The majestic royal palace of the Stewarts at Linlithgow today lies roofless and ruined. Yet the visitor still feels a sense of awe on entering its gates. The palace was once truly elegant and a welcome stopping-place for the royal family along the busy road linking Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle.

The beauty of the palace can still be seen today in the carvings on the fountain, a beautiful three-tiered ‘wedding-cake’ structure in the centre of the courtyard, or the Oriels, elegant projecting windows off the kings and queens bedchambers.

All around the palace visitors can see sumptuous stone-carved figures, including angel musicians in the royal chapel. Another feature not to be missed is the magnificent Great Hall with its huge fireplace.

The Palace is set in magnificent parkland known as ‘The Peel’ which includes the beautiful Linlithgow Loch.  The Loch offers locals and visitors a haven of wildlife which can be enjoyed by taking the circular path around the Loch.

The Palace is open 7 days a week in the summer (1 April-30 September) 9.30am-5.30pm and in the winter (1 October-31 March) 9.30am-5.30pm

Admission for Adults is £5.50, Children £3.30 and Concession £4.40.

Parking is available at the cobbled entrance. Surfaces inside the Palace are mainly stone slabs and small cobbles in the courtyard.

There are regular train services to Linlithgow from Edinburgh and Glasgow. Walk 2 minutes to Linlithgow High Street, near Station Road; progress westwards to the Palace.