Follow in the footsteps of Mary, Queen of Scots (without getting your head chopped off)

LINLITHGOW PALACE

HERS is a tale of betrayal, murder, loss, abdication and great misfortune. The story of Mary Stuart lives on with the film release of Mary Queen of Scots, though it seems the real woman remains as foreign to us as Scotland must have seemed to her upon her return from France at the age of 19. Discover the truth for yourself by paying a visit to the many attractions that have a link to her.

Not only was Linlithgow Palace the birthplace of Mary but, after the death of her father King James V, when she was just six days old, she was subsequently named Queen of Scotland here. Mary’s predecessors had poured great wealth into refining the magnificent palace that was once a favoured dwelling of Stuart kings and queens.

Mary spent the first seven months of her life locked away in its opulent rooms. Her mother, Mary of Guise, had the unnerving task of protecting the little queen as custody meant power, and they were heavily “guarded” by senior nobles.

To delve into the origins of Mary, including her parents’ legacy and their cherished residence, Linlithgow Palace is full of intrigue.

The ruin affords access to rooms with many prominent traces of historic designs and carvings. Roaming the stone arched corridors, climbing up the spiral staircases and looking out from the roof tower over Linlithgow Loch gives you a sense of the place. Peering down into the large courtyard, it’s easy to let your imagination take hold and picture a busy 16th-century community. Don’t forget to pay your respects to Mary at the statue just outside the palace.

DUMBARTON CASTLE

At five years old Mary was betrothed to the Dauphin Francois in efforts to unite Scotland and France. Once the union was made legitimate, she was transported to Dumbarton Castle to make her journey to Paris. Sailing from the castle, Mary didn’t know if she would ever return to her native land. It was here that her future perhaps looked brightest.

Like Mary, Dumbarton Castle is linked to many dramatic tales. Once considered one of Scotland’s greatest strongholds, the medieval castle sits on Dumbarton Rock, a volcanic plug active over 350million years ago. Climb the 500 steps to see far over the River Clyde and Loch Lomond. The castle has endured being sacked by Vikings, has been used as a fortress and has links to the Scottish Wars of Independence.

RADISSON BLU, EDINBURGH SLEEPING MATTERS

In the heart of Edinburgh on the historic Royal Mile, this four-star hotel is surrounded by culture. Guests are a short walk from Edinburgh Castle, the Scottish Parliament and Princes Street. The hotel is classy and extremely spacious, with 238 stylish rooms.

Despite the busy location, all the rooms are well soundproofed, so guests should have no trouble nodding off. The beds are very comfortable and spacious, and there is the option of a pillow menu if you feel you want to change them.

LEISURE

The Melrose Spa is on the basement floor, below the reception. The signature massage is a popular choice and is a simple option if you’re not used to visiting spas. Clients receive a 50-minute full body massage in a cosy and tranquil candlelit room. There is also a sauna, steam room, indoor heated swimming pool and gym.

SUPERB HOSPITALITY

The Itchychoo Bar and Kitchen prides itself on using the finest Scottish ingredients to create delicious lunch and dinner dishes. The menu is reasonably priced and there is a great variety of options.

Guests are also welcome to dine at Cucina, which is five minutes away from the Radisson Blu in the Radisson Collection, on the corner of George IV Bridge. This eatery is much pricier, with mains between £13 and £30, but the higher cost is reflected in the superb hospitality.

DRINK IN THE SIGHTS Cucina is complemented by the sophisticated Epicurean bar at the Collection, which serves a range of cocktails, as well as wines, spirits and draught beers. The Oaxaca Dream, which is dominated by a smoky tequila-type spirit called Montelobos Mezcal, comes highly recommended.