Castles in Edinburgh and Lothians

It is hardly a surprise that Edinburgh and The Lothians is home to arguably the nations most important castles and palaces. Edinburgh has been Scotland's capital since 1437 and the scene of some of its most historic events. There is an interesting mixture of older defensive castle built to withstand attacks from land and see, as well as royal pleasure palaces

Your hosts will be happy to share their local knowledge with you, telling you the best places to park, transport links to use and extra sights to see

Edinburgh Castle

This impressive castle on top of an extinct volcano, is the story of Scotland’s history. Home to The Stone of Destiny and The Honours of Scotland (the Scottish "crown jewels"). Also home to the National War Museum of Scotland and the Scottish National War Memorial. Open daily all year. Admission charges apply. Restaurant and gift shop.

B&Bs near Edinburgh Castle - Arden House near Linlithgow

Craigmillar Castle

East of Edinburgh - The tower house is one of the oldest in Scotland and with fascinating features, including a fine great hall and the so-called ‘Queen Mary’s Room’. Admission charges apply. Historic Scotland.

B&Bs near Craigmillar Castle - Arden House near Linlithgow

Blackness Castle

4 miles from Linlithgow - Blackness Castle stands beside the Firth of Forth, at the seaport which in medieval times served the royal burgh of Linlithgow. The castle was built in the 15th century by one of Scotland’s most powerful families, the Crichtons. Admission charges apply.

B&Bs near Blackness Castle - Arden House near Linlithgow

Linlithgow Palace

The magnificent ruins of the Palace were once the home to all the Stewart Kings, including the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Admission charges apply. Historic Scotland. See our page all about Historic Linlithgow.

B&Bs near Linlithgow Palace - Arden House near Linlithgow

Place of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, or Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of His Majesty King Charles III, when he is in Scotland on state business. As well as the fabulous state apartments, which have unique art and furniture, you can also see the apartments occupied by the ill fated Mary Queen of Scots. These have been filled with many of her personal belongings and ooze history. As if this was not enough, there is also the ruined Abbey and gardens to see. Definitely worth a day out and an extra treat if there is something 'official' going on. Open all year. Admission charges apply.

B&Bs near Holyrood Palace - Arden House near Linlithgow