Discover Bonnyrigg: History, Monuments and Routes

Bonnyrigg offers several specific themes to explore when planning a trip: church and architectural history, local monuments, routes and sport. When looking for a hotel in Bonnyrigg, you can first decide whether you are interested in historical connections, a route on foot or by bike, or a sport-related theme.

Church and architectural history

Bonnyrigg Parish Church was the first church to be built in Bonnyrigg. Its church building opened in 1845 as Cockpen United Free Church. This links the town’s early church history, a specific opening year and a historical name to a clear point in time.

Another architectural point of interest is the building at 17 and 19 Dundas Street in Bonnyrigg. It is a Neoclassical house dating from the mid-19th century. The two buildings have different historical reference points: the church has the specific opening year of 1845, while the house dates from the middle of the century. In terms of their significance, the church’s role as Bonnyrigg’s first church is central, while the house is notable for its Neoclassical classification.

Monuments and local history

The town’s war memorial is located in King George V Park in Bonnyrigg. Another monument in Bonnyrigg commemorates the miners’ leader Mick McGahey. The monuments offer different perspectives: one is a town war memorial, while the other commemorates a named individual. Alongside architectural history, these memorials provide a distinct way to explore the town’s history.

On foot and by bike

Two different local connections are relevant for activities on foot and by bike. The Penicuik–Dalkeith Walkway passes near Bonnyrigg. National Cycle Route 196 runs from Penicuik to Dalkeith and can be accessed at various points in Bonnyrigg. For planning a bike ride, both the endpoints and the access points in town provide orientation; for the walkway, its proximity to Bonnyrigg is the key connection. Before setting off, check the conditions and access points for Route 196 so you can plan around the entry points that suit you.

Sporting connections

Lasswade Rugby Football Club in Bonnyrigg offers mini rugby for boys and girls from Primary P1 (ages 5 and up) to Primary P7. These age groups provide a clear framework for the programme; its seasonal arrangements may change. If you plan to include mini rugby in your trip, check with the club in advance about its seasonal arrangements. Broomieknowe Golf Club was founded in 1905. The sporting theme therefore brings together two different perspectives: a mini-rugby programme for specific age groups and the historical founding of a golf club.

Discover more destinations: Loanhead, Penicuik, Gorebridge, Rosewell, Polton, North Middleton, Dalkeith, Roslin.

For the broader travel overview: Midlothian.