Dog Friendly Linlithgow Palace: Review
Dog friendly Linlithgow Palace in West Lothian is managed by Historic Environment Scotland. It’s one of Scotland’s most atmospheric historic sites. The birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, this grand ruin sits on a ridge overlooking Linlithgow Loch. Not only is it steeped in centuries of history, but it is extremely dog friendly. For obvious reasons there are a few restrictions in terms of access, but we’ve been twice now and have been made to feel very welcome with the dogs.
About Linlithgow Palace
Linlithgow Palace, located in the town of Linlithgow in West Lothian, Scotland, is one of the country’s most significant Renaissance royal residences. Built in the 15th century on the site of an earlier manor, it served as a favoured retreat for Stewart monarchs, most notably James IV and James V, who undertook much of the grand construction visible today. The palace is perhaps best known as the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1542. It remained a royal residence into the early 17th century, but fell into decline after the Union of the Crowns in 1603, when the court moved south to London.
The palace was largely destroyed by a fire in 1746, leaving it as the hauntingly beautiful roofless ruin you see today. Managed by Historic Environment Scotland, the site offers visitors the chance to walk through the great hall, royal apartments, and the stunning open courtyard, with the adjacent St Michael’s Kirk and the peaceful Linlithgow Loch completing the setting.
Linlithgow Palace Dog Policy
The official policy from Historic Environment Scotland on their website states that dogs are allowed at Linlithgow Palace, but they are not permitted in roofed areas. However when we arrived, we found the policy to be slightly different. We were told that dogs could go anywhere in Linlithgow Palace with the exception of the corridor that housed the museum and the reception / gift shop area.
This left us able to explore courtyard and most of the ruins. It also meant that when it rained, we were able to go in covered areas with the dogs rather than ending up sitting outside in the rain. Likewise, there are plenty of walks in the parkland around the palace, including beside the loch where dogs on leads are welcome. Additionally, dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and must not be left unattended. Visitors are obviously expected to clean up after their dogs.
It is also worth noting that some of the staircases are quite windy and could be difficult for older or larger dogs. My older dog got on ok, but I’m pretty sure she started to get a bit fed up of walking up and down by the end.
The Verdict
I think it says all you need to know about our experience of Linlithgow Palace that we have now visited two years in a row. My husband is very interested in the history of Mary Queen of Scots, so reading the information boards and looking at the historical artefacts on display in the museum kept him busy.
Myself and the children enjoyed a chilled out stroll around Linlithgow Palace with the dogs. It’s lovely to be able to visit with them and feel genuinely welcome. The palace sits in a huge grassy park, and even on a busy summer day there’s room to find a quiet spot for a picnic.
In addition to this, we found that there’s a lot to do around the local area with dogs. We’ve visited the same café in Linlithgow after both visits to the palace. Whilst it’s not an area I know particularly well, I can recommend a couple of things to do locally with dogs, as set out below.
Dog Friendly Things To Do Near Linlithgow Palace
Dog Friendly Aran Café Linlithgow
We’ve been to Aran Café twice now and both times it has been busy, but we’ve had a brilliant experience. There are a selection of tables, plus stools up at a higher bar-style seating area. Dogs are welcome and they’re happy to provide bowls of water for them if you ask.
The food here is lovely. They have a selection of unusual grilled sandwiches, as well as burgers and other menu items. We found there was a great vegetarian selection. We also sampled the cakes and various flavours of scones, all of which were delicious.
Walks Around Linlithgow
We always find that a nice walk is a great way to extend a day out with dogs. As well as the parkland around the palace, the Union Canal towpath runs right next to it, so it’s a great starting point for a walk along there. If you’re looking for a short stroll, the Linlithgow Loch circular walk is about a mile long. It’s flat, and very dog-friendly.
Avon Lagoon
We were looking for somewhere to go open water swimming near to Linlithgow. Whilst people advise against swimming in Linlithgow Loch due to algae, Avon Lagoon is about a mile away. Dogs are welcome and it’s a popular swimming spot.
Other Ideas For Days Out Nearby
Check out my blog post about dog friendly things to do in East Lothian – some of these are only a short drive from Linlithgow.
