1 Linlithgow Palace
Inside one of the most spectacular ruins in Scotland you cannot help but walk in the footsteps of royalty. This royal pleasure palace was where Mary’s story started: her birthplace.
Visit the great hall where banquets were hosted and witness the elaborate restored fountain in action every Sunday in July & August.
Find out more and plan your visit to Linlithgow Palace.
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2 Edinburgh Castle
A mighty fortress, the defender of a nation and a world-famous visitor attraction – Edinburgh Castle has dominated the skyline for centuries.
The castle’s powerful stone walls have withstood many sieges and its sumptuous apartments were an important residence of Scottish kings and queens. Mary gave birth to her son, James VI, at Edinburgh and during the Lang Siege of 1571-3 the Castle was held in her name by her supporters.
Find out more and plan your visit to Edinburgh Castle.
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3 Craigmillar Castle
Admire the city views from the high ramparts of Edinburgh’s ‘other castle’, play hide and seek in its labyrinth of chambers or picnic in its courtyards.
Craigmillar Castle was a happy retreat for Mary, although less so for her troublesome husband Darnley. According to legend, it was here that her nobles met to discuss how to get rid of him.
Find out more and plan your visit to Craigmillar Castle.
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4 Crichton Castle
For centuries, Crichton Castle was home to medieval lords and Renaissance noblemen. It was one of several properties belonging to the 4th Earl of Bothwell who controversially became Mary’s third husband in 1567.
Mary also attended her half-brother’s lavish wedding to Bothwell’s sister at Crichton in 1562.
Find out more and plan your visit to Crichton Castle.
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