Home Report Roslin

Roslin is a historic village in Midlothian, Scotland, situated about 7 miles (11 km) south of Edinburgh’s city centre. Nestled on high ground above the wooded valley of the North Esk River, the village enjoys an elevated rural setting with picturesque views. Roslin lies just east of the A701 trunk road and is bordered by other Midlothian communities; it is approximately 3 miles from the town of Loanhead to the north, around 5 miles west of Bonnyrigg, and only 2 miles northeast of the larger town of Penicuik. Despite its proximity to Edinburgh and these nearby settlements, Roslin has retained the character of a tranquil commuter village, offering a peaceful countryside atmosphere within easy reach of the capital. The population remains modest at roughly 1,750 residents, contributing to a close-knit community feel.

Roslin’s history dates to the 11th century when it became the seat of the St Clair family. It gained prominence with the founding of Rosslyn Chapel in 1446, famed for its intricate carvings and later for its association with The Da Vinci Code. In the 19th century, the village developed as a mining community with nearby industrial works in Roslin Glen. The Battle of Roslin (1303) and the romantic heritage landscape made the area notable. In 1996, Roslin again made headlines as the place of Dolly the sheep; the first mammal cloned from an adult sheep cell.

Roslin is now largely a commuter village, with most residents working in Edinburgh city centre, or larger nearby towns in Midlothian. Nearby research facilities are significant local employers. Local employment also centres on tourism (especially Rosslyn Chapel), hospitality, and education. The Easter Bush Campus, home to the Roslin Institute and veterinary school, provides scientific and academic jobs nearby. While heavier industry has faded, the local economy remains stable through commuter links and niche employment sectors.

When it comes to transport links, despite its rural feel Roslin is well-connected. By Road the A701 links directly to the Edinburgh City Bypass (A720), making car travel to Edinburgh city centre and further afield relatively easy. Lothian Buses’ 37 service offers frequent links to Edinburgh and Penicuik. By rail, the closest station is Eskbank about 5 miles away, with regular trains to Edinburgh via the Borders Railway established in 2015.

Despite its small size, Roslin offers a selection of local amenities that cover everyday needs, and it benefits from being close to larger shopping and service hubs when required. Residents find that basic services are available in the village, while major retail or specialised services are only a short trip away in nearby towns. With Edinburgh itself being only 7 miles away it allows for fast access to the capital and all attractions and amenities therein.

One of Roslin’s greatest strengths as a place to live is the wealth of outdoor leisure activities and natural beauty available in and around the village. Whether one is interested in history, outdoor pursuits, or community recreation, Roslin offers a rich and varied lifestyle. Undoubtedly the jewel in Roslin’s crown, Rosslyn Chapel (often spelled “Rosslyn” for the chapel, though the village is “Roslin”) is a world-famous historic landmark that residents have the privilege of having as their “local” chapel. Founded in 1446, this late-Gothic chapel is celebrated for its breathtakingly intricate stone carvings and the many legends that surround it. The chapel remains an active place of worship but is open to visitors and offers guided tours that even locals find continually fascinating. Its connection to the Knights Templar and Holy Grail lore (though more mythical than historical) and its prominent role in The Da Vinci Code have made it an international attraction, drawing visitors from across the globe. The Chapel is also a cultural venue hosting occasional concerts, lectures, and community events on its grounds.

When it comes to education in and around Roslin there is strong provision. Roslin Primary School is the village’s own primary and in 2017, a brand new school facility was opened, giving pupils and staff a modern building with excellent resources. For secondary education, students in Roslin typically attend Beeslack Community High School in Penicuik. Located about 3 miles away on the northern edge of Penicuik, Beeslack High School is a well-established comprehensive school that offers education for 12 to 18-year-olds. Although Roslin is a village, it benefits from close proximity to several further and higher education institutions, making it convenient for residents pursuing post-secondary studies or vocational training. Most prominently, the University of Edinburgh’s Easter Bush campus is virtually on Roslin’s doorstep just to the west of the village. This campus is home to the Royal School of Veterinary Studies and the Roslin Institute, as well as other research and teaching facilities.