Linlithgow Palace Edinburgh
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Linlithgow Palace Edinburgh

4.6
·5k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore the romantic ruins of Linlithgow Palace, the magnificent birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, set by a tranquil loch.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Linlithgow Palace Edinburgh

Linlithgow Palace Edinburgh

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the romantic ruins of Linlithgow Palace, the magnificent birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, set by a tranquil loch.

4.6
(5k reviews)

"A gorgeous ruined palace that is almost criminally undervisited. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and potentially money by purchasing your admission tickets in advance online.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

There are many stairs to climb for the best views, so comfortable footwear is a must.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 5,404 reviews

Type

Historical Landmark

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mary, Queen of Scots' Birthplace

Mary, Queen of Scots' Birthplace

Palace Interior

Stand in the very rooms where Scotland's most famous queen was born in 1542.

Instagram+2
The Great Hall

The Great Hall

Palace Interior

Imagine royal banquets and celebrations in this spectacular medieval interior.

Instagram
Panoramic Views from the Turrets

Panoramic Views from the Turrets

Palace Turrets

Climb to the top for breathtaking views over Linlithgow Loch and the surrounding landscape.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Fewer Crowds

To experience Linlithgow Palace's grandeur without the hustle, aim for weekdays outside of school holidays. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene exploration of this historic site. Reddit

Getting There: Train is Key

The train from Edinburgh Waverley to Linlithgow is a quick and easy 30-minute journey, making it an ideal day trip. Reddit+1 Avoid driving if possible, as the bus route can be long and less scenic. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Event days (check schedule)
Why
Jousting & reenactments
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Linlithgow Palace stands on a low hill above a small inland loch. The name Linlithgow means ‘the loch in the damp hollow’. The Stewart queens especially liked the peace and fresh air, and Linlithgow Palace served as the royal nursery in numerous occasions. Once an impressive royal residence of the Stewarts, Linlithgow Palace is today a roofless romantic ruin. Yet exploring the maze-like interior w...
@scotlandhiddenadventures
72.7K likes • 811.7K views

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and potentially money by purchasing your admission tickets in advance online. Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

There are many stairs to climb for the best views, so comfortable footwear is a must. TikTokReddit

Linlithgow Palace stands on a low hill above a small inland loch. The name Linlithgow means ‘the loch in the damp hollow’. The Stewart queens especially liked the peace and fresh air, and Linlithgow Palace served as the royal nursery in numerous occasions. Once an impressive royal residence of the Stewarts, Linlithgow Palace is today a roofless romantic ruin. Yet exploring the maze-like interior w...
scotlandhiddenadventures
114.9K likes • 1.2M views
Mary, Queen of Scots was born at Linlithgow Palace in 1542. At just six days old, her father died and she became queen. She stayed here for 7 months, before being moved to Stirling Castle for greater security and protection. When she was five years old, Mary was taken to France to be brought up in the royal court and to married to Francis the Dauphin. Mary was fond of Francis and when he tragical...
emily.edinburgh
31.4K likes • 677.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Loch

Take a stroll around Linlithgow Loch for stunning palace reflections and peaceful scenery. Reddit

🏰 Combine with Stirling

Consider visiting Stirling Castle on the same day; they're on the same train line. Reddit

Have you visited? This is the stunning Linlithgow Palace, a magnificent Stewart residence on the edge of a loch, between the royal centres of Edinburgh and Stirling. The birthplace of both James V in 1512, and Mary Queen of Scots in 1542, two monarchs — father and daughter — who both inherited the throne of Scotland as just babies. The site has been occupied since Roman times, and as a royal re...
molly_the_historian
62 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Online

Save time and potentially money by purchasing your admission tickets in advance online. Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

There are many stairs to climb for the best views, so comfortable footwear is a must. TikTokReddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Loch

Take a stroll around Linlithgow Loch for stunning palace reflections and peaceful scenery. Reddit

🏰 Combine with Stirling

Consider visiting Stirling Castle on the same day; they're on the same train line. Reddit

📱 Download Historic Scotland App

Enhance your visit with historical context and interactive maps. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Linlithgow Palace for its historical significance, particularly as the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, and its stunning location by the loch. The panoramic views from the turrets are a major highlight, and special events like jousting are a hit with families. However, the numerous stairs can make it challenging for those with mobility issues, and some find the palace's layout a bit confusing to navigate.

"Brilliant day at the jousting and reenactments event on the grounds of the palace. As we'd bought tickets for the event, we were able to access the palace also. Great fun exploring with fantastic views from the top of the tower. The jousting and medieval village together with the authentic music and costumes made for a really enjoyable family day out for not much money. Lots of stuff to get the kids involved"

Phil Watt

"Highly recommend visiting Linlithgow palace! (It's where Mary Queen of Scots was born). The palace was built in the 16th century and you can walk through almost all of it. Caution: there are LOTS of stairs, so if stairs are difficult for you, it may be hard to see the whole palace. One of the cool parts about the palace is that you can go to the top of one of the turrets and look out over the surrounding area--which is gorgeous! Entrance costs £11."

Rachel Keeler

"Went to see the housing and the experience was brilliant, loads to do and everyone was exceptional! Getting to wander around the castle was great and wish I had enough time to explore but there was far to much to do and not enough of the day to do it. Would go again 10/10"

Joe Glancy

What People Like

Birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots
Stunning lochside setting
Panoramic turret views

What People Dislike

Many stairs, accessibility issues
Confusing layout

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way is by train from Edinburgh Waverley station to Linlithgow station, which takes about 30 minutes. Reddit+1 From the station, it's a short, easy walk to the palace. Reddit Driving is an option, but the train is often recommended for its convenience and lack of traffic stress. Reddit

Yes, Linlithgow Palace is very accessible by public transport. Regular train services run from Edinburgh and other major cities directly to Linlithgow station. Reddit+1

Absolutely! Linlithgow Palace makes for an excellent half-day or full-day trip from Edinburgh. The short train journey makes it very convenient. Reddit+1

For a scenic drive avoiding motorways, consider taking the B9080 from Kirkliston, or routes through Winchburgh and the Beecraigs area. Reddit Alternatively, cycling along the canal is also a popular option. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available near Linlithgow Palace, though it can get busy, especially during peak times or events. The train is often a more stress-free option. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to Linlithgow Palace typically costs around £11 for adults, with concessions available. It's always a good idea to check the official Historic Scotland website for the most current pricing. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for special events, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. Instagram

Opening hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Historic Scotland website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit. TikTok

Linlithgow Palace has many stairs and uneven surfaces, making it challenging for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users. While some areas are accessible, a full exploration might be difficult. Reddit

Historic Scotland offers various passes, such as the Explorer Pass, which can provide access to multiple sites, including Linlithgow Palace, and may offer cost savings if you plan to visit several attractions. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The views from the turrets offer stunning panoramic shots of the palace and loch. Reddit The exterior shots with the loch in the foreground are also very popular. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Linlithgow Palace for personal use. However, tripods and professional photography may require special permission. TikTok

Late afternoons often provide beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the romantic ruin aesthetic. Instagram Early mornings can also be magical with fewer people and soft light. TikTok

The intricate stonework of the Great Hall and the imposing facade overlooking the loch are particularly photogenic. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites like Linlithgow Palace to protect the monument and ensure visitor safety. Always check the official guidelines before flying a drone. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly within Linlithgow Palace itself. However, the town of Linlithgow offers several cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Reddit

Linlithgow town offers a range of dining options, from traditional Scottish pubs serving hearty meals to cafes with lighter fare and local bakeries. Reddit

Yes, the parkland surrounding Linlithgow Palace and the shores of Linlithgow Loch provide lovely spots for a picnic. InstagramReddit

Visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics in the designated outdoor areas around the palace. Reddit

Most restaurants and cafes in Linlithgow are accustomed to catering to various dietary needs, including vegetarian and vegan options. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff. Reddit

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