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A historical town, Linlithgow perfectly blends old and new offering visitors an array of wonderful sights, events and shopping and dining.
History
Steeped in history, the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow houses the remains of Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of James V and Mary, Queen of Scots. Visitors today can enjoy a visit to the Palace, now a ruin, and a leisurely walk around its adjoining Loch.
Adjacent to the Palace, is St Michael’s Parish Church. Constructed in the 15th century, it is the most complete example of a surviving late medieval church in Scotland.
A walk down the High Street reveals many historic buildings along with several old "wynds" and "closes". The Linlithgow Community Museum tells the Linlithgow Story tracing the town’s historical links and some of Scotland’s great Kings. Outside the town, other historical residences include the House of the Binns and Blackness Castle. Stately Home, Hopetoun House, is also worth a visit and is situated only 10 miles away.
Paper making and whisky were once important local industries. 1822 marked the completion of the Union Canal, linking Edinburgh and Glasgow via the Forth and Clyde Canal. This was a very successful transport route until 1842 when it was succeeded by the Glasgow and Edinburgh Railway. Today there are thriving local trades and larger corporations within and on the outskirts of the town.
Things to see and do in Linlithgow
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely day’s shopping visiting some of the town’s small, independent outlets where they can buy arts and crafts material, gifts, flowers, books and delicious cupcakes and special occasion cakes.
Eateries include mouthwatering delicatessens, cafes, bars and fine dining restaurants.
The fourth Saturday of the month marks the arrival of the Farmers Market who bring a selection of the finest, local, seasonal produce. Situated in The Cross area of the High Street, this is well worth a visit.
The beautifully restored Linlithgow Burgh Halls is a popular choice for Art Exhibitions, not to mention a popular venue for hire for weddings and events. It also offers a self-help visitor information service.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities the Linlithgow Canal Centre (LUCS) is the perfect spot for a gentle cruise or leisurely walk. Linlithgow also boasts several golf courses and local fisheries for avid anglers. The Star & Garter Hotel incorporates a microbrewery where you can create your very own beer under the expert guidance of their expert master brewer! Beecraigs Country Park provides excellent woodland walks with a play park for younger children and sailing, canoeing and white-water rafting can also be enjoyed for the more adventurous at Low Port outdoor centre.
Walkers can also enjoy the John Muir Way a two hour circular spy trail exploring some diverse areas of Linlithgow including a walk along the canal, through the town centre and finishing up at Linlithgow Palace.
Interactive Visitor Guide
You can now plan your journey before you arrive with the interactive Linlithgow Visitor Guide! Should you like a paper copy when you arrive, they are available at various venues throughout the town.
Linlithgow Visitor Guide 2021-22
Events
A lively community, Linlithgow plays host to a variety of popular events throughout the year.
June sees the Linlithgiw marches, a civic procession of local dignitaries through the town centre. Scotch Hop is a fantastic, fun Scottish dancing event for all ages which takes place on several dates in July and August outdoors in the forecourt of Linlithgow Palace. The fantastic Party @ the palace takes place over a weekend in August and offers 2 days of music and fun for all the family. Linlithgow's Classic car day takes place later summer and spectators can enjoy getting up close to some beautiful sporting motors. The Linlithgow folk festival which takes place in September is enjoyed by lovers of folk music. November marks the ever popular, magical children’s Advent fayre which leads us up to Christmas.
BIDs
Linlithgow has two BIDs (Business Improvement District) a Town Centre BID and a Mill Road Industrial Estate BID. BIDs are where businesses come together and agree to invest collectively in projects and services that the businesses believe will improve their trading environment.
Linlithgow Town Centre BID is a business-led initiative dedicated to improving the town centre for its traders. This BID is funded by the businesses themselves, supplemented by significant financial support from West Lothian Council, and is administered by a group of town-centre businesses, who comprise the BID Board.
The Linlithgow Mill Road Industrial Estate is home to great companies serving both local and international customers. The Business Improvement District (BID) has been established by the businesses based on the Estate to ensure that it becomes an even better place to do business from.
What's On
Beecraigs Festive Forest
Beecraigs Festive Forest is back for 2021. Even bigger, brighter and more spectacular! Visit our Christmas family event which has so many things to do and see - with Illumination Trail, Santa's Grotto and Storytelling Experience, featuring one of the UK’s most creative lighting shows, live performers, music, children’s amusements and festive food and drink. This atmospheric and magical event is the perfect festive holiday experience situated just outside Linlithgow, West Lothian.
Things to do
Linlithgow Canal Centre
Canal Cruises to Avon Aqueduct, Linlithgow Boat Trips, Tearoom, Canal Museum, Charters and Self-Drive Canal Boat Hire. Open from Easter until the end of September, with daily tours throughout the summer months.
Playbugs Soft Play
At Play Bugs we have done our very best to ensure there are plenty of activities for all
Linlithgow Museum
The museum, located in the centre of Linlithgow within the Partnership Centre, is open 6 days a week.
Blackness Castle
Please note, the car park has limited spaces and will be monitored. It is only available for those that have booked tickets to visit the castle and its grounds. Step into a largely intact medieval castle whose defences once guarded the Firth of Forth. An impressive venue used as infamous Fort William in Outlander.
House of the Binns
Home of the Dalyell family since 1612, this house reveals their lives and interests through the centuries. The Estate is open all year but the House is open from 1st June- 30th September
Linlithgow Palace
This site is currently closed as a precautionary measure while we undertake site inspections. We apologise for any inconvenience. Find out more about our conservation work: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/about-us/news/site-access-update/. This royal pleasure palace was the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots.
Linlithgow Peel
The magnificent ruins of Linlithgow Palace sit above Linlithgow Loch, amid an expanse of parkland known as the peel.
West Lothian Local History Library
West Lothian Local History Library – all about the history and heritage of West Lothian – and family history too.
Mary, Queen of Scots Trail
This trail takes in 20 attractions all over Scotland connected to Mary Queen of Scots, the most famous and intriguing member of the Scottish monarchs.
The Battle of Linlithgow Bridge
Take a trip back in time and walk the trail of the Battle of Linlithgow Bridge.
Beecraigs Animal Attraction
Beecraigs Red Deer herd, Highland Cattle fold & sheep breeds including the Hebridean can be seen from the Sutherland Way & viewing platform.
Beecraigs Country Park
Wide range of activities within 370 hectares (913 acres), near historic Linlithgow. Open throughout the year, free entry.
Linlithgow Burgh Halls
A stunning building with a dedicated art gallery, offering a café with garden, visitor information, events, classes, elegant spaces for hire and much more.
West Lothian Family History Society
The West Lothian Family History Society was founded to help those who are interested in researching family history and genealogy across West Lothian.
Rouken Glen Garden Centre
At Rouken Glen Garden Centre, we stock everything your home or garden needs.
Low Port Centre
Providers of outdoor education and residential experience to schools, organised groups and individuals
CPS Activities
Adventure Activity Business: Archery, Abseiling, Climbing, Hill Walking, Team Building and more.
Bridgend & District Golf Club
The Club was formed in 1994 and was built mainly by the kind voluntary work of some local Bridgend people on land which was formerly used for shale mining works. The Haughburn Course which we enjoy today officially opened in April 1999.
Kingsfield Golf Centre
Kingsfield Golf Centre is the ideal destination if you want to play or learn golf - or improve your game.
West Lothian Golf Club
The West Lothian Golf Club, founded in 1892, is often described as ‘the best golf course in the area’.
Linlithgow Golf Club
Linlithgow Golf Club is a realtively short but challenging 18-hole course which sits high above the traditional and picturesque town of Linlithgow
Blackness Castle
A refreshing walk along the shores of the Forth which gives fantastic views of the Forth Bridges. Distance: 4 miles/6.5kms
The House of the Binns Parkland Trail
The Binns parkland was created to impress guests visually. Visitors today can expect and enjoy the same beautiful parkland and stunning views on this gentle walk. Distance: 2 mls/ 3kms
Linlithgow Loch
This walk takes in some of the best views in West Lothian including Linlithgow Palace. Distance: 8.5 mls / 13.5 kms
Avon River
A fascinating walk with historic points of interest along the way. See where William Wallace hid from the army of Edward I in the 13th century. Distance: 9.5 mls / 15kms
John Muir Way
The John Muir Way stretches all the way from Helensburgh in the West to Dunbar on the East Coast.
Linlithgow – Blackness Castle 10 Mile Cycle Ride
Blackness, the former port of Linlithgow, is a charming coastal village and the Castle attracts many tourists.
Linlithgow Cycling Tour – 25 miles
The ride follows pleasant lanes past Abercorn Church which is situated in charming wooded setting.
Bike & Go
Bike & Go hire scheme has now launched in Linlithgow, West Lothian. This is a fantastic new way to explore and travel the area with this new bike hire scheme.
Bowden Springs Trout Fishery
Bowden has 2 reservoirs which are separated by an earth dam. Both basins are spring fed, draining from the beautiful hills around Torphichen
Xcite Linlithgow
Xcite Linlithgow Leisure Centre combines health & fitness, swimming, sports and fun for the little ones!
Fire & Rain
Uplifting retreat holidays for widows and widowers - Fire & Rain Soul Spas® are a more relevant alternative to other quality holiday offers such as health spa retreats, singles’ holidays and spiritual retreats.
Marys Meanders
Mary’s Meanders is an independent tour guide company specialising in providing fully customised private tours from Linlithgow.
Food & Drink
Bar Leo
Modern italian restaurant with a full a la carte menu, lunch and early evening menus. open 7 days a week.
Delhi's Winter
Best Indian restaurant offering fresh, authentic Indian cuisine open for lunch and dinner, recently awarded by VisitScotland
The Ashmaan
This is a popular Pakistani/Indian restaurant in Linlithgow. A takeaway and delivery service is available. Established in 1984.
The Bridge Inn
If you are looking for good quality, traditional restaurant with a wide range of British Food, then come to The Bridge Inn.
The Champany Inn
Where’s the beef? The answer is Champany Inn. While dedicated to beef, there's still a wide choice of alternative and supporting dishes, accompanied by a selection of world-class wines.
So Strawberry Caffe
We are a family run business that takes pride in our service and cuisine. We are particularly proud of our home-baked cakes and desserts.
Taste Café and Delicatessen
Here you will discover a wonderful array of delicious foods and wines in the beautiful setting of historic Linlithgow, near Edinburgh.
The Granary
The Granary Cafe is a family owned, neighbourhood café in the heart of beautiful Linlithgow.
Platform 3
Platform 3 offers its customers a relaxed environment in which to enjoy a varied selection of draught and bottled beers, real ales, wines etc.
The Four Marys
It is a rare find to discover a hostelry that retains a strong connection with its past and that has remained true to itself.
The Old Post Office Bar
A lively bar with a wide range of drinks and food options in the centre of Linlithgow.
Truly Scrumptious Designer Cakes
A Linlithgow Company famous for outstanding wedding and celebration cakes– renowned for the delicious quality of the cakes as well as their eye catching bespoke designs
Golden Chip- Chip Shop
Fish and chips are a real Scottish tradition, and the Golden Chip serves up fantastic ‘fish suppers’ - along with pizza, burgers sausage and black pudding suppers – to residents and visitors alike.
Tee Caddy Coffee Shop @ Kingsfield
Whether you’re looking for pre-play sustenance or to satisfy your hunger after a game, the Tee Caddy offers a warm welcome and plenty of value for money.
Accommodation
Champany
Champany offers its visitors the choice of sixteen, sumptuous bedroom suites with all the warmth of typical Scottish hospitality.
The Court Residence
You will immediately feel at home when you enter the Court Residence, West Lothian. Specially designed to meet the needs of corporate, leisure and tourists alike.
The Star and Garter Hotel
The Star and Garter Hotel is an iconic three storey Georgian Mansion which stands proud in the heart of the historical Royal Burgh of Linlithgow, the birth place of Mary Queen of Scots. Linlithgow was also the filming location for Outlander! The beautiful Hotel, Bar & Restaurant always serves up the best in food, entertainment and relaxing accommodation. Whatever your reason for visiting The Star and Garter, you’ll always be well looked after. Why not enjoy a weekend break or overnight stay in the beautiful Star & Garter hotel!
Aran House B&B
Aran House is an ideal Bed and Breakfast establishment to enjoy your stay while visiting central Scotland.
Arden Country House
Delightful, 5 star, multiple award winning Bed and Breakfast set in a quiet rural retreat, close to the historic town of Linlithgow.
Bo'mains Farm B&B
Bo’mains Farm B&B is a four-star bed and breakfast located between Linlithgow and Bo’ness. There are four guest bedrooms within the main Bo’mains Farmhouse. A further three rooms are in Kirkland House next door. Breakfasts for all guests are served in our beautiful dining room (in the main Farmhouse). All rooms have en-suite facilities, apart from one room (in the main Farmhouse) which has use of a toilet/shower room.
Broompark B&B
Located 2 miles from Linlithgow. The B&B is ideally placed to reach all the main attractions. Edinburgh Airport is only 10 miles away and there is easy access to Edinburgh by car and bus
Glenavon House
A private 2-bedroom self-catering apartment situated on the outskirts of historic Linlithgow.
Lismore House
Lismore House offers guests spacious rooms and a comfortable, welcoming base in which to relax during their stay.
Lumsdaine House
Enjoy spectacular views from every window and enjoy the tranquillity whilst being only 30 minutes from Edinburgh.
Parkhead House
This Visit Scotland 4* award winning bed and breakfast is set in open countryside on the edge of an idyllic deer park.
Garden Cottage
Garden Cottage is a self-catering upside down cottage, carefully renovated from a small 400 year old stone built stable and located just off Linlithgow High Street
Williamscraig Holiday Cottages
9 family-friendly, luxury 4 star cottages in beautiful countryside near Linlithgow
Linlithgow Holiday Cottages
High-quality new build holiday cottages available for short and medium term lets.
Parkley Farm Cottages
Self-catering holiday cottage accommodation, near Edinburgh, just outside historic Linlithgow.
3 Burnside Cottages
3 Burnside Cottages is a charming, terraced, ground floor cottage three miles from Linlithgow.
Beecraigs Caravan & Camping Site
Open all year, modern toilet facilities, ideal countryside retreat, perfect base from which to explore Central Scotland, Trossachs, Glasgow & Edinburgh. Caters for touring caravans, motorhomes, trailer tents and tents. Two Little Lodges glamping units also available to hire.
Visit West Lothian, Civic Centre, Howden South Road, Livingston, West Lothian. EH54 6FF UK Registration No. SC346843
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