castle is one of Scotland's most celebrated castle hotels. Parts of the building date back to the thirteenth century, and guests can dine in the atmospheric vaulted Dungeon Restaurant, relax in the hydro spa and watch falconry displays in the grounds. It is a favourite for weddings, anniversaries and anyone wanting a true Scottish castle experience within a short drive of Edinburgh.

2. Melville Castle Hotel

Surrounded by parkland near Lasswade, Melville Castle is an elegant eighteenth-century Gothic mansion with a romantic, secluded feel. Its individually styled bedrooms, four-poster suites and intimate bar make it ideal for couples and small celebrations. The estate walks along the North Esk add to the sense of escape, while the city bypass is only minutes away.

3. Borthwick Castle

Near North Middleton, Borthwick Castle is one of the best-preserved fifteenth-century tower houses in Scotland, with a history that includes a famous visit from Mary, Queen of Scots. It operates largely as an exclusive-use venue, making it an outstanding choice for private gatherings, family reunions and weddings where guests want the entire castle to themselves.

4. The Original Rosslyn Inn

Located in the heart of Roslin village, this historic inn is just a short walk from the world-famous Rosslyn Chapel. It offers comfortable rooms, hearty pub dining and a friendly local atmosphere. Visitors exploring Roslin Glen Country Park or the chapel find it an especially convenient and characterful base.

5. Roslin Glen Hotel

Another well-regarded Roslin property, the Roslin Glen Hotel is known for its relaxed, welcoming style and good-value rooms. It appeals to walkers, history enthusiasts and families who want easy access to the glen's woodland trails and the attractions of southern Edinburgh.

6. The Laird and Dog Inn

This traditional inn in Lasswade combines cosy accommodation with a popular bar and restaurant. It is a great fit for travellers who value authentic local hospitality, and its position near the bypass makes it practical for both leisure and business stays.

7. Glencorse House

Nestled on a private estate at the foot of the Pentland Hills near Penicuik, Glencorse House is best known as a luxurious exclusive-use and wedding venue. Its landscaped grounds, historic ruins and hillside views create a stunning backdrop for special occasions and group retreats.

8. Premier Inn at Straiton

For dependable comfort at a sensible price, the Premier Inn near Straiton Retail Park and Loanhead is hard to beat. Consistent rooms, easy parking and quick access to the A720 and A701 make it popular with contractors, shoppers and families visiting the nearby Midlothian Snowsports Centre.

9. Travelodge on the Edinburgh Southeast Corridor

Budget-focused travellers heading to Midlothian often choose Travelodge properties along the southeast approach to Edinburgh. They deliver straightforward, affordable rooms and flexible booking, which suits short stays, event visits and road trips toward the Scottish Borders.

10. Dalkeith Area Inns and Guest Houses

Around Dalkeith and Eskbank, a cluster of independent inns and guest houses offers personal service and local knowledge. Staying here places you close to Dalkeith Country Park, the Restoration Yard and the Eskbank railway station, blending convenience with small-town charm.

Hotel Trends in Midlothian

Several trends are shaping the Midlothian hotel market. Exclusive-use castle venues continue to grow as couples and corporate groups seek private, memorable settings. Sustainability is increasingly important, with properties investing in energy efficiency, local sourcing and reduced single-use plastics. The Borders Railway has also shifted visitor behaviour, encouraging tourists to stay outside central Edinburgh and commute in, often saving money while enjoying quieter surroundings. Meanwhile, the growth of outdoor tourism around the Pentland Hills Regional Park has increased demand for walker-friendly and pet-friendly rooms.

Tips for Choosing the Right Hotel

Consider the purpose of your trip first. Castle hotels suit romantic breaks and celebrations, inns are perfect for walkers and history lovers, and branded hotels work well for business and short stays. Check transport links if you plan to spend time in Edinburgh, and book early for the summer festival season, when accommodation across the Lothians fills quickly. Finally, read recent guest reviews to get a sense of current service standards and dining quality.

Final Thoughts

Midlothian proves that you do not need to stay in the city centre to enjoy the best of Edinburgh. Whether you are sleeping in a medieval tower, relaxing in a Gothic mansion or enjoying a pint at a village inn, the hotels on this list offer heritage, comfort and genuine Scottish warmth. Pick the one that matches your style, and you will discover why so many visitors choose Midlothian as their home away from home.