Overview

This is a fascinating Palace, but it is for the most part very inaccessible. Steep spiral stone staircases, dim passageways, ruined halls and dark cellars are the main characteristic of Linlithgow Palace. However, as other reviewers have said, the Peel walkways are very nice, and you can also easily enter the courtyard of the Palace where the beautiful water fountain is, and most of the visitor interpretation boards detailing the history of the site.

Transport & Parking

There is accessible parking right outside the Palace. I parked further down the town in the free Water Yett car park as I was visiting other places along the main street. The Water Yett car park gives nice flat access to the Peel, but is a fair walk away and downhill from the Palace. Linlithgow train station is about a 10 minute walk from the Palace but a few short steep hills will be involved if you take this route. There are bus stops through the town centre that can drop you off at the foot of the Palace.

Access

Other than the courtyard, access around Linlithgow Palace by its very nature is not easy. There are handles up all of the stone spiral staircases, but these are big, steep steps of varying heights and condition. Some of the cellars are pitch black with dim lighting for safety, but it won't be suitable for everybody. Inside the rooms and the corridors however the smooth stone paving is very welcome! I didn't feel like I was going to trip in the dark at any point which was reassuring. The courtyard is worth a visit however! The ornate fountain in the middle is amazing, and they used to fill it with wine during royal parties. There are lots of information boards around the courtyard and helpful staff to answer any questions about the site.

Toilets

I was pointed in the direction of the toilets which turned out to be one toilet for all visitors. Wheelchair access to the toilet is not ideal - there is a platform lift to enable access to the corridor that leads to the toilet. Inside is narrow and cluttered, and there was no soap (not even a dispenser?) when I visited.

Staff

Super helpful! Told me about the Palace, and heard them assisting others with directions.

Photos