Dalkeith Museum

The high street in Musselburgh doesn't scream 'museum destination', but Dalkeith Museum tucked away here is genuinely worth an hour of your time if you're staying at Drummohr Camping & Glamping Site or exploring East Lothian. It's a proper local operation run by the history society - the kind of place where volunteers actually know their stuff and aren't just standing about.

Inside you'll find the sort of things that matter to a town: old photographs of Dalkeith as it was, artefacts from the local mining heritage, and bits and pieces that chart the area's working life. There's nothing flashy about it, which is rather the appeal. No interactive screens or twee recreations - just genuine history presented straightforwardly. The collection covers the town's industrial past and its ordinary people, which beats another glossy heritage centre every time.

It's perfect for history buffs or anyone with a genuine interest in how Scottish lowland towns actually functioned. Kids might find it a touch dry unless they're genuinely interested in local history - don't expect them to be entertained for more than 45 minutes. Opening hours are Tuesday to Thursday, 11am to 3pm, so plan accordingly. The town itself offers a bit of a wander, though it's not a destination in its own right. If you're camping nearby though, it's absolutely worth the short drive to spend a couple of hours. Free or paid entry wasn't confirmed, but either way it won't break the bank.