Linlithgow Palace
Linlithgow makes for a great day out from Edinburgh. Why not visit on your next stay with us at Parliament House Hotel? The historic Scottish town in West Lothian is easy to reach by train from Edinburgh Waverley and takes only around 20 minutes. One of the highlights of a day trip to Linlithgow is, of course, Linlithgow Palace. This palace ruin was once a royal residence and is a fascinating place to explore today.
History of Linlithgow Palace
The palace was built from the year 1424, on the orders of King James I. It was one of the main royal residences in Scotland. And situated in between Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle, it became a popular place for royals to stop and rest during their travels between the two castles. Notably, James V was born there in 1512, and Mary Queen of Scots in 1542.
After the union of the Scottish and English crowns in 1603, King James VI of Scotland became also James I of England, and he moved the royal court to London. From this time, Linlithgow Palace fell into decline. Then in 1746, a great fire engulfed the building, destroying much of it.
‘Great history lesson here and the views from the different levels are beautiful. Walk around the gardens they are gorgeous.’
– Linlithgow Palace Tripadvisor Review
Visiting the palace
Although now in ruin, many of the details have remained intact and there is a lot to see on a visit here. You can explore the courtyard and see the amazing three-tiered fountain adorned with mermaids, unicorns, human heads and more. The fountain dates from 1538 and supposedly once flowed with wine in honour of Bonnie Prince Charlie. Enter the great hall, royal apartments and chapel royal. You can also climb up the stone steps to Queen Margaret’s Bower, a tall turreted tower. Legend has it, Queen Margaret watched out here for King James VI to come back from the Battle of Flodden. Though he was killed in battle and never did return.
Please see opening times and ticket prices for the palace here. You can also visit the surrounding parkland for free, with benches, picnic tables, a walking path and loch.
