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Home > Scotland > Things to do in Lothian Scotland > Linlithgow Palace

Linlithgow Palace

This was the magnificent birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. It sits in a beautiful park (known as a “Peel”) overlooking a large loch. It is located in Linlithgow, West Lothian, postcode EH49 7AL.

What to Expect and Enjoy
Unlike the solid, cramped castles of the era, this was built as a “pleasure palace” for the Stewart kings and queens. It’s grand, airy, and very impressive.

  • The Courtyard Fountain: In the centre of the palace is an incredibly detailed three-tiered fountain. Legend has it that it once flowed with wine when Bonnie Prince Charlie visited!
  • The Great Hall: Known as the “Lion Den,” this massive room would have hosted huge royal banquets. You can still see the giant fireplaces and imagine the scale of the parties.
  • Queen Margaret’s Bower: Climb the spiral stairs to the top of the tower for a small stone room with breathtaking views over the loch. It’s said the Queen sat here waiting for her husband to return from battle.
  • The Loch Walk: After exploring the stone rooms, a walk around the loch is a must. It’s a flat, easy path where you can see swans and ducks.

Best For and Time Spent
A great day out for families because it feels like a giant stone playground. It’s also a favourite for couples and photographers.

  • Duration: Most people spend about 1.5 to 2 hours at the palace, plus an extra hour if you walk the circuit around the loch.

Helpful Tips for Your Visit

  • Parking: There is a small car park at the palace, but it gets busy. There are plenty of public car parks in Linlithgow town just a short walk away.
  • Transport: The palace is very close to Linlithgow train station, which is on the main line between Edinburgh and Glasgow, making it a very easy trip without a car.
  • Nearby: The town of Linlithgow is full of character with lovely traditional pubs and cafes right on the doorstep of the palace grounds.

More Places Nearby

Almond Valley Heritage Centre Arthur’s Seat Blackness Castle Camera Obscura & World of Illusions Dalkeith Country Park Dalmeny House Dirleton Castle and Gardens Dynamic Earth East Links Family Park Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Ghost Tours Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) Edinburgh Zoo Five Sisters Zoo Fountain Park Foxlake Adventures Glenkinchie Distillery Hopetoun House House of the Binns Inveresk Lodge Garden Jupiter Artland Lost Shore Surf Resort Malleny Garden Midlothian Snowsports Centre Murrayfield Stadium Tour Musselburgh Racecourse National Museum of Flight National Museum of Scotland Newhailes House North Berwick Harbour Rosslyn Chapel Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Scottish National Gallery Scottish National Portrait Gallery Scottish Parliament Visitor Centre Tantallon Castle The Edinburgh Dungeon The Palace of Holyroodhouse The Royal Mile The Royal Yacht Britannia The Scottish Seabird Centre
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