Roslin Gunpowder Factory: Scotland’s Historic Industrial Legacy
Explore the evocative ruins of Scotland’s largest historic gunpowder mill nestled in the serene Roslin Glen Country Park.
Nestled in the scenic Roslin Glen, the Roslin Gunpowder Factory was Scotland’s largest gunpowder mill, operating from 1804 to 1954. Set along the River North Esk, the site’s ruins reveal a fascinating industrial past tied to mining, quarrying, and wartime munitions production. Today, the remains lie within Roslin Glen Country Park, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and tranquil riverside walks.
A brief summary to Roslin Gunpowder Factory
- Kirkettle Mill, Roslin, EH25 9QB, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as some paths around the ruins can be uneven and overgrown.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the peaceful seating areas within Roslin Glen Country Park.
- Visit the waterwheel building, the most accessible part of the factory ruins, for a tangible connection to the site’s industrial past.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Roslin Castle and Rosslyn Chapel for a full day of cultural exploration.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Lothian Buses service 37 or 47 from Edinburgh city center to Roslin village, with a journey time of approximately 40-50 minutes. Services run frequently during the day but check schedules on weekends. From Roslin village, a 15-minute walk through Roslin Glen Country Park leads to the factory ruins.
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Car
Driving from Edinburgh, the Roslin Gunpowder Factory is about a 25-minute drive via the A7 and B7007. Limited parking is available near Roslin village and the country park entrance. Note that some paths to the ruins are uneven and may not be suitable for all vehicles.
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Train and Walk
Take a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Eskbank station (around 15 minutes). From Eskbank, it is a 5 km (about 1 hour) walk through scenic routes to Roslin Glen Country Park and the factory site. This option suits those who enjoy longer walks and nature.
Roslin Gunpowder Factory location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Roslin Gunpowder Factory
Origins and Industrial Significance
The Roslin Gunpowder Factory was established in 1804 amidst the rolling landscapes of Roslin Glen. For 150 years, it stood as Scotland’s foremost producer of gunpowder, supplying essential materials for mining, quarrying, and military conflicts including the Napoleonic Wars, Crimean War, Boer War, and both World Wars. The factory’s strategic location along the River North Esk allowed it to harness water power via a waterwheel, a vital component in its manufacturing process. The dispersed layout of the buildings across the glen was a deliberate safety measure to prevent chain explosions, reflecting the inherent dangers of gunpowder production.Architecture and Site Layout
The factory’s architecture is characterized by thick-walled, partially buried buildings designed to contain explosions. Positioned into the hillside, the structures blend with the natural terrain, creating a striking juxtaposition of industrial heritage and woodland scenery. The waterwheel building remains the most accessible and intact part of the site, while other ruins are scattered among the trees, offering an evocative glimpse into the past. The cooperage, where barrels were made for storing gunpowder, still stands near the southwestern edge, linking the site to the skilled craftsmanship required for safe storage.Life and Legacy of Workers
The factory was not only a place of production but also a workplace with a human story. Families like the Olds contributed generations of workers, from coopers to powder makers. The hazardous nature of the work is underscored by recorded accidents, including fatal explosions. Despite these risks, the factory sustained a community and played a pivotal role in Scotland’s industrial and military history. After its closure in 1954, the site was transferred to the Forestry Commission and later Midlothian Council, preserving its legacy within the Roslin Glen Country Park.Present-Day Experience and Environment
Today, the Roslin Gunpowder Factory ruins are part of a tranquil country park renowned for its diverse habitats, including woodland paths, riverside walks, and wildflower meadows. Informative signposts and occasional guided events by the Ranger Service enrich visitor understanding. The site invites exploration beyond the main paths, where the crumbling remains evoke a powerful sense of history amid nature’s reclaiming embrace. Picnic areas and seating enhance the peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a reflective day out.Connection to Roslin’s Wider Heritage
The factory sits within a landscape rich in cultural heritage, close to landmarks such as Roslin Castle and the famed Rosslyn Chapel. This proximity offers visitors a layered experience of Scotland’s history, combining industrial, medieval, and spiritual narratives. The Roslin Gunpowder Factory complements these sites by highlighting the region’s role in technological and wartime developments, enriching the story of Roslin Glen as a whole.Conservation and Community Engagement
The site is managed collaboratively with local groups like the Friends of Roslin Glen, who work alongside the Ranger Service to maintain the park’s natural and historical features. Educational programs and outdoor activity kits support environmental learning and community involvement. This stewardship ensures the factory’s remnants remain a protected and cherished part of Scotland’s heritage for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Roslin Parish Church
1.1 km
Explore the historic Roslin Parish Church, a serene haven of spirituality and stunning architecture in the heart of Roslin village.
Roslin Memorial
1.3 km
A serene memorial honoring the 1303 Battle of Roslin, a pivotal Scottish victory during the Wars of Independence.
Maiden Castle
3.1 km
Explore the subtle earthworks and ancient mysteries of Maiden Castle, a prehistoric fortification nestled in the scenic Midlothian landscape.
Dalhousie Castle Hotel And Spa
5.9 km
Experience medieval grandeur and modern luxury at Dalhousie Castle Hotel and Spa, nestled in scenic Scottish parkland near Edinburgh.
Melville Castle Hotel
6.6 km
Experience regal Scottish luxury and historic charm at Melville Castle Hotel, a serene castle retreat near Edinburgh with elegant rooms and fine dining.
The Caiy Stane
6.7 km
A 2.7-meter prehistoric stone marking ancient mysteries on Edinburgh's southern edge.
Newton Tower
9.7 km
Explore Newton Tower, a unique early 17th-century ruined church tower in Dalkeith, rich in history and surrounded by tranquil old gravestones.
Historic Environment Scotland
10.1 km
Victorian hospital turned heritage headquarters, where Scotland's architectural legacy is preserved and celebrated.
Innocent Railway Tunnel
10.5 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest railway tunnel, a historic horse-drawn coal route transformed into a vibrant urban walking and cycling path in Edinburgh.
Monkton House
10.6 km
Experience historic Scottish charm and elegant celebrations at Monkton House, a unique 15th-century castle wedding venue near Edinburgh.
Meadows Compass
10.7 km
A serene landmark at the heart of Edinburgh’s beloved green space, blending history, community, and nature.
Arthur's Seat
10.9 km
Climb Edinburgh’s ancient volcanic peak for breathtaking panoramic views and a journey through natural and historic wonders.
The University of Edinburgh
10.9 km
Discover centuries of academic excellence and iconic neoclassical architecture at the University of Edinburgh’s historic Old College.
McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
11.0 km
Edinburgh's Renaissance masterpiece: where academic tradition meets architectural brilliance since 1897.
Holyrood Park
11.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history of Holyrood Park, a natural gem in the heart of Edinburgh, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Roslin Glen Country Park
1.0 km
Explore ancient woodlands, riverside trails, and historic ruins in the tranquil Roslin Glen Country Park near Edinburgh.
Rosslyn Castle
1.1 km
Explore the majestic Rosslyn Castle, a historical landmark rich in Scottish heritage, surrounded by stunning landscapes and captivating legends.
Rosslyn Chapel
1.3 km
Discover the intricate stone carvings and timeless mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel, a medieval gem just outside Edinburgh.
Glencorse House
2.4 km
Exclusive historic wedding venue with a romantic 17th-century kirk and stunning natural grounds in the Pentland Hills near Penicuik.
Dryden Tower
2.6 km
Discover the historical allure of Dryden Tower in Roslin, Scotland - a perfect blend of architecture, nature, and heritage.
The Flotterstone Inn
3.3 km
Historic coaching inn turned cozy pub and restaurant, nestled at the gateway to Edinburgh’s Pentland Hills with hearty fare and scenic charm.
Mavisbank House
3.7 km
Discover Scotland’s first Palladian villa, a historic estate blending Enlightenment ideals, architectural innovation, and pioneering mental health care.
Castlelaw Hill Fort
4.1 km
Explore the ancient Iron Age Castlelaw Hill Fort and its mysterious underground earth house nestled in the scenic Pentland Hills near Edinburgh.
Penicuik Estate
5.1 km
Historic Scottish estate blending Palladian grandeur, designed landscapes, and modern regenerative hospitality near Edinburgh.
Old Temple Kirk
6.0 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Old Temple Kirk, a medieval church steeped in Knights Templar history and nestled in tranquil Midlothian countryside.
Gore Glen Woodland Park
6.5 km
Discover tranquil woodland trails and panoramic Pentland Hills views in Gore Glen Woodland Park, a natural oasis rich in wildlife and history.
Tesco Superstore
6.9 km
Your all-day, everyday Tesco Superstore in Dalkeith Hardengreen, offering groceries, fuel, clothing, and travel money services under one roof.
National Mining Museum Scotland
7.0 km
Explore Scotland’s coal mining heritage at the historic Lady Victoria Colliery, with immersive tours, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly experiences.
Gilmerton Cove
7.0 km
Explore the mysterious hand-carved sandstone tunnels beneath Edinburgh’s Gilmerton, where history and legend intertwine in an underground labyrinth.
Bonaly Country Park
7.6 km
Explore peaceful woodland trails, reservoir walks, and panoramic city views in Bonaly Country Park, a natural gem on Edinburgh’s doorstep.
Essential places to dine
Royal Hotel Bar & Restaurant
3.7 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes and vibrant atmosphere at the Royal Hotel Bar & Restaurant in Penicuik.
The Radhuni
3.8 km
Experience authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in a stylish, spacious setting with exceptional service at The Radhuni in Loanhead.
The Steading
5.2 km
A cozy Edinburgh pub near Hillend ski slope serving hearty British classics and gluten-free options in a rustic, welcoming setting.
The Paper Mill
5.5 km
Historic riverside bar and brasserie in Lasswade offering all-day dining, Scottish craft beers, and live music in a charming setting.
Luci's Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
5.5 km
Modern Italian dining and craft cocktails beside the River North Esk in charming Lasswade.
Gigi's Italian Restaurant
5.7 km
Authentic Italian dining in Bonnyrigg with a warm family atmosphere, classic pizzas, pastas, and seafood served daily from noon to midnight.
The Dungeon Restaurant
5.9 km
A candlelit fine-dining experience in the atmospheric vaults beneath Dalhousie Castle, blending Scottish ingredients with French technique in a storybook setting.
The Sun Inn
6.6 km
A cozy gastropub and inn in Dalkeith offering hearty meals, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming Scottish atmosphere with a rooftop terrace and garden.
Memories of India
6.9 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Gorebridge, Midlothian.
The Melville Inn
7.2 km
A charming gastropub and inn in Lasswade offering hearty British cuisine, warm hospitality, and cozy accommodations amid scenic Melville Nurseries.
Elginhaugh Farm - Dining & Carvery
7.3 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub on Edinburgh’s outskirts, famed for its hearty carvery and welcoming atmosphere.
Justinlees Inn
7.5 km
A welcoming Dalkeith pub offering diverse British and vegan menus, friendly service, and a family-friendly atmosphere with reasonable prices.
The Coronation Restaurant
7.7 km
Cozy Midlothian eatery serving hearty Scottish classics with standout steaks and warm, attentive service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Beijing Banquet
8.1 km
A welcoming Chinese buffet in Edinburgh’s Danderhall, perfect for families and groups craving fresh, flavourful Asian dishes in a relaxed setting.
The Cavaliere Italian Restaurant
8.4 km
A beloved Dalkeith institution serving authentic Italian classics with wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta since 1968.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Home Bargains
4.4 km
Budget-friendly Home Bargains in Loanhead offering great value on household essentials and more in a convenient retail park setting.
Ideal Store
7.0 km
Explore Ideal Store in Newtongrange for unique tools, quality home supplies, and local craftsmanship that will enhance your travel experience.
8 Yards Ltd
7.1 km
Discover bespoke Scottish menswear and over 5,000 clan tartans at 8 Yards Ltd, Dalkeith’s premier kilt and traditional clothing boutique.
B&M Store
8.2 km
Affordable shopping with a wide selection of discounted goods in the heart of Dalkeith’s High Street.
Mr Melts Wax
8.3 km
Discover handcrafted candles and unique home decor at Mr Melts Wax, Dalkeith's charming homewares shop.
The Kitchen at Restoration Yard
9.3 km
Discover the culinary charm of The Kitchen at Restoration Yard, a delightful restaurant in the heart of Dalkeith Country Park, offering local flavors and scenic views.
Restoration Yard
9.3 km
Discover a unique blend of curated shopping, seasonal dining, and wellness in a historic stableyard at Dalkeith Country Park.
Everyone's Designs
10.0 km
Discover unique, eco-friendly gifts and artistic cards at Everyone's Designs, Edinburgh’s creative heart on Bruntsfield Place.
Nice Stuff
10.2 km
Discover unique, affordable gifts and stylish homewares in Edinburgh’s charming Bruntsfield neighborhood.
B&M Home Store with Garden Centre
10.7 km
Explore great savings and a vast selection at B&M Home Store with Garden Centre in Edinburgh, where home and garden essentials await you.
Emporium 62
10.8 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich heritage through unique antiques and collectibles at Emporium 62, a charming treasure trove on Home Street.
Freak Unique
10.8 km
Edinburgh's eclectic fashion sanctuary for those who dare to dress differently.
Edinburgh Art Shop
11.0 km
Edinburgh Art Shop offers a warm, expert-led art supply experience with quality materials and a creative community spirit in the heart of Edinburgh.
Poundland
11.1 km
Affordable shopping in Edinburgh’s city centre with a vast range of quality products all priced to save you money.
Carnivàle Vintage
11.2 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Royal Oak
5.1 km
A cozy and affordable British pub in Bonnyrigg, offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a warm local atmosphere.
Laird & Dog Inn
5.5 km
A charming traditional inn in Lasswade offering hearty Scottish fare, friendly service, and a cozy base near Edinburgh.
The Dean Tavern
7.0 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Newtongrange offering great food, excellent beer, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Old Colliery
8.1 km
Friendly family pub near Edinburgh with hearty food, dog-friendly perks, and a proud mining heritage in a welcoming community setting.
Ship Inn
8.4 km
A welcoming traditional pub on Dalkeith’s High Street offering hearty fare, local ales, and a friendly community atmosphere.
The Hermitage Bar
9.0 km
A welcoming gastropub in Edinburgh’s Morningside offering classic British comfort food, local brews, and a vibrant neighborhood atmosphere.
The Riccarton Inn
10.1 km
Traditional Scottish pub and cozy inn offering real ales, homecooked food, and convenient lodging near Edinburgh in Currie.
Salisbury Arms Edinburgh
10.2 km
A stylish gastropub blending traditional charm with fresh British fare and vibrant local atmosphere in Edinburgh’s southside.
The Argyle and Cellar Bar
10.2 km
A vibrant Edinburgh pub with cozy cellar music, quality ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Argyle Place.
Ballie Ballerson
11.1 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
The Raging Bull
11.1 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
SKYbar Edinburgh
11.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s skyline with exquisite cocktails and stunning castle views at SKYbar, the city’s premier rooftop destination.
Captain's Bar
11.2 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Dragonfly
11.2 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
Frankenstein
11.3 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Legends
11.3 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Mash House
11.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
11.3 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Bongo Club
11.3 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
La Belle Angele
11.4 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Liquid Room
11.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Cabaret Voltaire
11.4 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
11.5 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Club Tropicana
11.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
11.7 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
11.8 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
El Barrio Latino
11.9 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
11.9 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
Shanghai Nightclub
11.9 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
12.0 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
