An overview
Midlothian used to be one of the major coalfields of Scotland but that is now just part of the constituency’s history and tradition along with the paper-making industry. Midlothian is now a major player in the new world of bio-technology but is still predominantly industrial and working class. As well as bio-technology new industries include precision engineering, electronics, crystal glass manufacturing and printing.
Tourism also plays an important part, with visitors drawn by the attractions of the
Rosslyn Chapel, Dalkeith Palace,
the Scottish mining Museum,
Butterfly World,
Edinburgh Crystal,
Newbattle Abbey College,
Borthwick castle,
Dalhousie Castle and
Melville Castle – castles, indeed, but also well-established restaurants and hotels. Arniston House is another place of interest – it has been the home of the Dundas family for over four hundred years. The present owners, direct descendants of the first occupants, take pride in opening their home with its wonderful architecture and period contents.
