This half day  is set in beautiful unspoilt countryside, and offers an overview of a local "principality" of spiritual and historical importance, unrivalled in Scotland since. The trail through  Midlothian centres on Rosslyn Chapel and other lesser known architectural sites that were significant in their connection to Rosslyn in in its heyday.

Rosslyn Chapel is undoubtedly the best example of a medieval chapel carved in stone in Europe. We explore other local sites starting with the ancient headquarters of the Knights Templar at Temple where a ruined chapel now stands in a serene setting..

The old chapel in the old Cistercian abbey crypt at Newbattle Abbey nearby features a leper's squint, magnificent marquetry flooring and an ancient and enigmatic baptismal font relating to Mary Queen of Scots and her mother Mary of Guise who features at Rosslyn also. (Grounds are open for roaming but new policy in this adult college is to charge £4 entry fee so alternative of Borthwick Church is offered too) 

Further local sites can be explored in the full day version of this tour.