Dalkeith Country Park spreads along the River Esk on the old Buccleuch estate, and it’s one of Scotland’s best places to catch the snowdrops in late winter. There are woodland walks, some handsome old bridges, and the big Fort Douglas adventure playground for kids. The parkland is free to walk; you pay for the play area and parking. Shawfair station is a couple of km to the north-west.
