Linlithgow Palace **
Region: Lothian & Scottish Borders
Linlithgow Palace © Copyright Philip Halling and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
Description:
In the 12th century there was a castle known as the Peel of Linlithgow, which Edward I of England captured in 1301.
Part of the castle was destroyed in 1313 when troops loyal to Robert the Bruce retook the castle and it remained a ruin until 1350 when it was repaired by David II. At the beginning of the 15th century the castle was mostly rebuilt by James I and from then on it became a favourite residence with the Kings of Scots.
It was here in 1513 that Queen Margaret waited in vain for the return of her husband James IV, who had been killed at Flodden. It was also here that Mary, Queen of Scots was born in 1542. Charles I was the last monarch to sleep in the Palace in 1633 and Bonny Prince Charlie visited the Palace in 1745. It is said that the fountain was made to flow with wine in his honour. The following year government troops 'accidentally' set the palace alight.