Linlithgow Palace

Kirkgate, Linlithgow, Edinburgh and Lothian, EH49 7AL, Scotland
1-90 Years
Paid

Description

Linlithgow Palace is a magnificent ruined royal residence in Scotland and the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Once a grand home of the Stewart kings, today it stands roofless yet still impressive and full of history. Set between the town of Linlithgow and the beautiful Linlithgow Loch, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into Scotland’s royal past.

The palace features striking Renaissance architecture built over two centuries, including elegant oriel windows and impressive towers overlooking the loch. Visitors can explore the atmospheric ruins, learn about the domestic life of Scottish royalty, and enjoy views from Queen Margaret’s Bower across the peel and towards the Forth bridges. You can also picnic by the loch, spot local wildlife, take part in a fun fact-finding quiz in multiple languages, and enjoy the annual summer Spectacular Jousting event that recreates medieval tournaments.

Online ticket prices are £10.00 for adults, £8.00 for concessions, and £6.00 for children, while walk-up prices are £11.00 for adults, £9.00 for concessions, and £6.50 for children. Family tickets range from £20.00 to £34.00 online and £21.50 to £37.50 at the gate depending on group size.

A visit to Linlithgow Palace is a memorable experience for history lovers, families, and photographers alike. The dramatic ruins, scenic loch setting, and royal connections make it one of Scotland’s most fascinating historic attractions.

Features

  • Paid
  • Host birthday parties: No

Features

  • 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.
  • 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

  • Step inside the ruins of Mary Queen of Scots’ birthplace
  • Gain unique insights into the domestic life of Scottish royalty
  • 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
  • Take our fun fact-finding quiz (also available in French, Gaelic, German, Italian, Scots and Spanish). 

Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

Online Price

  • Adult (16–64 yrs): £10.00
  • Concession (65+ & unemployed): £8.00
  • Child (7–15 yrs): £6.00
  • Family (1 adult, 2 children): £20.00
  • Family (2 adults, 2 children): £29.00
  • Family (2 adults, 3 children): £34.00

Walk-Up Price

  • Adult (16–64 yrs): £11.00
  • Concession (65+ & unemployed): £9.00
  • Child (7–15 yrs): £6.50
  • Family (1 adult, 2 children): £21.50
  • Family (2 adults, 2 children): £31.50
  • Family (2 adults, 3 children): £37.50

Pricing URL: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/linlithgow-palace/prices-times/

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

1 Apr to 30 Sept: Daily, 9.30am to last entry at 4.15pm (closes 5pm)
1 Oct to 31 Mar: Daily, 10am to last entry at 3.15pm (closes 4pm)

View full opening hours

Address: Kirkgate, Linlithgow, Edinburgh and Lothian, EH49 7AL, Scotland

Post Code: EH49 7AL

Council: West Lothian

County: Edinburgh and Lothia

5

0 Reviews

Rating breakdown

5
80% Complete (danger)
0
4
80% Complete (danger)
0
3
80% Complete (danger)
0
2
80% Complete (danger)
0
1
80% Complete (danger)
0

More Day Outs in Edinburgh and Lothian

Get the best blog stories into your inbox!