The Four Marys

Located midway between Edinburgh and Glasgow, West Lothian is an easily accessible destination. From prehistoric burial sites to stately homes, it is steeped in history waiting to be explored, and the area’s historic attractions make great family days out too. 

Rising dramatically from the shores of Linlithgow Loch is the great square fortress of Linlithgow Palace, dating from the 15th century, which has played its part in Scotland’s history. There was a fortified residence here as early as the mid-12th century, and Edward I built a manor here in 1302, but it was not until 1425 that work began on the castle that you see today. Mary, Queen of Scots, was born here in 1542, Charles I slept here in 1633 and Oliver Cromwell stayed in the palace in the winter of 1650–51. When the Duke of Cumberland’s army bivouacked in Linlithgow in 1746 en route to their encounter with Prince Charles Edward Stuart’s army at Culloden Moor, fires were left burning which gutted this handsome building. 

For shopping and entertainment, head to Livingstone. The county’s biggest town has excellent facilities and is Scotland’s top shopping destination.