Fordel Cottage sits next to the pretty steading of this arable farm and is surrounded by rolling fields of countryside. While it is not an animal farm, you'll find horses sauntering around the fields outside the property and there'll always be a hare or two to spot. The cottage is well situated to enjoy both the tranquillity of the Scottish countryside, as well as the hustle and bustle of the nearby city and all it has to offer.
The nearest village of Pathhead (3 miles) will provide all the essentials, including a family-run bakery, Post Office and village shop. For larger supermarket shopping, head to Dalkeith (4 miles), and you will also find a pharmacy, additional shops and some restaurants there.
The Restoration Yard and Wellbeing Lab sits within Dalkeith Country Park (5 miles) offering great shopping, homeware, food and drink, giftware and more. There is the Fort Douglas Adventure Park to keep children entertained with treehouses, zip wires, suspension bridges, slides and climbing walls. The Coffee Bar and The Kitchen restaurant offer tasty breakfasts, lunches or afternoon tea using fresh, local produce.
The Secret Herb Garden (10 miles) is set within an old nursery and serves delicious and seasonal produce, such as soups, quiches and cakes which can be enjoyed in the gardens or in the glasshouse.
Travel into the city centre of Edinburgh (11 miles) for a wide choice of bars, cafés and renowned restaurants. Tom Kitchin’s The Kitchin comes highly recommended (be sure to book in advance), as well as Six by Nico, where you’ll be served six courses from their tasting menu, based around a different theme changing every six weeks. Or, taste what’s in season through the tasting menu at Aizle, then have drinks afterwards in the spectacular setting of The Dome (a must-visit at Christmas time for the incredible display of lights).
It’s better to use public transport when heading into the city, as parking can be tricky, but fortunately, Lothian Buses offer regular services from Eskbank and Dalkeith, or there’s a train station just ten minutes away (Eskbank Station), where you can take a short 20-minute ride to Edinburgh Waverley, right in the centre.
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