Fort Douglas Adventure Park at Dalkeith Country Park
A magical adventure playground for children set within the historic and scenic Dalkeith Country Park near Edinburgh.
Fort Douglas Adventure Park is a vibrant, family-friendly playground located within Dalkeith Country Park near Edinburgh. Designed for children up to 12 years with a dedicated toddler area, it offers interactive play zones including treehouses, zip wires, climbing walls, and rope bridges. Open year-round with seasonal hours, it invites parents and carers to join the fun in a safe, natural setting surrounded by historic parkland and woodland.
A brief summary to Fort Douglas Adventure Park
- Country Park, Dalkeith, EH22 1ST, GB
- +441316541666
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-1 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-1 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-1 pm
- Thursday 10 am-1 pm
- Friday 10 am-1 pm
- Saturday 10 am-1 pm
- Sunday 10 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to secure your preferred session and avoid disappointment, especially during peak times.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult over 18; no dogs are allowed inside the playground for safety reasons.
- Visit The Hive on weekends to observe local honeybees in a custom glass enclosure, a fascinating experience for all ages.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Dalkeith Country Park’s ancient woodlands and historic architecture for a full day of exploration.
- Parking is available for a small fee; consider public transport options like train to Eskbank station or Lothian Bus to Dalkeith High Street.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
Take a train from Edinburgh City Centre or the Borders to Eskbank Station, approximately a 25-minute journey. From Eskbank, enjoy a 25-minute walk through Dalkeith Country Park to reach Fort Douglas. This route offers a scenic approach but requires moderate walking on park paths.
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Bus and Walk
Use the number 46 Lothian Bus from Tesco Hardengreen to Dalkeith High Street, with a travel time of around 30-40 minutes. From Dalkeith High Street, it’s a 5 to 10-minute walk to the park entrance. Suitable for families with manageable walking distances.
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Car
Drive to Dalkeith Country Park with parking available for a £3 fee, payable on arrival by card or online. The main vehicle entrance has a 2.7m height restriction; larger vehicles should use the alternative Town Gate entrance. Parking is convenient but limited during peak periods.
Fort Douglas Adventure Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Fort Douglas Adventure Park
A Magical Playground for All Ages
Fort Douglas Adventure Park is a captivating outdoor play space nestled within the expansive Dalkeith Country Park, just a few miles from Edinburgh’s city center. This adventure playground is specially designed for children aged up to 12 years, featuring a separate toddler zone for under-fives. It offers a variety of interactive play equipment such as turreted treehouses, rope bridges, climbing walls, zip wires, slides, and tunnels. The design encourages imaginative play and physical activity, making it a favorite destination for families seeking active outdoor fun.Setting Within Historic Dalkeith Country Park
The park itself spans over 1,000 acres of ancient woodland, riverside paths, and beautifully restored historic architecture. Dalkeith Country Park is steeped in history with buildings designed by notable Scottish architects including James Smith and Robert Adam. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks among 900-year-old oak trees and spot local wildlife such as roe deer, otters, and buzzards. Fort Douglas is seamlessly integrated into this natural and cultural landscape, offering a refreshing blend of nature and adventure.Seasonal Hours and Booking Details
Fort Douglas operates year-round with winter hours from 10:00 to 15:30 daily, split into morning and afternoon sessions to manage visitor numbers and ensure safety. Tickets must be booked online in advance, especially during peak times such as weekends, school holidays, and special event periods. Children must be accompanied by an adult over 18, and dogs are not permitted inside the playground to maintain a safe environment for youngsters.Inclusive Play and Family Engagement
All play zones are designed to be interactive, encouraging parents, grandparents, and carers to join in the fun alongside children. This inclusive approach fosters family bonding and shared experiences in a lively outdoor setting. The playground also hosts special events like birthday parties, providing a perfect venue for celebrations in the fresh air.Additional Attractions and Amenities
Within Dalkeith Country Park, visitors can also explore The Hive, a glass-enclosed observation area showcasing local honeybees, open on weekends. The Restoration Yard offers a store, restaurant, and wellbeing studio in a beautifully restored eighteenth-century stableyard, enhancing the visitor experience with quality food, shopping, and relaxation options. The park provides ample parking (with a small fee), accessible paths, and facilities to accommodate families and visitors of all abilities.A Destination for Year-Round Outdoor Enjoyment
Whether visiting for a few hours or a full day, Fort Douglas Adventure Park and Dalkeith Country Park offer a unique blend of adventure, nature, and heritage. The park’s extensive walking and cycling trails, combined with the engaging playground and amenities, make it a standout destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the city without traveling far.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Newton Tower
1.1 km
Explore Newton Tower, a unique early 17th-century ruined church tower in Dalkeith, rich in history and surrounded by tranquil old gravestones.
Monkton House
2.3 km
Experience historic Scottish charm and elegant celebrations at Monkton House, a unique 15th-century castle wedding venue near Edinburgh.
Melville Castle Hotel
2.9 km
Experience regal Scottish luxury and historic charm at Melville Castle Hotel, a serene castle retreat near Edinburgh with elegant rooms and fine dining.
Dalhousie Castle Hotel And Spa
4.7 km
Experience medieval grandeur and modern luxury at Dalhousie Castle Hotel and Spa, nestled in scenic Scottish parkland near Edinburgh.
Maiden Castle
6.2 km
Explore the subtle earthworks and ancient mysteries of Maiden Castle, a prehistoric fortification nestled in the scenic Midlothian landscape.
Arthur's Seat
7.9 km
Climb Edinburgh’s ancient volcanic peak for breathtaking panoramic views and a journey through natural and historic wonders.
Roslin Memorial
8.1 km
A serene memorial honoring the 1303 Battle of Roslin, a pivotal Scottish victory during the Wars of Independence.
Innocent Railway Tunnel
8.3 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest railway tunnel, a historic horse-drawn coal route transformed into a vibrant urban walking and cycling path in Edinburgh.
Roslin Parish Church
8.4 km
Explore the historic Roslin Parish Church, a serene haven of spirituality and stunning architecture in the heart of Roslin village.
Historic Environment Scotland
8.4 km
Victorian hospital turned heritage headquarters, where Scotland's architectural legacy is preserved and celebrated.
Queen Mary's Bath House
9.2 km
A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Museum of Edinburgh
9.3 km
Discover Edinburgh's vibrant history at the Museum of Edinburgh, where captivating exhibits bring the city's past to life in engaging ways.
Roslin Gunpowder Factory
9.3 km
Explore the historic Roslin Gunpowder Factory, a key site in Scotland's industrial heritage, offering insights into the past amid stunning landscapes.
Robert Fergusson Statue
9.3 km
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
Canongate Kirk
9.3 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Canongate Kirk, a must-visit Presbyterian church in the heart of Edinburgh's vibrant Canongate area.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dalkeith Country Park
0.4 km
Explore 1,000 acres of adventure, history, and nature just minutes from Edinburgh at Dalkeith Country Park.
Dalkeith Corn Exchange
0.7 km
Historic 19th-century Jacobean-style Corn Exchange turned vibrant museum and cultural landmark in Dalkeith’s heart.
Tesco Superstore
2.5 km
Your all-day, everyday Tesco Superstore in Dalkeith Hardengreen, offering groceries, fuel, clothing, and travel money services under one roof.
The Musselburgh Golf Club
3.3 km
Experience championship golf steeped in Scottish heritage, just minutes from Edinburgh’s vibrant heart.
Inveresk Lodge Garden
3.9 km
Discover Inveresk Lodge Garden, a serene hillside haven near Edinburgh, where seasonal blooms, woodlands, and wildlife create a peaceful retreat.
Cousland Smiddy Trust
4.0 km
Experience Scotland’s last working blacksmith forge and village heritage at Cousland Smiddy, where history and craft come alive.
National Mining Museum Scotland
4.3 km
Explore Scotland’s coal mining heritage at the historic Lady Victoria Colliery, with immersive tours, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly experiences.
Gilmerton Cove
4.6 km
Explore the mysterious hand-carved sandstone tunnels beneath Edinburgh’s Gilmerton, where history and legend intertwine in an underground labyrinth.
Newhailes Estate
4.6 km
Explore Newhailes Estate’s elegant Palladian mansion, tranquil woodland walks, and rich Dalrymple family heritage near Edinburgh.
Craigmillar Castle
5.7 km
Explore the medieval charm and royal history of Craigmillar Castle, Edinburgh’s well-preserved fortress with stunning city views and tranquil gardens.
Mavisbank House
5.8 km
Discover Scotland’s first Palladian villa, a historic estate blending Enlightenment ideals, architectural innovation, and pioneering mental health care.
Gore Glen Woodland Park
6.1 km
Discover tranquil woodland trails and panoramic Pentland Hills views in Gore Glen Woodland Park, a natural oasis rich in wildlife and history.
Vogrie Country Park
6.3 km
Explore 105 hectares of Victorian parkland, woodland trails, family fun, and historic charm at Vogrie Country Park in Midlothian.
Newbyres Castle
6.6 km
Discover the evocative ruins of Newbyres Castle, a 16th-century Scottish tower house nestled in tranquil Midlothian countryside.
Portobello Beach
6.8 km
A charming two-mile sandy beach with lively promenade, seaside cafes, and a unique coastal vibe just minutes from Edinburgh city centre.
Essential places to dine
The Cavaliere Italian Restaurant
0.9 km
A beloved Dalkeith institution serving authentic Italian classics with wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta since 1968.
Justinlees Inn
1.9 km
A welcoming Dalkeith pub offering diverse British and vegan menus, friendly service, and a family-friendly atmosphere with reasonable prices.
The Melville Inn
2.3 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
2.3 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub on Edinburgh’s outskirts, famed for its hearty carvery and welcoming atmosphere.
The Mercat Bar & Grill
2.8 km
Discover delightful dishes and refreshing drinks at The Mercat Bar & Grill – where flavor meets fun in Musselburgh.
The Campaign Room Bistro
3.0 km
Historic charm meets seasonal British cuisine in a tranquil mansion setting near Musselburgh.
Craig House Brewers Fayre
3.2 km
Historic charm meets hearty British fare in a family-friendly pub nestled in scenic East Lothian countryside near Musselburgh.
Beijing Banquet
3.2 km
A welcoming Chinese buffet in Edinburgh’s Danderhall, perfect for families and groups craving fresh, flavourful Asian dishes in a relaxed setting.
The Sun Inn
3.3 km
A cozy gastropub and inn in Dalkeith offering hearty meals, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming Scottish atmosphere with a rooftop terrace and garden.
Gigi's Italian Restaurant
3.6 km
Authentic Italian dining in Bonnyrigg with a warm family atmosphere, classic pizzas, pastas, and seafood served daily from noon to midnight.
Luci's Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
3.9 km
Modern Italian dining and craft cocktails beside the River North Esk in charming Lasswade.
The Paper Mill
3.9 km
Historic riverside bar and brasserie in Lasswade offering all-day dining, Scottish craft beers, and live music in a charming setting.
Crolla's Italian Kitchen
4.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern touch in the heart of Musselburgh’s vibrant Courtyard.
The Dungeon Restaurant
4.7 km
A candlelit fine-dining experience in the atmospheric vaults beneath Dalhousie Castle, blending Scottish ingredients with French technique in a storybook setting.
Memories of India
4.7 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Gorebridge, Midlothian.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Kitchen at Restoration Yard
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover a unique blend of curated shopping, seasonal dining, and wellness in a historic stableyard at Dalkeith Country Park.
Mr Melts Wax
1.0 km
Discover handcrafted candles and unique home decor at Mr Melts Wax, Dalkeith's charming homewares shop.
B&M Store
1.1 km
Affordable shopping with a wide selection of discounted goods in the heart of Dalkeith’s High Street.
8 Yards Ltd
2.3 km
Discover bespoke Scottish menswear and over 5,000 clan tartans at 8 Yards Ltd, Dalkeith’s premier kilt and traditional clothing boutique.
Ideal Store
3.6 km
Explore Ideal Store in Newtongrange for unique tools, quality home supplies, and local craftsmanship that will enhance your travel experience.
B&M Home Store with Garden Centre
4.3 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.
Home Bargains
6.5 km
Budget-friendly Home Bargains in Loanhead offering great value on household essentials and more in a convenient retail park setting.
The Just World Shop
7.0 km
Discover fair trade treasures and handcrafted art at The Just World Shop in Portobello, Edinburgh’s ethical craft haven.
The Original Factory Shop (Tranent)
8.8 km
Discover unbeatable bargains on fashion, homewares, and more at The Original Factory Shop in Tranent, your local discount shopping destination.
Meadowbank Shopping Park
9.1 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant shopping park offering diverse stores, extended hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all your retail and dining needs.
Holyrood Gift Shop
9.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and souvenirs in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at Holyrood Gift Shop.
The Wyrd Shop
9.3 km
Edinburgh's esoteric gem on Canongate: crystals, tarot, pagan jewelry, and magickal handmade treasures in a cozy witchy haven.
Prestige Scotland Kilt Maker & Souvenir Shop
9.4 km
Authentic Scottish kilts and Highland dress on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
The Enchanted Galaxy
9.4 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ship Inn
1.0 km
A welcoming traditional pub on Dalkeith’s High Street offering hearty fare, local ales, and a friendly community atmosphere.
Old Colliery
2.6 km
Friendly family pub near Edinburgh with hearty food, dog-friendly perks, and a proud mining heritage in a welcoming community setting.
The Dean Tavern
3.6 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Newtongrange offering great food, excellent beer, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Laird & Dog Inn
3.9 km
A charming traditional inn in Lasswade offering hearty Scottish fare, friendly service, and a cozy base near Edinburgh.
The Royal Oak
4.2 km
A cozy and affordable British pub in Bonnyrigg, offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a warm local atmosphere.
The David MacBeth Moir - JD Wetherspoon
4.7 km
A welcoming JD Wetherspoon pub in Musselburgh offering hearty meals, local ales, and a lively atmosphere from breakfast to late night.
Levenhall Arms
5.3 km
A cozy Musselburgh pub famed for quality real ales, hearty Indian-inspired pub food, and warm local hospitality.
The New Prestoungrange Gothenburg
7.6 km
Historic coastal pub in Prestonpans blending heritage, craft beers, and scenic sea views for a memorable social experience.
Salisbury Arms Edinburgh
8.2 km
A stylish gastropub blending traditional charm with fresh British fare and vibrant local atmosphere in Edinburgh’s southside.
Whispers Lounge Bar
8.3 km
A cozy, family-run pub offering hearty meals and local drinks in the heart of Tranent’s historic High Street.
The Argyle and Cellar Bar
9.2 km
A vibrant Edinburgh pub with cozy cellar music, quality ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Argyle Place.
Captain's Bar
9.4 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
The World's End
9.5 km
Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
The Banshee Labyrinth
9.5 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Ballie Ballerson
9.5 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Mash House
9.5 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
9.5 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
Cabaret Voltaire
9.5 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
9.6 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Sneaky Pete's
9.7 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
9.7 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
9.7 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
9.9 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
10.3 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
10.3 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
10.3 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.
Garibaldi's
10.4 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
Opal Lounge
10.4 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
10.5 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Club Tropicana
10.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
