Living in Roslin
Set amid the rolling hills of Midlothian and just a short drive from Edinburgh, Roslin strikes a blissful balance between rural charm and urban accessibility. With its wooded paths, welcoming pubs, and strong sense of community, it’s a village that offers a slower, more grounded way of life without losing touch with the city. Whether you're looking to spend more time outdoors or simply want a place with character and calm, Roslin is a spot well worth considering.
Is Roslin a good place to live?
Roslin blends natural beauty, historical charm, and modern convenience in a way that feels almost too good to be true. This village may be small, but it punches well above its weight in terms of character and community.
Home to the world-famous Rosslyn Chapel (yes, the one from The Da Vinci Code), Roslin has a magical feel, with the surrounding Roslin Glen offering lush woodland trails and the tranquil River North Esk winding through. The community is welcoming, the views are gorgeous, and the pace of life is just right.
With easy access to Edinburgh, a selection of beautiful homes, and some excellent local amenities, Roslin is a peaceful haven that still keeps you well connected.
What is the transport in Roslin like?
For such a sleepy, storybook village, Roslin is surprisingly well linked. Getting to Edinburgh or beyond is a breeze, whether you’re driving or hopping on public transport.
Roslin by bus
A reliable network of Lothian Buses services the village, making commuting into Edinburgh and nearby towns stress-free. The number 37 bus is your ticket to the capital, running frequently and taking around 45 minutes to reach the city centre. It’s a favourite for both commuters and students heading to the University of Edinburgh campuses nearby. Fancy catching a plane? Roslin’s handy location means Edinburgh Airport is less than 30 minutes away by car or taxi.
Roslin by rail
Roslin doesn’t have its own train station, but nearby stations in Eskbank or Shawfair are just a short drive or bus ride away. From there, you can hop on direct trains into Edinburgh Waverley in under 20 minutes.
Roslin by car
If you’re a driver, the city is well within reach. The A701 is your main artery north into Edinburgh or south toward Penicuik and the Borders. The City Bypass (A720) is also nearby, connecting you easily with the M8, M9, and beyond.
What are the schools in Roslin like?
Roslin might be best known for its historic buildings, but it’s also got some solid educational offerings. For wee ones, Roslin Primary School sits at the heart of the village and is highly regarded, with a nurturing atmosphere and strong community ties.
For secondary education, pupils typically attend Beeslack High School in nearby Penicuik, which offers a broad curriculum and a strong sense of school spirit. There are also independent schools in Edinburgh within easy reach, giving families plenty of choice.
You’re also close to further and higher education, including Edinburgh College and the University of Edinburgh’s King’s Buildings campus, ideal for older learners or staff.
Search properties by school catchment
What are the best things to do in Roslin
It’s hard to overstate just how much this little village has to offer. First stop: Rosslyn Chapel. This 15th-century masterpiece is bursting with mystery, myths, and mind-blowing stonework. Whether you're a history buff or just love a good story, it’s worth visiting more than once.
Then there’s Roslin Glen Country Park, a magical woodland filled with riverside walks, castle ruins, and nature galore. It’s perfect for dog walks, Sunday strolls, and spontaneous picnics.
The Original Rosslyn Inn serves up tasty pub grub in a traditional setting, while The Pentland Hills Regional Park is just up the road for more serious hiking and breathtaking views.
Nearby attractions include the charming town of Penicuik, the Midlothian Snowsports Centre, and Dalkeith Country Park, ideal for family days out or getting back to nature.
Types of property in Roslin
Roslin’s property scene is as appealing as its scenery. Think charming stone cottages, sleek new-builds, and detached homes with proper countryside views.
There are characterful period homes dotted throughout the village, ideal for those who love beams, bricks and a bit of history. Meanwhile, tasteful new developments have brought fresh options for families and downsizers alike, with stylish interiors and energy-efficient features.
Whether you’re after a picture-perfect cottage or a spacious modern home with a garden, Roslin has a property for every stage of life. You’ll find options listed on ESPC, with prices generally offering better value than central Edinburgh... plus a whole lot more tranquillity.
SEARCH HOMES FOR SALE IN ROSLIN
Planning on moving to Roslin?
Steeped in history and surrounded by stunning scenery, Roslin offers peaceful village living with easy access to Edinburgh. It’s an attractive choice for a wide range of buyers, from young professionals to growing families and retirees. Browse all properties for sale in Roslin and find your next dream home with us.
Find a solicitor estate agent in Roslin
You can search our directory of local ESPC solicitor agents. Simply type in Roslin and we’ll give you the contact details and all the information you need on the agent.
FAQs about living in Roslin
Roslin may be best known for its historic charm, but it also offers strong educational opportunities. For young children, the local primary school is well-regarded for its welcoming environment and strong ties to the community. For older students, secondary education is available nearby, with schools offering a broad curriculum and a strong sense of school spirit. Families also have access to a range of independent schooling options within a short commute, providing plenty of choice. The area is also conveniently located near further and higher education institutions, making it ideal for older students or academic staff. For more details on the best schools in Roslin, click here.
As the national body for supporting quality and improvement of learning and teaching, Education Scotland is a great place to look for information on school performance. You can use the website to search for an inspection report in a specific school.
We list the school catchment for every property listing in Roslin on espc.com. To search properties by school catchment area, click here.
For details on schooling in Roslin, please refer to the Midlothian Council website. Along with information on terms dates and how to apply for a school place, you can find a school catchment area.
The average price of homes in Roslin is £286,332. This figure is based on properties marketed and sold through ESPC, in the 3-month period ending on 31/05/2025.
Developed by Taylor Wimpey, Sinclair Gardens is a new community in Roslin, offering 304 high quality homes. With a range of 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes, there are options for all types of house buyers. Another development in Roslin is St Clair Mews by David Wilson Homes, which offers 3 and 4 bedroom houses ranging from £359,995 to £590,995.
For more news and updated on housing developments in Roslin, you can visit the Midlothian Council website.
For details on council tax bands and charges in Roslin, please refer to the Midlothian Council website.
Roslin Glen Country Park offers wooded trails, the River North Esk, wildlife-spotting opportunities, and historic ruins like Rosslyn Castle and Wallace’s Cave. Rosslyn Chapel features children’s activity sheets and family-friendly events, with free admission for kids. The “Enchanted Roslin” adventure trail offers interactive exploration of the Glen, village, castle ruins, and local landmarks.
p>Rosslyn Chapel hosts guided talks and exhibitions and is fully accessible. Roslin Glen includes a visitor centre café, scenic picnic areas, and nature trails steeped in history. The village supports sports through its pavilion, offering lawn bowls, pétanque, pickleball, and touch-rugby sessions, making it a hub for recreational activities.
Community groups include Roslin Families, Friends of Roslin Glen, Guerrilla Gardeners, the Heritage Society, and Brownies. Local events include Roslin Fun Day, the Duck Race, and Tea in the Park. The annual Roslin Village Fete features family races, a dog show, and crafts. Children can also join the weekly Wild-Hive Wildlife Club.
Roslin at a glance*
To find out more about the local market, contact your local ESPC agent today. Find an agent
