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 | Private Scottish Estate Just Outside Edinburgh | Sleeps 10
Photo gallery for The Old Millhouse | Private Scottish Estate Just Outside Edinburgh | Sleeps 10
Reviews
10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
5 bedrooms5+ bathroomsSleeps 10371.6 sq m
Popular amenities
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
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
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area
About this property
The Old Millhouse | Private Scottish Estate Just Outside Edinburgh | Sleeps 10
The Old Millhouse | Private Scottish Estate Just Outside Edinburgh | Sleeps 10
A long-established private estate with consistent five-star guest reviews, designed for relaxed family gatherings near Edinburgh.
Your private Scottish home base just outside Edinburgh — perfectly positioned for exploring the city, castles and Highlands while returning each evening to complete peace and privacy. Sleeping up to 10 guests across five elegant ensuite bedrooms, The Old Millhouse blends timeless Scottish character with modern comfort, a heated swim spa and beautiful riverside gardens.
One bedroom annex bedroom also available, sleeping two additional guests, situated just yards from the main building
Owner Sally offers a complimentary concierge service to help you plan your Scotland experience before you arrive — from private chefs and golf tee times to sightseeing, dining reservations and unforgettable day trips — ensuring your stay feels effortless from the moment you book.
Designed for Gathering in Comfort
Beautifully restored, The Old Millhouse is an exclusive-use riverside estate created for family vacations, milestone celebrations and memorable trips with friends. The home offers generous shared spaces balanced with private retreats, allowing everyone to gather together without sacrificing comfort.
Five elegant ensuite bedrooms provide restful privacy, each thoughtfully prepared with quality linens and calming interiors — perfect after days spent exploring Scotland.
At the heart of the house is the light-filled Orangery. Oversized windows and skylights bring the gardens inside, creating a warm, welcoming space for morning coffee, relaxed conversation or evening drinks. A spacious dining area invites long, unhurried meals, while large doors open directly onto the lawn for effortless indoor–outdoor living.
Unwind After a Day Exploring
After discovering Edinburgh’s historic streets or taking day trips into the Highlands, return home to your own private wellness experience. The heated swim spa, sauna and cold plunge are included with your stay, offering a restorative way to relax and recharge.
As evening falls, gather by the open log fire, share stories from the day, or simply enjoy the calm of the riverside setting.
Gardens, Riverside Setting & Complete Privacy
Outside, expansive gardens and a spacious patio offer room to breathe, play and reconnect. The fully gated grounds provide complete privacy, creating the feeling of your own secluded Scottish estate while remaining close to everything you’ll want to see.
Complimentary Concierge Planning with Sally
Planning a Scotland trip from overseas can feel overwhelming — which is why guests love the personal support offered by owner Sally. Her complimentary concierge service helps you shape your stay before arrival, from arranging , Airport meet and Greet , or taxi services ,private chefs and yoga sessions to recommending scenic drives, golf experiences, dining reservations and local highlights tailored to your group. Tour guides for exploring other areas of Scotland can also be recommend and arranged.
Perfectly Positioned for Exploring Scotland
Located just outside Edinburgh, The Old Millhouse offers the best of both worlds — peaceful countryside living with easy access to the city’s restaurants, historic landmarks and cultural attractions. Guests also enjoy simple day trips to coastal villages, championship golf courses, whisky distilleries and the dramatic scenery of the Scottish Highlands. Edinburgh Airport is approximately 25 minutes away, making arrival easy after international travel.
Perfect For
• Multi-generational family vacations
• Milestone celebrations and reunions
• Friends exploring Scotland together
• Guests seeking privacy with easy access to Edinburgh
Whether you’re gathering family, celebrating a milestone or simply discovering Scotland together, The Old Millhouse offers something increasingly rare — space to slow down, reconnect and experience the country at your own pace. After days spent exploring Edinburgh and beyond, return to your private riverside estate, where comfort, privacy and thoughtful hospitality make every moment feel effortless. Many guests arrive planning to explore — and leave remembering the time spent together here most of all.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
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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
Child beds ca be added in bedrooms
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Pets
Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 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
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
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, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
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. Travelling with kids? Make time for Edinburgh Zoo, or head to an event or a match at Murrayfield Stadium.
Dalkeith
What's nearby
- Dalkeith Country Park - 7 min walk - 0.6 km
- Newbattle Abbey - 16 min walk - 1.3 km
- Butterfly and Insect World - 4 min drive - 3.3 km
- Royal Mile - 20 min drive - 12.7 km
- Edinburgh Castle - 21 min drive - 13.3 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- McDonald's - 4 min drive
- The Blacksmith's Forge (Wetherspoon) - 6 min walk
- Justinlees Inn - 2 min drive
- Elginhaugh Farm - 4 min drive
- La Cavaliere - 10 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
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
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
Neal L.
2 August 2018
Very special Scottish estate
Neal L.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2018
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
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
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
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
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 my 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 my 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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