Penicuik is a burgh and civil parish in Midlothian, lying on the western bank of the River North Esk eight miles from central Edinburgh. The A703 runs through Penicuik and links up with the A720 Edinburgh City Bypass, placing the city centre within easy reach.
Penicuik has two secondary schools, Penicuik High and Beeslack Community High. Its position beside the Pentland Hills Regional Park ensures extensive outdoor space is within a mile of the town centre, which has a selection of shops along the part-pedestrianised John Street.