Maiden Castle, Lasswade: Ancient Fortifications of Midlothian
Explore the subtle earthworks and ancient mysteries of Maiden Castle, a prehistoric fortification nestled in the scenic Midlothian landscape.
Maiden Castle in Lasswade, Midlothian, is a historic earthwork site likely dating from the late Bronze Age or Iron Age, featuring two low mounds separated by a ditch. Unlike the famous Dorset hillfort of the same name, this Scottish Maiden Castle is smaller and thought to be a defensive promontory fortification, possibly a motte and bailey or ceremonial site, with origins between 1000 BC and 200 AD. Today, only subtle earthworks remain, offering a glimpse into Scotland’s prehistoric past.
A brief summary to Maiden Castle
- Lasswade, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain includes uneven earthworks and natural paths.
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the site's subtle features and riverside views.
- Bring a map or GPS device since signage on site is minimal.
- Combine your visit with nearby historical sites in Midlothian for a fuller prehistoric experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Maiden Castle from Edinburgh takes about 30 to 40 minutes via the A720 and A6094. Limited parking is available near the site, so plan accordingly. No parking fees apply.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Edinburgh to Lasswade with a journey time of approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Bus stops are within walking distance of the site, but services may be infrequent, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
From Lasswade village center, it is a 15 to 20-minute walk over uneven terrain to Maiden Castle. The path includes natural earthworks and may be slippery in wet weather, so suitable footwear is recommended.
Maiden Castle 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 Maiden Castle
Ancient Origins and Archaeological Mystery
Maiden Castle in Lasswade is believed to have been occupied during the late Bronze Age or Iron Age, approximately between 1000 BC and 200 AD. The site consists primarily of two low earth mounds with an intervening ditch, situated on a promontory formed by a sharp meander of the River North Esk. Unlike larger and more famous hillforts, this Maiden Castle’s remains are subtle, and its precise function remains uncertain. Archaeologists debate whether it was a defensive fortification, a ceremonial enclosure, or even intermittently occupied, as no definitive structures survive above ground.Debate Over Motte and Bailey Classification
Some sources suggest Maiden Castle may have been a motte and bailey, a type of Norman fortification introduced after the 11th century. However, this theory is contested because motte and bailey castles are rare in the Lothians region, where local lords often built stone castles instead. The earthworks at Maiden Castle do not clearly match typical motte and bailey features, and no bailey remains have been identified. The site’s origins likely predate Norman influence, making it more probable that Maiden Castle was an earlier hillfort or ceremonial site rather than a medieval castle.Geographical Setting and Strategic Importance
The site’s location on a river promontory provided natural defensive advantages, with steep slopes on several sides and a man-made ditch cutting off access. This strategic positioning would have made it a stronghold or gathering place in prehistoric times. The surrounding landscape of Midlothian includes many ancient sites, indicating a rich cultural and tribal history. Maiden Castle’s earthworks, though modest today, hint at a community that valued defense and territorial control.Legacy and Preservation
Today, Maiden Castle is a protected archaeological site within Midlothian. The visible earthworks offer visitors a chance to connect with Scotland’s distant past, though the site is quiet and understated compared to larger hillforts elsewhere. Its enigmatic nature invites reflection on the lives of early inhabitants and the evolving use of the landscape over millennia. Preservation efforts focus on maintaining the earthworks and preventing damage from modern development.Historical Context Within the Region
Midlothian and East Lothian are home to numerous ancient sites, and Maiden Castle fits into this broader prehistoric landscape. Unlike the famous Maiden Castle in Dorset, England, which is a vast Iron Age hillfort, the Scottish Maiden Castle is smaller and less understood. Its name’s origin is unclear, and the site may have served multiple purposes across centuries, from defensive refuge to ceremonial ground.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visiting Maiden Castle offers a tranquil and contemplative experience amid gentle earthworks and natural surroundings. The site’s subtle features require imagination to appreciate the scale and significance it once held. Its riverside setting enhances the peaceful ambience, making it a quiet spot for history enthusiasts and those interested in Scotland’s ancient heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maiden Castle
0.0 km
Explore the subtle earthworks and ancient mysteries of Maiden Castle, a prehistoric fortification nestled in the scenic Midlothian landscape.
Roslin Memorial
1.9 km
A serene memorial honoring the 1303 Battle of Roslin, a pivotal Scottish victory during the Wars of Independence.
Roslin Parish Church
2.1 km
Explore the historic Roslin Parish Church, a serene haven of spirituality and stunning architecture in the heart of Roslin village.
Melville Castle Hotel
3.5 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
3.7 km
Experience medieval grandeur and modern luxury at Dalhousie Castle Hotel and Spa, nestled in scenic Scottish parkland near Edinburgh.
The Caiy Stane
5.9 km
A 2.7-meter prehistoric stone marking ancient mysteries on Edinburgh's southern edge.
Newton Tower
6.6 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
7.5 km
Experience historic Scottish charm and elegant celebrations at Monkton House, a unique 15th-century castle wedding venue near Edinburgh.
Historic Environment Scotland
8.1 km
Victorian hospital turned heritage headquarters, where Scotland's architectural legacy is preserved and celebrated.
Innocent Railway Tunnel
8.4 km
Explore Scotland’s oldest railway tunnel, a historic horse-drawn coal route transformed into a vibrant urban walking and cycling path in Edinburgh.
Arthur's Seat
8.6 km
Climb Edinburgh’s ancient volcanic peak for breathtaking panoramic views and a journey through natural and historic wonders.
Meadows Compass
8.9 km
A serene landmark at the heart of Edinburgh’s beloved green space, blending history, community, and nature.
McEwan Hall, The University of Edinburgh
9.2 km
Edinburgh's Renaissance masterpiece: where academic tradition meets architectural brilliance since 1897.
Surgeons' Hall Museums
9.2 km
Explore Edinburgh’s historic Surgeons' Hall Museums, where medical history, pathology, and surgical innovation come vividly to life in a landmark setting.
Vogrie Country Park
9.3 km
Vogrie Country Park: A serene escape into nature with stunning landscapes and outdoor activities in Gorebridge, ideal for families and nature lovers alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dryden Tower
1.8 km
Discover the historical allure of Dryden Tower in Roslin, Scotland - a perfect blend of architecture, nature, and heritage.
Rosslyn Chapel
1.8 km
Discover the intricate stone carvings and timeless mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel, a medieval gem just outside Edinburgh.
Rosslyn Castle
2.0 km
Explore the majestic Rosslyn Castle, a historical landmark rich in Scottish heritage, surrounded by stunning landscapes and captivating legends.
Roslin Glen Country Park
2.1 km
Explore ancient woodlands, riverside trails, and historic ruins in the tranquil Roslin Glen Country Park near Edinburgh.
Roslin Gunpowder Factory
3.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Scotland’s largest historic gunpowder mill nestled in the serene Roslin Glen Country Park.
Tesco Superstore
3.9 km
Your all-day, everyday Tesco Superstore in Dalkeith Hardengreen, offering groceries, fuel, clothing, and travel money services under one roof.
Gilmerton Cove
4.3 km
Explore the mysterious hand-carved sandstone tunnels beneath Edinburgh’s Gilmerton, where history and legend intertwine in an underground labyrinth.
Glencorse House
4.5 km
Exclusive historic wedding venue with a romantic 17th-century kirk and stunning natural grounds in the Pentland Hills near Penicuik.
National Mining Museum Scotland
4.7 km
Explore Scotland’s coal mining heritage at the historic Lady Victoria Colliery, with immersive tours, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly experiences.
Gore Glen Woodland Park
5.0 km
Discover tranquil woodland trails and panoramic Pentland Hills views in Gore Glen Woodland Park, a natural oasis rich in wildlife and history.
The Flotterstone Inn
5.5 km
Historic coaching inn turned cozy pub and restaurant, nestled at the gateway to Edinburgh’s Pentland Hills with hearty fare and scenic charm.
Dalkeith Corn Exchange
5.6 km
Historic 19th-century Jacobean-style Corn Exchange turned vibrant museum and cultural landmark in Dalkeith’s heart.
Castlelaw Hill Fort
5.8 km
Explore the ancient Iron Age Castlelaw Hill Fort and its mysterious underground earth house nestled in the scenic Pentland Hills near Edinburgh.
Dalkeith Country Park
5.9 km
Explore 1,000 acres of adventure, history, and nature just minutes from Edinburgh at Dalkeith Country Park.
Fort Douglas Adventure Park
6.2 km
A magical adventure playground for children set within the historic and scenic Dalkeith Country Park near Edinburgh.
Essential places to dine
The Radhuni
1.3 km
Experience authentic Indian and Bangladeshi flavors in a stylish, spacious setting with exceptional service at The Radhuni in Loanhead.
The Paper Mill
2.3 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
2.4 km
Modern Italian dining and craft cocktails beside the River North Esk in charming Lasswade.
Gigi's Italian Restaurant
2.7 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
3.7 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
4.0 km
A cozy gastropub and inn in Dalkeith offering hearty meals, comfortable rooms, and a welcoming Scottish atmosphere with a rooftop terrace and garden.
The Melville Inn
4.1 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
4.2 km
A cozy, family-friendly pub on Edinburgh’s outskirts, famed for its hearty carvery and welcoming atmosphere.
Justinlees Inn
4.4 km
A welcoming Dalkeith pub offering diverse British and vegan menus, friendly service, and a family-friendly atmosphere with reasonable prices.
The Steading
4.5 km
A cozy Edinburgh pub near Hillend ski slope serving hearty British classics and gluten-free options in a rustic, welcoming setting.
Memories of India
4.8 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Gorebridge, Midlothian.
Beijing Banquet
5.1 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
5.4 km
A beloved Dalkeith institution serving authentic Italian classics with wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta since 1968.
The Coronation Restaurant
6.2 km
Cozy Midlothian eatery serving hearty Scottish classics with standout steaks and warm, attentive service in a welcoming atmosphere.
Royal Hotel Bar & Restaurant
6.8 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes and vibrant atmosphere at the Royal Hotel Bar & Restaurant in Penicuik.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Home Bargains
2.3 km
Budget-friendly Home Bargains in Loanhead offering great value on household essentials and more in a convenient retail park setting.
8 Yards Ltd
4.1 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
4.5 km
Explore Ideal Store in Newtongrange for unique tools, quality home supplies, and local craftsmanship that will enhance your travel experience.
B&M Store
5.2 km
Affordable shopping with a wide selection of discounted goods in the heart of Dalkeith’s High Street.
Mr Melts Wax
5.2 km
Discover handcrafted candles and unique home decor at Mr Melts Wax, Dalkeith's charming homewares shop.
The Kitchen at Restoration Yard
6.3 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
6.3 km
Discover a unique blend of curated shopping, seasonal dining, and wellness in a historic stableyard at Dalkeith Country Park.
B&M Home Store with Garden Centre
7.8 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.
Everyone's Designs
8.6 km
Discover unique, eco-friendly gifts and artistic cards at Everyone's Designs, Edinburgh’s creative heart on Bruntsfield Place.
Nice Stuff
8.7 km
Discover unique, affordable gifts and stylish homewares in Edinburgh’s charming Bruntsfield neighborhood.
Emporium 62
9.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s rich heritage through unique antiques and collectibles at Emporium 62, a charming treasure trove on Home Street.
Freak Unique
9.2 km
Edinburgh's eclectic fashion sanctuary for those who dare to dress differently.
Edinburgh Art Shop
9.3 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.
The Enchanted Galaxy
9.4 km
A magical emporium in Edinburgh blending fandom treasures with Scottish charm for a unique shopping adventure.
Galaxy
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Royal Oak
2.2 km
A cozy and affordable British pub in Bonnyrigg, offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a warm local atmosphere.
Laird & Dog Inn
2.4 km
A charming traditional inn in Lasswade offering hearty Scottish fare, friendly service, and a cozy base near Edinburgh.
The Dean Tavern
4.5 km
A traditional Scottish pub in Newtongrange offering great food, excellent beer, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Old Colliery
5.0 km
Friendly family pub near Edinburgh with hearty food, dog-friendly perks, and a proud mining heritage in a welcoming community setting.
Ship Inn
5.3 km
A welcoming traditional pub on Dalkeith’s High Street offering hearty fare, local ales, and a friendly community atmosphere.
The Hermitage Bar
7.7 km
A welcoming gastropub in Edinburgh’s Morningside offering classic British comfort food, local brews, and a vibrant neighborhood atmosphere.
Salisbury Arms Edinburgh
8.1 km
A stylish gastropub blending traditional charm with fresh British fare and vibrant local atmosphere in Edinburgh’s southside.
The Argyle and Cellar Bar
8.5 km
A vibrant Edinburgh pub with cozy cellar music, quality ales, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Argyle Place.
Ballie Ballerson
9.3 km
Edinburgh’s iconic ball pit cocktail bar blending playful fun, creative drinks, and vibrant nightlife in a historic setting.
Captain's Bar
9.3 km
Historic Edinburgh pub with daily live Scottish folk music, local ales, and a warm, intimate atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Frankenstein
9.4 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.
The Oz Bar
9.4 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Three Sisters
9.5 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
Dragonfly
9.5 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
The Raging Bull
9.5 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
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.
Legends
9.5 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
9.5 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Bongo Club
9.5 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
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.
The Liquid Room
9.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Club Tropicana
9.9 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
10.1 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
El Barrio Latino
10.1 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.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
10.1 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
10.1 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
10.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Opal Lounge
10.2 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Historic
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly