Trails

Under 2km – approx 20 minutes

Also known as The Wildernesse Walk, our Yellow Trail is a relatively flat route with a surface suitable for bikes and buggies. A series of easy loops that take in impressive views of St Mary’s Church and Dalkeith Palace, as well as a little donder along River Esk. Handily, it takes you through Restoration Yard where you can pick up a takeaway coffee and snacks to keep you energised.

Under 2km – approx 30 minutes

Our Lugtonhaugh Walk (Red Trail) is also good for bikes and buggies. It only takes around 30 minutes so not too taxing on littler legs but you’ll reap the rewards visually as it brings you behind Dalkeith Palace and across Montagu Bridge. It’s a pretty walk all year round but it’s particularly stunning in February and May. In February you’ll enjoy the views of pretty snowdrops. While in May a carpet of bluebells will stun you.

The Old Wood 2.4km

Our Old Oak Wood, which you’ll discover on the Old Wood Trail, is precious because it has rare species of beetles and lichen living in it. That’s what makes it a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and it’s why we want to keep it beautiful for generations to come. See if you can spot the Michael Tree. This oak is said to be almost 1,000 years old. The Old Oak Wood Trail follows along the River Esk as well as taking you through the Old Oak Wood. It does partially close over winter to allow for the protection of these precious trees. Also, dogs can walk this trail but please be aware that all dog waste is extremely dangerous for our Old Oak trees’ beetles so keep dogs away from the trees, their fallen tree trunks and limbs (the beetles make their homes in these).

The Hermitage Trail 1km – approx 45 minutes

The Hermitage Trail splits off from the Old Oak Wood Trail just at the Meeting of The Waters where the North and South Esk join. The trail will take you across the river at The American Bridge and around by Belwoods on a path towards Dalkeith Palace via Montagu Bridge. Both these trails are woodland paths so you’ll only manage it on your own two feet. No bikes, buggies or wheelchairs. The Old Wood Trail and Hermitage Trail are each lovely walks in their own right. Combine them together for a beautiful almost 5km walk.

The Estate Trail 6km – 1 hour 30 mins walk or 45 mins cycle

North Woods Green Trail  2km – 30 mins walk or 15 mins cycle

If you want to see a little of everything this is the trail for you. The Estate Trail takes you to the limits of the Park’s boundaries. By bike or by foot, you will see Smeaton Bridge, Castlemeads and lots of our farmland. Add in our North Woods Trail to enjoy a further challenge and more stunning views of Dalkeith Country Park’s 1,000 acres. Both these trails have some uneven elements so are a little more challenging on foot. They can also be used by experienced and careful cyclists.