10/10 Excellent
Lou S.
17 April 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family vacation
Lou S.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
Entire home
The Old Millhouse - Luxury Retreat: Sauna and Hot Tub
Photo gallery for The Old Millhouse - Luxury Retreat: Sauna and Hot Tub
Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
5 bedrooms5+ bathroomsSleeps 10371.6 sq m
Popular amenities
Explore the area
Dalkeith
- Dalhousie Castle6 min drive
- Royal Mile16 min drive
- Edinburgh Castle17 min drive
- Edinburgh (EDI)20 min drive
Rooms & beds
5 bedrooms (sleeps 10)
Bedroom 1
1 King Bed
Bedroom 2
1 King Bed
Bedroom 3
1 King Bed
Bedroom 4
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 5
2 Single Beds
Office 1
1 Large Single Sofa Bed
5 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom
Bathroom 1
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Bathroom 2
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Bathroom 3
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bathtub · Bidet · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Bathroom 4
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Bathroom 5
Soap · Towels provided · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Bathroom 6
Toilet
Spaces
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden
About this property
The Old Millhouse - Luxury Retreat: Sauna and Hot Tub
Historic Edinburgh Holiday Let: The Old Millhouse - Luxury 5-Bedroom Scotland Retreat
Discover The Old Millhouse, a magnificent 18th-century stone manor house (built 1703) offering luxury holiday accommodation near Edinburgh, Scotland. This completely renovated historic property sits on 3.5 acres of pristine gardens alongside the picturesque River South Esk, providing the perfect Edinburgh vacation rental for discerning guests.
Premium Edinburgh Accommodation - Sleeps up to 10 Guests
Our exclusive Scotland holiday let features 5 individually designed bedrooms, each with private en-suite facilities. Four bedrooms offer flexible twin/double configurations, making this ideal Edinburgh group accommodation for families, corporate retreats, wedding parties, or luxury getaways. Ground floor accessibility includes a comfortable sofa bed in the snug room, with a dedicated ground-level shower room available from November 2025.
Unbeatable Edinburgh Location & Transport Links
Perfectly positioned for exploring Scotland's capital:
- Edinburgh city centre: 20 minutes
- Edinburgh Airport: 25 minutes
- Excellent bus and train connections to Edinburgh attractions
- Easy access to Scottish Highlands and Edinburgh Festival venues
- Private transport services available upon request
World-Class Golf Holiday Destination in Scotland
The Old Millhouse is a golfer's paradise, offering unrivalled access to Scotland's finest championship golf courses:
- 25 prestigious golf courses within 25 minutes' drive
- Muirfield Golf Course: Home to The Open Championship - just minutes away
- The Renaissance Golf Course: Host venue for the Scottish Open Championship
- Private golf transport services available
- Perfect Edinburgh golf holiday base for groups and corporate golf events
- Access to historic Scottish golf links and parkland courses
Luxury Wellness Amenities - Unique in Edinburgh Holiday Rentals
Transform your Scotland getaway into a wellness retreat with our exceptional facilities:
- Swim Spa: Maintained at 36.5°C year-round for ultimate relaxation
- Wood-Fired Sauna: Newly installed for authentic Scottish wellness experience
- Cold Plunge Pool: Perfect for invigorating wellness routines
- Yoga Sessions: Available in our tranquil gardens or elegant Orangery
- Private Chef Services: Bespoke dining experiences available
Family-Friendly Edinburgh Holiday Home
This Scotland vacation rental caters perfectly to families:
- Travel cots and high chairs provided
- Children's small bed available
- Safe, enclosed 3.5-acre garden estate
- Riverside location for nature exploration
- Easy Edinburgh day trips for family attractions
Perfect for Edinburgh Festival & Events
Our luxury Edinburgh holiday let is ideally located for:
- Edinburgh Festival Fringe accommodation
- Edinburgh International Festival stays
- Hogmanay celebrations
- Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
- Business travel and corporate events in Edinburgh
- Scottish Highlands touring base
- Championship golf tournaments and Scottish Open events
What Makes This Edinburgh Holiday Rental Special
- Historic 1703 stone building with modern luxury amenities
- Exclusive riverside setting with 3.5 acres of private grounds
- Premier Scotland golf holiday destination with championship course access
- Flexible sleeping arrangements for groups up to 12
- Unique wellness facilities rarely found in Edinburgh holiday lets
- Professional bespoke services including private chefs and golf transport
- Premium location for Edinburgh attractions and Scotland touring
Book Your Luxury Scotland Holiday Experience
Experience the perfect blend of historic charm, modern luxury, championship golf access, and Scottish hospitality at The Old Millhouse. Whether seeking a relaxing Edinburgh weekend break, premium Scotland golf holiday, family vacation, or corporate retreat near Edinburgh, our unique property offers an unforgettable stay.
Terms and conditions apply - signed agreement required at booking.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Outdoor space
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10.0 out of 10, (13 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Pets
Pets allowed: dogs less than 9 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load the dishwasher
Remove personal items
Lock the doors
Bed can be left made
Rubbish can be placed in bins provided
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 10
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the area
Dalkeith
Located in Dalkeith, this holiday home is on a river. Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle are notable landmarks, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Grassmarket and Princes Street. Check out an event or a game at Murrayfield Stadium, and consider making time for Edinburgh Zoo, a top attraction not to be missed.
Dalkeith
What's nearby
- Dalhousie Castle - 6 min drive - 5.1 km
- Royal Infirmary - 9 min drive - 7.9 km
- Portobello Beach - 10 min drive - 9.7 km
- Royal Mile - 16 min drive - 12.9 km
- Edinburgh Castle - 17 min drive - 13.3 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- McDonald's - 4 min drive
- Justinlees Inn - 2 min drive
- Lavender - 9 min walk
- Elginhaugh Farm - 4 min drive
- The Blacksmith's Forge (Wetherspoon) - 6 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
10/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
9.8/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Stu D.
21 September 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely stay
Stu D.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022
10/10 Excellent
Andrea M.
21 August 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
wonderful!
Andrea M.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Kim H.
17 August 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family get together
Kim H.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Maureen E.
25 May 2019
The Old Mill House is absolutely stunning. First class accommodations and Sally was superb host!!
Maureen E.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2019
10/10 Excellent
Caroline R.
13 June 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect for a family weekend
Caroline R.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022
10/10 Excellent
Laura O.
10 September 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
A Luxury Home Away From Home
Laura O.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Garrett S.
29 March 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Exquisite property with plenty of space
Garrett S.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022
10/10 Excellent
Dorothy S.
23 June 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Old Mill House
Dorothy S.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Mary Beth M.
4 September 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
My best VRBO experience by far.
Mary Beth M.
Stayed 26 nights in Aug 2021
10/10 Excellent
Elizabeth L.
29 November 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our family thoroughly enjoyed our stay in Scotland. It was the perfect home for us.
Elizabeth L.
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2019
10/10 Excellent
jonathan m.
7 July 2018
I would have put six stars
jonathan m.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.
10/10 Excellent
Thomas D.
17 April 2016
Great family holiday
Thomas D.
10/10 Excellent
MaryCay C.
29 October 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Do Yourself a Favor and Stay Here!
MaryCay C.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2022
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.
10/10 Excellent
Elizabeth B.
9 April 2017
Beautiful house
Elizabeth B.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2017
10/10 Excellent
Irene F.
22 November 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ladies getaway
Irene F.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2021
10/10 Excellent
Jeffrey M.
30 September 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great house and a great location
Jeffrey M.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2020
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer G.
1 January 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Such a lovely home in a beautiful location. Picture perfect and minutes from Edinburgh!
Jennifer G.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2022
10/10 Excellent
robert w.
5 July 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome place
robert w.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019
10/10 Excellent
Brian W.
4 June 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Week stay for Junior World Golf Tournament
Brian W.
Stayed 8 nights in May 2023
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.
10/10 Excellent
Chelsea B.
6 December 2017
Most magical stay!
Chelsea B.
Stayed 8 nights in Nov 2017
10/10 Excellent
Kitty C.
9 August 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Dalkieth Delight
Kitty C.
Stayed 15 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Randy S.
2 September 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent!
Randy S.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Melanie K.
6 July 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Old Millhouse was Fabulous
Melanie K.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.
10/10 Excellent
Dana T.
6 July 2017
Fabulous!
Dana T.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2017
About the host
Hosted by Sally de Waard
My name is Sally I am proud of my heritage as part of Clan McNeil - you might even spot our distinctive tartan around the property. With a lifetime dedicated to hospitality, I've discovered that the secret to exceptional stays lies in those thoughtful little touches that transform a place from simply somewhere to sleep into a true home away from home.
I absolutely love meeting people from all walks of life and hearing their stories. There's something magical about helping guests create wonderful memories, whether that's recommending the perfect local restaurant, sharing hidden gems in the area, or simply ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
You'll likely meet my two adorable companions, William and Fleur - my beloved Dachshunds who are always ready to provide a friendly welcome (though they're very well-behaved if you prefer your space). Living right here in the grounds of our historic old millhouse means I'm always nearby should you need anything at all, but I'm equally skilled at reading when guests want complete privacy to enjoy their retreat.
My goal is simple: to ensure your stay is not just comfortable, but truly special. From the moment you arrive until you reluctantly have to leave, I want you to feel completely at home while experiencing the very best of Scottish hospitality.
---
This captures your warmth, experience, and the perfect balance between being available and respecting privacy that makes for excellent hosting!
Why they chose this property
Here's a heartfelt description about why you love living in Midlothian:
**Why I Love Living in Midlothian**
When you visit, you'll instantly understand what makes this place so incredibly special. I'll never forget the day Mum and I first discovered this house on a gloriously hot June afternoon. It was practically derelict then - honestly, it had maybe only a few weeks left before it would have been beyond saving. But something about it captured our hearts completely.
What I adore most is the perfect balance this location offers. We're nestled in 3.5 acres of beautiful gardens - a genuine countryside retreat where you can lose yourself among the trees and flowers, listen to birdsong, and truly unwind. Yet we're just five minutes from all the conveniences you could need: lovely local shops, fantastic restaurants, and access to some of the most gorgeous walks you'll find anywhere in Scotland.
And then there's Edinburgh - that magnificent city is right on our doorstep! Whether you want to explore the historic Royal Mile, catch a show during Festival season, or simply soak up the culture and atmosphere, it's all easily within reach.
But perhaps what I treasure most is the wonderful community here in Dalkeith. The people are genuinely friendly and welcoming - there's a real sense of belonging that you don't find everywhere. I'm so proud to be part of this community and to call Midlothian home.
This location truly offers the best of both worlds: peaceful rural charm with modern convenience, and I can't wait for you to experience it for yourself.
**Why I Love Living in Midlothian**
When you visit, you'll instantly understand what makes this place so incredibly special. I'll never forget the day Mum and I first discovered this house on a gloriously hot June afternoon. It was practically derelict then - honestly, it had maybe only a few weeks left before it would have been beyond saving. But something about it captured our hearts completely.
What I adore most is the perfect balance this location offers. We're nestled in 3.5 acres of beautiful gardens - a genuine countryside retreat where you can lose yourself among the trees and flowers, listen to birdsong, and truly unwind. Yet we're just five minutes from all the conveniences you could need: lovely local shops, fantastic restaurants, and access to some of the most gorgeous walks you'll find anywhere in Scotland.
And then there's Edinburgh - that magnificent city is right on our doorstep! Whether you want to explore the historic Royal Mile, catch a show during Festival season, or simply soak up the culture and atmosphere, it's all easily within reach.
But perhaps what I treasure most is the wonderful community here in Dalkeith. The people are genuinely friendly and welcoming - there's a real sense of belonging that you don't find everywhere. I'm so proud to be part of this community and to call Midlothian home.
This location truly offers the best of both worlds: peaceful rural charm with modern convenience, and I can't wait for you to experience it for yourself.
What makes this property unique
The Old Millhouse isn't just accommodation - it's a rare sanctuary that offers something you simply won't find anywhere else. This stunning 18th-century stone-built property has been lovingly restored to blend historical charm with 21st-century comfort, creating a perfect harmony between past and present.
Our location is truly magical. We're embraced by the gentle waters of the River Esk, where nature puts on a daily show. You might spot playful otters diving and surfacing, catch sight of trout gliding through the clear waters, and if you're very lucky, witness the occasional salmon making its determined journey upstream. The surrounding grounds come alive with wildlife - badgers emerge in the evening twilight, and each spring we're blessed with the sight of roe deer with her precious babies right here on our land.
Inside, every corner tells a story. I've painstakingly renovated this beautiful property to the most exacting standards, filling it with carefully restored antiques gathered from across Scotland and around the world. Each piece has been chosen not just for its beauty, but for the warmth and character it brings to your stay.
In our increasingly fast-paced world, The Old Millhouse stands as a genuine oasis - a place where time slows down, where you can reconnect with nature, and where the gentle sound of flowing water and rustling leaves replaces the noise of modern life. It's not just unique; it's utterly irreplaceable.
Languages:
English
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