Spectacular Jousting Linlithgow FAQs

What time is the event?

The event takes place from 11.30am to 4.30pm on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June. We recommend booking in advance to avoid missing out.

There will be two jousts each day at 12.45pm and 2.30pm. The jousts are approximately 45 minutes. There will also be a full supporting programme of activity throughout the day.

Tickets to the event will also include access to the Palace. Please note, event days can get very busy, so there may be times throughout the day when access to the palace is restricted to manage numbers. If you’re unsure please speak to our site staff who can let you know on the day.

What time should I arrive at Linlithgow?

The event will start at 11.30am. However, Linlithgow Palace will be open from 9.30am, so you will be able to access the site from then if you wish. The full programme for the day will be available to download in advance of the day so you can plan your visit.

Do I need to book in advance?

We recommend booking in advance to avoid missing out as this event has a capacity limit.

What happens if the event is cancelled?

If the event needs to be cancelled, due to bad weather or unforeseen circumstances, ticket holders will be contacted via email and automatically refunded. Funds will show within 30 days and you do not need to contact us. Please check our closures page before travelling to the event.

Are tickets refundable?

All tickets purchased are non-refundable as per our ticketing terms and conditions.

Is the event taking place outdoors?

Yes the event takes place fully outside. Please check the weather forecast in advance and dress appropriately on the day and bring plenty of sun protection.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome at Spectacular Jousting, but please keep them on a lead at all times.

What food options are available on the day?

There will be catering vendors serving a variety of food including burgers, pizza and hot dogs, and outlets selling coffee and tea, as well as ice cream vans.

You are also welcome to bring along your own picnic.

How do I get to Linlithgow Palace on the day?

We encourage our visitors to make use of public transport where possible. Linlithgow is easily accessible via many different public transport options.

If travelling by train is an option for you, Linlithgow Palace is just a 10 min walk from the train station, giving you the option to explore the lovely town of Linlithgow as well. With ample cafés and delightful and interesting shops, it is well worth a stop along the way!

Linlithgow can also be accessed by various bus routes from across the central belt, find out more.

Is parking available?

There are two car parks for the event, one of which is for accessible parking and spaces are limited:

• Accessible parking is available in The Vennel Car Park, High Street, Linlithgow, EH49 7EX.

• The main car park is located at Bonnytoun Farm.

Yellow AA road signage will be in place directing you to the car park location and staff will be there to guide visitors on arrival

To reach the car park area:

• From the West, take junction 4 off the M9 and drive through Linlithgow town centre, turning left beside the Oracle Car Park.

• From the East, take junction 3 off the M9 and turn right beside the Oracle car park.

Please Park and Stride. We are encouraging visitors who are able to, to walk to the event this year. There will, however, be a small number of shuttle buses from nearby to the Bonnytoun Farm parking area, for those who would prefer to take the bus.

Please note the majority of these buses are not suitable for wheelchairs, and wheelchair users should use the accessible car park where possible. The parking at the accessible car park is on a first-come, first-served basis, therefore one shuttle bus will be wheelchair accessible. From the accessible car park, the event is reached via our accessible entrance at Market Lane. Staff will be on hand to show visitors the route.

We have extensive provision for car parking however, there is no pre-booking and it is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Is disabled access available?

The event has step-free access, however, there are quite steep gradients and uneven surfaces to get to the peel. The peel itself is flat and there is a tarmac path around the peel. There is a separate admission point for those with access needs. Staff will direct visitors who require this to the Market Lane entrance, which will have a staffed admissions point.

How will I receive my ticket?

Your tickets will be attached in your email confirmation in a PDF document. Please print your tickets and bring them with you or show on your mobile phone to gain entry. Your email confirmation email should arrive shortly after booking. If you have not received this, please check your junk folder in the first instance. If you have not received this please contact ticketing@hes.scot with details of your booking (name on booking, email address used and site visiting).

I have an Explorer Pass, does this allow me entry to the event?

Explorer Pass holders do not get free entry for this event.

I have a helper/carer to assist me, are they free of charge?

We recognise that some visitors require extra assistance and therefore we offer free entry to carers accompanying visitors with disabilities. No ID will be required. Advanced booking is required. Up to 2 carer tickets can be added per booking online.

I am a Historic Scotland member, do I still need to buy a ticket?

If you are a member, your ticket is free for the event but we recommend booking in advance so you don’t miss out. Please bring along your membership card as you will need to show this along with your ticket to gain entry.

I have lost my membership card, can I still come along to the event?

If you have lost your membership card, please contact the membership team in advance of the event, and they will send your replacement card and a confirmation email.

Don’t worry if there is not enough time to order your replacement card, there will be a membership team on site at the event who can check the validity of your membership and arrange your access on the day. If you have your membership number this will assist them.

You can also download a digital membership card via the Historic Scotland app.

Do I get a special rate if I am a carer?

If you are a carer, you receive free entry to this event. Please book this online in advance. Tickets are limited to 2 carers per transaction.

I am a member of English Heritage, Cadw or Manx Heritage do I receive a discount for the event?

If you are an English Heritage, Cadw or Manx Heritage 1st year member, you receive half price entry to the event. English Heritage members of more than one year and life members receive free entry. We recommend booking in advance to avoid missing out and membership cards are required to be shown on arrival with your ticket to gain entry.