Linlithgow is a small town located in Scotland’s West Lothian. With its stunning tourist attractions shaped by its rich ancient history, the town has lots to offer! 

Here, we provide all you need to know before visiting Linlithgow, as well as other exciting activities to do while in town. 

If you’re ready to explore this burgh’s beauty, then keep reading!

Is Linlithgow worth visiting?

Linlithgow is definitely worth visiting as there’s plenty of things you can do! From its stunning attractions to its exhilarating activities, there is always something for everyone. 

You’ll also have a better understanding of Scottish history and other cultures. 

When is the best time to visit Linlithgow?

The best time to visit Linlithgow is from June to late August. These are the warmest months of the year, making it easier to explore and do activities around town.

How to Go to Linlithgow

You can travel by bus, train or plane to visit Linlithgow. 

If you’re taking the bus, the bus 31 or X38 will take you to Linlithgow. Meanwhile, if you prefer to go by train, you can take the Scotrail to Linlithgow station. 

There are lots of departure points from where you can catch these buses and trains. Among the various options are Dunfermline, Forth Bridge, and Cineworld.

Meanwhile, if you’re coming from a plane, you may want to choose flights going to Edinburgh Airport. From there, you can either take a bus or train as Linlithgow is just 20 miles away from Edinburgh. 

25 Things to Do in Linlithgow

1. Visit Linlithgow Museum

Linlithgow Museum is one of the most famous attractions you shouldn’t miss when visiting Linlithgow. 

Here, you can learn about the town’s history from its beginnings up to the present. 

It encompasses royal heritage, trade, and other industries. Exhibitions and film screenings are also among the museum’s activities.

2. Take a trip to Linlithgow Palace

Linlithgow Palace was the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. The palace, which is located roughly halfway between Falkirk and Edinburgh, has been a royal home since the 1100s.

This attraction was constructed in 1424 and has remained an interesting site up to this day.

3. Take a tour at Linlithgow Loch

Linlithgow Loch’s grassy banks are great for a stroll while admiring the lake’s stunning scenery. The lake is surrounded by forests and has a hillside view of Linlithgow. 

It is near Linlithgow Palace and you may also go fishing or participate in watersports here. Linlithgow Loch is a must-see, particularly if you’re planning a picnic with your loved ones while around town!

4. Hop on a boat ride in Linlithgow Union Canal Centre

The Linlithgow Canal Centre offers three separate boat rides such as an aqueduct cruise, a short town trip and the Falkirk Wheel cruise. 

Since 1822, this attraction and Edinburgh have been linked. It was connected to the Forth and Clyde Canal through eleven locks, and the canal was divided into four sections, with half-mile milestones still visible today.  

Check ahead of time to ensure that there are boat tours scheduled on the day you’ll be there. 

5. Visit Dalyell’s house in The House of the Binns

The House of the Binns serves as a living memorial to the Dalyells, one of Scotland’s oldest families. 

The mansion was erected in 1612 by Thomas Dalyell, an Edinburgh trader who made his fortune in the courts of King James VI and I in London. 

This intriguing mansion at Linlithgow has been the home of the Dalyells for almost 400 years, set amid wonderfully planted gardens. The National Trust for Scotland manages the house, its furnishings, and its gardens. 

Although the estate is open all year, the mansion is only open from June to September. Every area is filled with old family photos, furniture, and porcelain which can be a great experience in town.

6. Appreciate nature in Beecraigs Country Park

Beecraigs Country Park provides a diverse range of leisure and recreational activities within its 370-hectare space. It is open all year and is located in the Bathgate Hills, near the ancient town of Linlithgow.

Throughout the Park, there are miles of woodland roads and paths to explore. They also allow convenient access to main attractions such as the animal attraction, adventure play area, and Visitor Centre.

Entrance is free, so you can enjoy the view as much as you like. 

7. Travel back in time in St. Michael’s Parish Church

St. Michael’s Parish Church is where Mary, Queen of Scots was baptised. It has been carefully renovated throughout the years and is located beside Linlithgow Palace. 

The church is one of the biggest Parish churches that is still in use today. The contemporary aluminium spire of the Church was installed in 1964 and replaced the ancient stone crown, which was removed for safety concerns in 1821. 

This became a dramatic addition to the historical structure.

8. Go fishing in Bowden Springs Fishery

Catch blue or rainbow trout species while admiring the beauty of the surroundings in the Bowden Springs Fishery. 

They provide packages for aspiring anglers to stay at one of their town cottages, which are conveniently located near the reservoirs. 

9. Experience golf in Kingsfield Golf Centre

The Kingsfield golf centre is open all year and is located on the town’s eastern outskirts, accessible via the Blackness Road shortly before the M9 motorway interchange.

This golf centre features a full size 9 hole USGA Specification Golf Course and Golf Driving Range. Enhance your golf skills and have fun with your loved ones here!

10. Take a photo at The Cross and Cross Well

The Cross and Cross Well is located in the centre of Linlithgow, just in front of the Burgh Halls on the High Street. 

It is in the shape of an octagonal crown with images relating to the town and is crowned by a unicorn. The well has been in existence since the 16th century, but the attraction was just formed during 1807 by Robert Gray, Edinburgh’s stone-mason. 

The Cross Well is a duplicate of an older edifice from 1628, which was destroyed during Oliver Cromwell’s occupancy of Linlithgow but reconstructed following King Charles II’s restoration in 1660.

11. Take a walk in the park at Muiravonside Country Park

The Muiravonside Country Park, which spans 170-acres, is a stunning park with lots of fun activities that are guaranteed to pique your interest.

This Country Park is ideal for wandering along the natural paths, having a picnic with the family, or touring the Newpark’s farm.

The charming Muiravonside Country Park demonstrates how gorgeous Linlithgow, Scotland can be, with breathtaking scenery. 

12. Admire the beauty of Avon River

A tour around Linlithgow is never complete without a visit to the Avon River. It has some amazing vistas and overlooks the Avon Viaduct and the Linlithgow Bridge. 

This river is an ideal location to relax from the hustle and bustle of the city and is filled with nature and wildlife.

13. Visit Hope Monument

The Hope Monument was built as Brigadier Adrian Hope’s memorial in 1859 and is now standing as one of West Lothian’s best attractions. 

The structure was constructed in gothic design with rusticate stairs. You can also delve into Brigadier’s life and heroism here.

14. Learn more about the town’s history in the Blackness Castle

The Blackness Castle is a towering structure located in the north of Linlithgow. It overlooks the Fifth of Forth, and is commonly called the ‘ship that never sailed’ due to its stone-ship-like semblance.

It was constructed in the 15th century and served as a fortress, jail, royal castle, and even a filming site for Hamlet. 

The Blackness Castle has now established a reputation as one of the most terrifying wartime fortresses.

15. Unravel Korean War’s history in The Scottish Korean War Memorial

The Scottish Korean War Memorial is a tribute to the fallen Koreans during the Korean war. This has been the only remains left in Scotland and is ideal for anyone who wants to take a look at the Korean War’s history. 

Inside, you can see 110 Korean fir trees planted to honour each ten soldiers who died during the war. The memorial also provides areas where you may sit in silence and contemplate the breathtaking settings where it is situated.

16. Enjoy art in Linlithgow Burgh Halls

Linlithgow Burgh Halls is located in the heart of the town. It made its major renovation in 2011 and is now home to art galleries, function rooms, cafe shop and a large terrace.

The hall also hosts solo exhibitions and contemporary work. You can also rent the function rooms for your event.

17. View the stunning scenery in Avon Railway Viaduct

The Avon Viaduct bridges the River Avon in Linlithgow. John Miller, an engineer for the Edinburgh and Glasgow Railway, built the 442-yard, 23-arch bridge between 1839 and 1841. 

As the viaduct crosses the West Lothian and Falkirk Council boundaries, it has earned two Historic Environment Scotland listings. 

18. Read about Linlithgow’s past in The West Lothian Local History Library

The West Lothian Local History Library holds various references and information about Linlithgow’s past.

It houses over 10,000 books, photographs and maps, which were donated by the locals, the National Trust and the West Lothian Council. 

Visiting the library can also be a great source to know if you have ancestors who lived in Linlithgow as the library still holds census data and records from the mediaeval times.

19. Be captivated by Cockleroy Hill

Another way to view the stunning town of Linlithgow is by visiting Cockleroy Hill.

Hike towards the Cockleroy Hill and find the remains of the Iron Age’s hill fort. This hill is among the noteworthy hills in Scotland.

20. Enjoy music at Linlithgow Folk Festival

Linlithgow Folk Event is a five-day festival held in September that emphasises Scottish music and dance.

This celebration starts in a bar and moves around the town centre. 

The Linlithgow Folk Festival, in fact, is one of the most exciting events in town. This symbolises that going here is truly worth the experience! 

21. Taste the mouthwatering beer of Krafty Brew

Krafty Brew offers a wide range of flavourful beers and other beverages, ideal for a hangout with your friends and family.

The bar is often used as a venue for other events and corporate year-end parties. 

Ales, IPAs and different kinds of beers are just among the several beverages available here. 

22. Have fun in Play Bugs

Let your kids run and play in Play Bugs! Inside, there are also lots of great shops that could cater to you and your children’s needs. 

The facility is clean and well-kept, so you can relax knowing that your children will be well-cared for while having fun with other children.

23. Dance to the music at Party at the Palace

When visiting Linlithgow, don’t miss the Party at the Palace! Every year in August, Scottish bands from throughout the country sing Scottish songs, while other artists dance.

This event might also be a terrific opportunity to meet Linlithgow residents and learn more about their culture. 

This musical festival is held on the spacious grounds of Linlithgow Palace, and its tremendous presence may draw your attention while you’re there.

24. Appreciate the Statue of St. Michael

The Statue of St. Michael is among the many recent attractions just brought to town. It found its home in Linlithgow in 2002 and continues to attract many visitors until today.

This magnificent statue is one of the several. The entire set has matching plinths and colorations that make you feel as if you’ve purchased a ticket to an art gallery in the heart of Linlithgow.

25. Have a fun day at Linlithgow Golf Club

Aside from Kingsfield Golf Centre, The Linlithgow Golf Club is another worth-visiting golf venue in town. It is located near the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow, in West Lothian’s farmlands and hills. 

They offer 18 excellent golf courses where you can improve your golf skills. 

The Best Restaurants in Linlithgow

1. Delhi’s Winter

Address: Unit C Regent Centre, Blackness Road, Linlithgow, West Lothian, EH49 7HU

Contact Details: 01506 671611 / [email protected]

Opening Hours: 4:30 PM to 10 PM (Monday to Wednesday), 12 PM to 2:30 PM & 4:30 PM to 10 PM (Thursday & Friday), 12 PM to 10 PM (Saturday) and 1 PM to 10 PM (Sunday)

Website: https://delhiswinter.co.uk/

A trip is never complete without dining in one of the best restaurants in town. Delhi’s Winter is one among the many in Linlithgow. 

This restaurant offers a wide range of Indian cuisine made from the freshest ingredients.

Tandoor Lamb Chops, Chicken Tikka and Paneer Shaslik are among the crowd-pleasers. 

2. The Four Marys

Address: 65-67 High St., Linlithgow, EH49 7ED, United Kingdom

Contact Details: 01506 842171

Website: https://www.belhavenpubs.co.uk/pubs/west-lothian/four-marys/ 

The Four Mays is another must-try restaurant and pub located on the High Street of Linlithgow and is named after Mary, Queen of Scots. 

They offer a variety of mouth-watering dishes such as king prawns & chorizo, flat iron steak & chips and steak & ale pie. 

Meanwhile, Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand, Cuvee Amelie Chardonnay, Australia and Palmetto Barossa Riesling, Australia are some of the best-sellers in their wine selection.

3. Chop & Ale House at Champany Inn

Address: Champany Inn, Linlithgow, West Lothian, EH49 7LU, Scotland

Contact Details: (+44) 1506 834532 / [email protected]

Opening Hours: 4 PM to 9 PM (Monday to Friday), 12 PM to 9 PM (Saturday) and 12:30 PM to 9 PM (Sunday)

Website: https://www.champany.com/ 

Chop & Ale House is a steakhouse restaurant serving British cuisine. They provide a variety of tastes, including ribeye, blue cheese burgers, waffles, and succulent steaks. 

The restaurant is also well-known for its quick and friendly service. You may even sip gin or ale while eating your favourite dishes. 

4. Barleo

Address: 48-50 High Street Linlithgow EH49 7AE

Contact Details: 01506 846667

Opening Hours: 12 PM to 9 PM (Monday to Thursday, Sunday), 12 PM to 10 PM (Friday to Saturday)

Website: https://www.barleo.co.uk/ 

Carpaccio Di Bresaola E Rucola, Scaloppini Alla Milanese, and Pizza Secco E Roccetta are some of the Italian dishes available at Barleo. This restaurant on High Street has an exquisite and tranquil ambiance. 

Where to Stay in Linlithgow

1. West Port Hotel

Address	18-20 West Port, Linlithgow, EH49 7AZ
Telephone No.	01506 847456

The West Port Hotel is one of the ideal places to stay in Linlithgow as it is near several tourist attractions like Beecraigs Country Park. 

Furthermore, the hotel is part of a pub and restaurant, which is extremely convenient because you have access to a range of food alternatives. 

2. Linlithgow Cottages

Address	Linlithgow Cottages, 1 Bonsyde Terrace, Linlithgow, West Lothian EH49 7NZ, Scotland
Telephone No.	+44 07450 249136

Aside from a hotel, you can also stay in a cottage. Linlithgow Cottages is just 15 minutes away from Edinburgh Airport and is well-known for its stunning architecture and spacious rooms. 

It is also close to the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow, and the town of Stirling. The cottage location is also bordered by several restaurants and stores worth visiting. 

3. Wyvis Bed & Breakfast

Address	Wyvis, 70 Stirling Street, Tillicoultry FK13 6EA
Telephone No.	01259 751513

Wyvis Bed & Breakfast is one of the several options you have in Linlithgow. This bed and breakfast is suitable for short-term stays and is a great alternative to hotels and cottages because rooms come at a cheaper price. 

They provide a wide range of amenities like iPod docking stations, WiFi, a washroom, and high-end bed sheets. 

FAQS about Linlithgow

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Whether you’re looking for a vacation getaway, or a chance to explore and learn about Scotland’s history and culture, Linlithgow is an ideal place for you!

While you’re here, you can also check other stunning attractions in Edinburgh and Aberdeen.