What to do in Bonnyrigg

Activities, attractions and tours

The west front of Dalhousie Castle near Bonnyrigg, Midlothian, Scotland. More images.
Photo by RHaworth (Creative Commons Attribution 2.5)
The west front of Dalhousie Castle near Bonnyrigg, Midlothian, Scotland. More images.
Photo by RHaworth (Creative Commons Attribution 2.5)
The south east corner of Dalhousie Castle near Bonnyrigg, Midlothian, Scotland seen from the bridge over the Redside Burn. More images.
Photo by RHaworth (Creative Commons Attribution 2.5)
Dalhousie Castle. 13th Century, now a luxury hotel.
Photo by Richard Webb (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)
Dalhousie Castle
Photo by Richard Webb (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)

Bonnyrigg Attractions

Let Expedia help you to experience the best that Bonnyrigg has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to Bonnyrigg, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to Bonnyrigg with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Places of interest in Bonnyrigg

Bonnyrigg is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in Bonnyrigg, and make it a breeze to explore Bonnyrigg and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Bonnyrigg to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit to Bonnyrigg, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in Bonnyrigg.

Bonnyrigg attractions

Bonnyrigg has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in Bonnyrigg to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Bonnyrigg.

Looking for things to do in Bonnyrigg can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of Bonnyrigg or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Bonnyrigg attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails!

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Top places to visit

1. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, the oldest building in the city, sits high on a craggy volcanic rock just near the city center. During its history, which spans almost a thousand years, the stronghold has witnessed sieges, served as a military base and provided refuge for Scottish monarchs.
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Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh, Scotland

2. Royal Mile

Go for a sightseeing trip along the Royal Mile, a series of streets that forms the main artery of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the oldest part of the city. This ancient cobblestone route stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It has been used by pedestrians for hundreds of years, and houses some of the city’s most fascinating old buildings.
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sunset time, Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland

3. University of Edinburgh

Explore the campuses of the University of Edinburgh and soak up the academic atmosphere in its museums and galleries. Sights such as the quad of the Georgian Old College and the Gothic towers of New College on the Mound are iconic parts of the cityscape.
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University of Edinburgh which includes heritage architecture and heritage elements

4. Edinburgh Zoo

Escape to the Edinburgh Zoo for a few hours of animal-based adventures. Spread over an 82-acre (33-hectare) site, the zoo has a collection of more than 1,000 animals representing almost 200 species.
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Edinburgh Zoo showing marine life and zoo animals

5. National Museum of Scotland

Be engrossed for hours in the National Museum of Scotland’s fascinating exhibits. This celebrated attraction packs hundreds of displays into its high-ceilinged galleries and white-marble corridors. A comprehensive look at Scottish history adds local interest, while exhibits dedicated to anthropology and technology give the museum a global perspective.
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National Museum of Scotland showing interior views

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Recommended things to do in Bonnyrigg

Number of things to do
539
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Edinburgh: Old Town's Highlights Walking Tour: £4
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Bonnyrigg

Popular places to visit

Edinburgh Castle which includes heritage elements and a castle

Edinburgh Castle

Fortress, palace and repository of the crown jewels, this landmark overlooking the city has played a crucial role in Scottish history.

Edinburgh Castle
Royal Mile featuring street scenes, heritage architecture and a house

Royal Mile

Explore this area in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town to find ancient buildings, historic relics, shops, museums and range of dining options.

Royal Mile
Walter Scott Monument in the Rainy Day, Edinburgh, Scotland

Princes Street

During your trip to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Princes Street. Experience the entertainment choices and fascinating museums in this walkable area.

Princes Street
Scenic sight in Edinburgh with the Castle in the background. Scotland.

Grassmarket

During your visit to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Grassmarket. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Grassmarket
Aerial view of Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Roseburn St, Edinburgh, VK

Murrayfield Stadium

Catch an event at Murrayfield Stadium and enjoy other activities in Edinburgh such as golfing.Discover the lively festivals and shops in this walkable area.

Murrayfield Stadium
University of Edinburgh which includes heritage architecture and heritage elements

University of Edinburgh

The campus of Edinburgh's venerable educational institution is spread seamlessly around the architecture of the city and opens to the public during year-round events.

University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh Zoo showing land animals and zoo animals

Edinburgh Zoo

See rare and endangered species and learn about the efforts to conserve them at Edinburgh’s largest wildlife attraction.

Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh royal playhouse theater

Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre

Enjoy a performance at Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, a theatre with a story to tell in Edinburgh. Experience the area's fascinating museums and lively festivals.

Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre
street view of George street at Edinburgh, scotland

George Street

During your trip to Edinburgh, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at George Street. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

George Street

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Bonnyrigg

Melrose Abbey, Melrose

Dalkeith

The Watch House, Old Pentland Kirkyard. Where watch was kept to prevent grave robbing by the 'anatomists' - see 968090 for a bit more information.

Loanhead

This is a photo of listed building number

Eskbank

Calton Hill which includes a sunset, skyline and a city

Edinburgh

River North Esk, Lasswade, Midlothian.

Lasswade

History of coal mining in Scotland

Newtongrange

Cottages at Carrington Barns

Carrington

Field on.Crawlees Road, Early July

Gorebridge

Frequently asked questions

Is Bonnyrigg worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of fun things to do in Bonnyrigg. Be sure to experience the area's blend of awesome sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Bonnyrigg?
Begin your day with a visit to Edinburgh Castle and Edinburgh Zoo. Then, explore different areas of Bonnyrigg for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Bonnyrigg?
The top tourist attraction in Bonnyrigg is Edinburgh Castle, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Bonnyrigg?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off popular city attractions, such as Grassmarket, Portobello Beach and St. Giles' Cathedral. The average stay in Bonnyrigg is two days. If you have the urge to extend your getaway, Edinburgh isn't far away.
Is Bonnyrigg a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and top attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Bonnyrigg is a good place to see on foot. Wander between Dalhousie Castle and Gilmerton Cove. Then take a stroll around Gilmerton, located 3 kms (2 miles) from downtown, and Eskbank, which is about 2 kms (1 mile) away.
What are some activities to do in Bonnyrigg with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a fun-filled itinerary sets the tone for a great escape. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Bonnyrigg with kids.

What to do in Bonnyrigg for adults?
Scotch Whisky Experience and Glenkinchie Distillery are just two of the things to do in Bonnyrigg. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Bonnyrigg?
In Bonnyrigg, Grassmarket is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to enjoy the city without taking their wallet out. Also, stroll around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a top way to find out about the best free things to do in Bonnyrigg.

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