Linlithgow Palace

Explore the magnificent ruins of the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Linlithgow Palace was built and added to over two centuries by the Stewart kings, resulting in a superb Renaissance residence.

About Linlithgow Palace

	Linlithgow Palace Kirkgate, Linlithgow EH49 7AL
	01506842896
	Linlithgow Palace Website
	Facebook information can be found here

Listed Under Attractions - History and Culture

This impressive retreat was an ideal place for royals to break the journey between Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle. High towers look out over lush greenery and a loch brimming with wildfowl, which is today a Site of Special Scientific Interest cared for by our rangers.

Several monarchs were born in this royal ‘pleasure palace’, surrounded by its peaceful gardens and grounds. Our annual Spectacular Jousting event each summer harks back to the days of medieval tournaments on Linlithgow Peel.

What to see and do:

Step inside the ruins of Mary Queen of Scots’ birthplace

Gain unique insights into the domestic life of Scottish royalty

See the ornate fountain in action every Sunday in July and August

Admire elegant architecture such as the oriel windows of the king’s and queen’s bedchambers

Enjoy open views from Queen Margaret’s Bower over the peel and loch to the Forth bridges

Have a picnic by the loch and spot some local wildlife

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Upcoming Events at Linlithgow Palace

Tour

Trees in Winter

18th January 2026

Linlithgow Palace, Linlithgow

Join a ranger to learn the tips and tricks to identify trees in winter around the lovely setting of Linlithgow Peel and Loch on Sunday 18th January!

Tour

Winter Wetland Wander

1st February 2026

Linlithgow Palace, Linlithgow

Join a ranger on Sunday 1st February to celebrate World Wetland Day and discover why the wetland of Linlithgow Loch is so important for wildlife!

Family and Kids

Linlithgow Family Adventure

11th February 2026

Linlithgow Palace, Linlithgow

Aimed at age 5yrs+, come along and discover more about Linlithgow's wildlife, history and landscape with these fun filled sessions at at Linlithgow Loch and Peel.

Music

Party at the Palace

8th August 2026 - 9th August 2026

Linlithgow Palace, Linlithgow

Party at The Palace is coming home this summer! The annual festival returns to The Peel, right next to the Palace, on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th August!

History and Culture

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The Royal Yacht Britannia Ocean Drive, Leith EH6 6JJ

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National Museum of Flight Scotland

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Blackness Castle

Blackness Castle , Blackness EH49 7NH

Blackness Castle stands by the Firth of Forth, at the port that served the royal burgh of Linlithgow in medieval times.

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The Real Mary Kings Close

2 Warriston's Close, Edinburgh Old Town EH1 1PG

Edinburgh's deepest secret, the Real Mary King’s Close is buried deep beneath the Royal Mile... a warren of hidden streets that has remained frozen in time since the 17th Century!

History and Culture