Linlithgow Palace
The ruins of a Stewart royal palace beside a loch, the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, with an elaborate fountain in its courtyard.
Located in the town of Linlithgow about 25 kilometres west of Edinburgh, the palace was built for the Stewart dynasty in the 15th and 16th centuries. Mary, Queen of Scots was born here in 1542. The palace was gutted by fire in 1746 and is now a roofless stone ruin. Even so, the great hall, the chapel, the multi-level galleries and the three-tiered carved fountain in the central courtyard are impressive, and from the top of the tower you can overlook Linlithgow Loch. St Michael's Church stands next door. Tickets cost about £10. From Edinburgh Waverley station, the train takes about 20 minutes, and the palace is within walking distance of the station.
Opening hours
About 09:30–17:30 (until 16:30 in winter; check official website)
Nearby sights
- Forth Bridge
- Inchcolm Island
- Cramond Island
- Edinburgh Zoo
- Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
- Stirling Castle
- Dean Village
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh