The Palace stands on the site of a Royal Manor, built of timber about the middle of the 12th Century when David I founded the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow. Edward I of England made Linlithgow his main supply-base when he invaded Scotland to break the siege of Stirling Castle during the Wars of Independence (1296-1356). He strengthened the defences of the Palace at this time. After the Battle of Bannockburn the stronghold passed into the possession of the Scots. Following a fire in 1424 which destroyed the Palace and most of the town, James I began a programme of building which was continued by his successors and completed by James V.
Linlithgow Palace was a favourite residence of all the Stewart monarchs. Both James V and his daughter Mary were born there. If time permits, St Michael's Church and the Burgh of Linlithgow are also well worth visiting. Numbers 44 and 48 High Street are typical 16th/17th century town houses which were restored by the National Trust for Scotland in 1958. (They are now privately let). There is a nature walk around Linlithgow Loch which is an important bird sanctuary and is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Address
Linlithgow, West Lothian. EH49 4AL.
Directions
The Palace is in the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow which is well signposted from the M9 Edinburgh - Stirling motorway. Access to the Palace is up a narrow street which runs north behind the Town House in the Square. The Gatehouse has a low arch. Coaches should set down their passengers in the Square and park 300 metres west beside the Loch, just off the Bo'ness road.
Opening times
1 April - 30 September Monday - Saturday 9.30am - 6.30pm (last admission at 6pm) Sundays 2pm - 6.30pm (last admission at 6pm) 1 October - 31 March Monday - Saturday 9.30am - 4.30pm (last admission at 4pm) Sundays 2pm - 4.30pm (last admission at 4pm) Check with Custodian.
Target groups
All ages.
Charges
Adults £2.00, Concessions £1.25, Children £0.75.
Contact
Address: The Custodian, Linlithgow Palace, Linlithgow, West Lothian. EH49 7AL.
Telephone: 01506 842896