Monday May 26th 2025
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Luke Jackson
Tucked deep within Vogrie Country Park in Midlothian, the once forgotten first floor of Vogrie House has been completely transformed into a magical world where stories shimmer, potions bubble, and magic lingers in the air. On Friday 6th June, the doors will officially open to ‘The Bubbling Toad’ – a handmade space where imagination takes centre stage, and the everyday world gently slips away.
The Bubbling Toad will offer something for all ages, from potion classes, fairy trails, handmade crafts beneath a glowing tree to magical stories in a starlit library. Coming soon from summer onwards, they will offer an ever-changing escape room tucked behind a secret hidden door. Suitable for families and adults alike, they will launch with a Victorian themed Escape room, with plans to change the theme every few months. At Christmas time, the team will transform The Fairy Hollow into an Elf’s workshop and The Escape Room will become Santa’s Grotto for a full festive experience for all to enjoy.
The Bubbling Toad offers something truly unique and special with something for everyone, ensuring the space is adaptable and accessible for all, with quiet sessions which will be available across all their experiences, including:
– Potion classes, where spells swirl and cauldrons bubble
– Fairy, woodland and dragon themed parties as well as seasonal celebrations
– Creative sessions for all ages, from crafting to stargazing
– Spaces to play, pause, and reconnect — from the enchanted Fairy Hollow to the dreamy Lunar Library
– Adult craft and design evenings
The Lunar Library can be hired for exclusive use or fortune telling evenings
Lovingly created by Gayanne Potter and her family from Midlothian, The Bubbling Toad is the result of months of vision, craft, and community spirit. What was once a neglected wing is now an immersive escape, filled with twinkling fairy lights, enchanted classrooms, and treasures hidden in every single corner.
The story of The Bubbling Toad is one of transformation. When the council offered Gayanne and her family the first floor of Vogrie House, they saw not decay, but possibility. That first cold January morning, they arrived with paintbrushes, old furniture, storm-felled branches, and a head full of ideas. Room by room, the forgotten mansion was brought back to life, not with contractors or large budgets, but with creativity, craft, and care.
The result is something entirely unique: a handcrafted space that blends artistry, storytelling, and a little bit of mischief.
Gayanne Potter, Founder & Creative Director of The Bubbling Toad commented ahead of the grand opening:
“I wanted to create a space that felt magical and enchanting, somewhere families could enjoy a slower pace for a while and reconnect through different imaginative activities. Take time away from screens, just be swept up in the wonder we’ve created in the different rooms. Magic has no age limit and The Bubbling Toad doesn’t either, it’s for everyone.”
The Bubbling Toad isn’t just somewhere to visit; it’s a place to feel. A place to remember. A place to believe in magic again.
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