Linlithgow Palace
7 minute walk from Linlithgow station · Edinburgh and South East
Located 15 miles west of Edinburgh, Linlithgow Palace stands as the ruins of a grand 15th and 16th-century residence for Scottish monarchs. Originally a 12th-century manor and later a 14th-century fortification known as "the Peel," the site was transformed by King James I into a formal courtyard palace. It is famous as the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, and James V.
Visitors can explore a site rich in royal history, featuring an elaborate courtyard fountain and an outer gateway added by James V. Notable features include the Great Hall, a chapel once decorated with fine azurite and stained glass, and the south façade. The palace grounds also include a park and a loch, which formerly featured an eel-trap and a tennis court in the garden.
Managed by Historic Environment Scotland, the palace offers a glimpse into the lives of royalty. You can see where James IV hosted Spanish ambassadors with tapestries and music, or where the infant Mary, Queen of Scots, was cared for in her own chamber. From the ornate stonework to the site of the former royal apartments, the palace remains a significant testament to Scotland's regal past.
Visitor information
- Place type
- Palace
- Good for
- Architecture, Castles, Lochs, rivers & waterfalls, Scenic viewpoints
- Characteristics
- Lakeside, Nationally significant, Ruin
- Admission
- Paid admission
- Region
- Edinburgh and South East
Stations within walking distance
- Linlithgow station — 7 min walk, 0.5 km
Other places near Linlithgow
- Linlithgow Museum — 4 min walk from the station
- Linlithgow to Falkirk — 4 min walk from the station
- Union canal: Linlithgow to Ratho — 4 min walk from the station
- St Michael's Church — 6 min walk from the station
- St Peter's Episcopal Church — 6 min walk from the station
- Linlithgow Loch Fishery — 7 min walk from the station