Linlithgow Palace

Linlithgow, United Kingdom

The Linlithgow Palace was one of the principal residences of the monarchs of Scotland in the 15th and 16th centuries. Although maintained after Scotland's monarchs left for England in 1603, the palace was little used, and was burned out in 1746. It is now a visitor attraction in the care of Historic Environment Scotland.

A royal manor existed on the site in the 12th century. This was replaced by a fortification known as 'the Peel', built in the 14th century by occupying English forces under Edward I. The site of the manor made it an ideal military base for securing the supply routes between Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle. The English fort was begun in March 1302 under the supervision of two priests, Richard de Wynepol and Henry de Graundeston.

In 1424, the town of Linlithgow was partially destroyed in a great fire. King James I started the rebuilding of the Palace as a grand residence for Scottish royalty, also beginning the rebuilding of the Church of St Michael immediately to the south of the palace. Over the following century the palace developed into a formal courtyard structure, with significant additions by James III and James IV. James V was born in the palace in April 1512. James V added the outer gateway and the elaborate courtyard fountain. The stonework of the South façade was renewed and unified for James V in the 1530s.

The Duke of Cumberland's army destroyed most of the palace buildings by burning in January 1746. The palace has been actively conserved since the early 19th century. The site is open to visitors all year round. In summer the adjacent 15th-century parish church of St Michael is open for visitors, allowing a combined visit to two of Scotland's finest surviving medieval buildings.

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Founded: 1302
Category: Castles and fortifications in United Kingdom

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

James Minton (3 months ago)
We didn’t get to go in as it was closed on that day. But we were able to get all the way around the perimeter and the grounds around it. Very peaceful and large palace setting. Plus there is a statue of Marry Queen of Scotts. Very cool entrance and church on the grounds as well. Worth the visit for sure.
Sten (Piqued Wanderer) (4 months ago)
Serene, pretty and awesome.. This castle has a lot of history that we would definitely recommend to anyone, to pop over and visit. The castle is still under renovation but the works are part of the attraction as it shows what has been damaged before n what is also being worked on. We wanted to enter but due to time, we decided to spend the time around the palace instead. Serenity at its best. If we had the whole day to reflect and unwind, then this is one of the places to go to. Walking around the loch and palace reveals much of the beauty that nature has got to offer. There are benches as well to just sit back n relax while you absorb the sights n sounds. A thumbs up for the person caring this place. Looks very well-maintained and clean. So ya, go on n pop over for a visit. And ya, carpark is fortunately free and best to just donate Abit for them to sustain the whole place. Cheers!
Matt Graves (6 months ago)
Really interesting and historically important palace for Scottish history, Mary Queen of Scotts was born here. It's a ruin now but very well maintained with good information boards throughout. Shop, parking and toilets there. Small entrance fee.
Fernanda Cardozo (6 months ago)
It’s so beautiful and well preserved. It’s really big so prepare yourself for a god 3 hours exploration. Lots of stairs if you are like me to go up all the way then get ready. But really it is amazing and worth visiting.
Scott Taylor (8 months ago)
Really enjoyed exploring the Palace. Staff are approachable, friendly and knowledgeable. Got a great workout climbing all the stairs. Beautiful location with plenty of photo opportunities. It's open to the elements so bring a rain jacket and warm clothing if the weather's not great. Can easily spend an hour or two here. No restaurant on site but there is a gift shop and the town is a short walk if you fancy something to eat. Highly recommend visiting. We visited on a Saturday and it wasn't too busy.
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