Things to do in Rosewell

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo "Rosewell" by M J Richardson (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by M J Richardson (CC BY-SA)
Photo "Rosewell" by Richard Webb (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Richard Webb (CC BY-SA)
Photo "Rosewell" by Richard Webb (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Richard Webb (CC BY-SA)
Photo "Rosewell" by Richard Webb (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Richard Webb (CC BY-SA)
Photo "Rosewell" by John Darcy (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by John Darcy (CC BY-SA)
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

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.
Learn more
Edinburgh Castle which includes heritage elements and château or palace

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.
Learn more
Royal Mile which includes a house, heritage architecture and street scenes

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.
Learn more
University of Edinburgh showing 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.
Learn more
Edinburgh Zoo showing land animals and zoo animals

5. Princes Street Gardens

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the grounds of Princes Street Gardens, the city’s most famous open space. For hundreds of years the area was known as Nor’ Loch, but after a long draining process, the gardens were created in the 1820s.
Learn more
Princes Street Gardens featuring a statue or sculpture and a fountain

What to do in Rosewell

Popular places to visit

Edinburgh Castle which includes heritage elements and château or palace

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 which includes a house, heritage architecture and street scenes

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
Princes Street

Princes Street

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

Princes Street
University of Edinburgh showing 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
Grassmarket

Grassmarket

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

Grassmarket
Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre

Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre

Enjoy a performance at Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, a theatre with a story to tell in Edinburgh. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and entertainment choices.

Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre
George Street

George Street

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

George Street
Princes Street Gardens featuring a statue or sculpture and a fountain

Princes Street Gardens

Spend time in this attractive green space that separates Edinburgh’s Old Town from its 18th-century New Town.

Princes Street Gardens
Photo "Bonnyrigg" by RHaworth (CC BY) / Cropped from original
Photo by RHaworth (CC BY)

Bonnyrigg

Edinburgh

Edinburgh

Photo by Mike Doremus

Roslin

Photo by Davey Currie

Gorebridge

Frequently asked questions

Is Rosewell worth visiting?
From shopping to outdoor adventures and history, there are plenty of fun things to do in Rosewell. Make sure to enjoy the area's blend of awesome attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Rosewell?
Start your adventures with a visit to Edinburgh Castle and Edinburgh Zoo. Then, check out different parts of Rosewell for local dining and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Rosewell?
You can't go home without checking out Edinburgh Castle, rated the top tourist attraction in Rosewell.
Is three days enough to stay in Rosewell?
Three days will be enough time to check out many city highlights, like Dalhousie Castle, Borthwick Castle and Gilmerton Cove. The average stay in Rosewell is three days. If you have the time to extend your getaway, Edinburgh isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Rosewell with kids?
Planning what to do in Rosewell with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're holidaying with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Rosewell for adults?
Scotch Whisky Experience and Edinburgh Gin Distillery are just two of the things to do in Rosewell. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Rosewell?
One of the simplest ways to find free things to do in Rosewell is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without opening your wallet. The Braid Hills is one sight that doesn't have an admission fee.