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Linlithgow Palace (HS)

Linlithgow

This magnificent royal palace, beautifully set in its own park, borders Linlithgow loch, and was built between 1425 and 1540. With its superb Great Hall it has one of the finest mediaeval interiors of any castle or palace in Scotland. The palace was a favourite residence of Stewart kings and queens. Both James V and his daughter, Mary Queen of Scots, were born here.By the end of the 17th century the palace was in a bad state of repair. Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed here briefly during the 1745 rebellion. A year later, troops of the Duke of Cumberland's army were billeted in the palace. They accidentally set fire to the buildings which have remained roofless ever since.Shop and picnic area.