Linlithgow Palace – A Ruin With Attitude
There’s more to this former residence of the Stuart dynasty, and birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, than just four walls and courtyard
LIKE many of buildings in the care of Historic Environment Scotland, Linlithgow Palace’s popularity has been growing steadily. Last year’s visitors to this magnificent building rose to over 87,000, 17 per cent up year-on-year.
It’s one of Scotland’s main attractions, and it’s no wonder why. Situated on a high mound, backed by Linlithgow Loch, it strikes you as soon as you reach the centre of the West Lothian town. “The palace has got something for everyone,” says HES cultural resources advisor Nicki Scott. “The views are spectacular and on a clear day you can see for miles from Queen Margaret’s Bower at the top of the north-west tower.”
The Bower was where the queen waited for the return of her husband, James IV, from the Battle of Flodden. She waited in vain as he died on the battlefield.
“I think the architecture is another big draw,” continues Nicki. “Every time I go there I notice something new in the building and the walks around the loch to appreciate the wildlife are a treat.
“There is a small exhibition displaying objects found in and around the palace that tell its story. And if you need more information, the stewards are knowledgeable and friendly. Plus, it’s close to Blackness Castle which is also fascinating, though in a very different way to the palace.
“The fact that Mary Queen of Scots was born there is a big attraction too. She’s one of the most iconic figures in Scottish history.”
The building might be only a shell, and a magnificent one at that, but you don’t have to use your imagination to turn back the clock a few centuries.
“We’ve recently installed new interpretation panels at the site, which include a number of reconstruction illustrations,” says Nicki. “These have been based on new research and expert advice and help bring the site back to life.”
One of the palace’s main attractions is the recentlyrestored stone fountain in the courtyard.
“The major restoration work we carried out in the
early 2000s returned it to much of its former glory. And we believe it to be the oldest working fountain in Great Britain. When it runs, on certain days in the summer, it adds a special quality to the courtyard.”
The history of the palace goes back to the 12th century when a royal manor existed on the site. Edward I of England replaced it as a fortification but it was the Stuart dynasty that developed the place, with the Kings James I, III, IV and V adding significant additions to a formal royal household.
However, on the Union of the Crowns in 1603, it ceased to be used as a royal residence.