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Visitor Guide 2018-19
Attractions Walking Trails Accommodation Eating & Drinking Shopping & Services Event Dates Town Map
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Linlithgow Palace and St Michael’s Parish Church viewed from the footpath around Linlithgow Loch
A Warm Welcome to the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow, a Town Steeped in History! This is an interactive guide to Linlithgow. If there’s further information to be found, you can click or tap the heading or business entry to jump to it. Each page has a “back to top” icon in the top right corner, so you can hop easily between sections. The centre-fold has a street plan of Linlithgow’s town centre, showing numbered points of interest and the routes of the walking trails. We encourage you to ‘stay local’, ‘eat local’ and ‘shop local’. Thanks for visiting Linlithgow - we hope you enjoy your visit. Please tell your friends and return soon.
Contents page Linlithgow’s Main Visitor Attractions................................... 3 Other Attractions in the Area........................................... 4-6 Town Centre Maps (Centre Pages)................................ 16-17 Walking Trails...................................................................... 7 Linlithgow Heritage Trail................................................. 9-19 Linlithgow Floral Trails......................................................... 7 Linlithgow Ale Trail............................................................. 20 Perambulation of Linlithgow’s Marches............................ 21 The Battle of Linlithgow Bridge..................................... 22-23 Where to Stay, Taxis, Cycle Hire & Activities...................... 24 Where to Eat and Drink..................................................... 25 High Street Shops and Services..................................... 26-28 Useful Phone Numbers...................................................... 28 Dates of Linlithgow Events in 2018............................... 30-31 Town Centre Map.............................................................. 32 Find out more about Linlithgow, including the “What’s On?” events guide, at www.linlithgow.com 2
Linlithgow’s Main Visitor Attractions Linlithgow is steeped in history and has a vibrant High Street, along which the town developed. In medieval times the royal burgh was enclosed by a wall, with three entry gates or “ports” - the West Port, the Low Port to Blackness and the High Port to Edinburgh.
The Cross and Cross Well
The Cross, with its iconic well, is the town’s hub: the location of markets, public ceremonies and announcements. From here, the Kirkgate leads up, past the Burgh Halls, to St Michael’s Parish Church, Linlithgow Palace, The Peel and Linlithgow Loch.
Palace, Peel and Loch (Historic Environment Scotland)
Built by the Stewart kings of Scotland and birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, the magnificent ruins of Linlithgow Palace are set in The Peel, a royal park overlooking Linlithgow Loch. Open every day (10am to 4pm in winter; 9-30am to 5-30pm in summer) Tel: 01506-842896.
St Michael’s Parish Church
One of Scotland’s finest medieval churches. Consecrated in 1242, much of the current building dates from the 15th century. Open daily from 10:30am to 1pm (winter) and 10-30am to 4pm (summer). Tel: 01506-842188.
Linlithgow Partnership Centre - Tam Dalyell House
The former County Buildings of West Lothian, opposite the Cross, have been refurbished and now house the Linlithgow Public Library, West Lothian Local History Library and, from 2019 onwards, the new Town Museum, relocated from Annet House.
Linlithgow Canal Centre
A short walk up from the High Street takes you to the canal basin. This inland port dates from 1822, when the Glasgow and Edinburgh Union Canal opened. The canal basin is home to the Linlithgow Union Canal Society which operates boat trips, Scotland’s only canal museum and a tearoom. The Canal Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 31 March to 30th September 2018 from 1pm to 4:30pm and every day from 2nd July to 24th August 2018 from 2pm to 4pm. Tel: 01506-671215.
Linlithgow Canal Centre - Canal museum, tearoom and boat trips 3
Ochils Family Putting Green at Kingsfield Golf Centre
While visiting the Royal Burgh, if you have a spare hour, then why not head to Kingsfield Golf Centre and enjoy a Game of Putting? The fabulous 18 Hole Ochils Putting Green is just the place to enjoy a bit of relaxation in between historic tours and a walk around Linlithgow. It is tremendous value and wonderful fun in the fresh air. The Tee Caddy Coffee Shop is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 3pm. Tel: 01506-671607.
The Ochils Putting Green at Kingsfield Golf Centre
Beecraigs Country Park
Nestled high in the Bathgate Hills, Beecraigs caters for a wide range of leisure and recreational activities within its 370 hectares (913 acres). The Hideaway CafĂŠ is located at the Visitor Centre, where advice, information, gifts and refreshments are available. There are charges for the use of some facilities and activities. The Park is open throughout the year and admission is free. Tel: 01506-284516.
Cockelroy (or Cockleroi) Hill
Adjacent to Beecraigs Country Park is a prominent hill named Cockelroy. From its summit (278m), on a clear day, you can see the Isle of Arran to the west and North Berwick Law to the east, with the Southern Highlands and the Ochils to the north. On a nice day it’s well worth the short steep walk from the Beecraigs Country Park car park on the Bathgate road.
Other Attractions in the Area
Linlithgow is a superb centre for exploring central Scotland. The town has great transport links by train, bus or car to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Stirling. Many attractions are even closer at hand.
The Forth Bridges
The Forth Bridge, a World Heritage Site, which carries the railway north of Edinburgh, is a must to visit. The vista from the historic town of South Queensferry takes in the three major bridges which span the Forth Estuary: The Forth Bridge (1890), the Forth Road Bridge (1964) and the new Queensferry Crossing (2017). 4
Hopetoun House
Hopetoun House is one of the most splendid examples of Georgian architecture in Britain. It is just 5 miles from Linlithgow, set in 150 acres of rolling parkland. The house and grounds are open daily from Easter to the end of September. Tel: 0131-331-1546.
House of the Binns (National Trust for Scotland)
The House of the Binns is the family home of the Dalyells, who have lived here since 1612. It is well worth a visit. The grounds are open all year (gates shut at 7-30pm) and the house is open from 2pm until 5pm, 3rd June until 30 September 2018. Tel: 01506-834255.
Blackness Castle (Historic Environment Scotland)
This castle fortress by the sea was built by one of Scotland’s most powerful families, the Crichtons. Blackness was the seaport for Linlithgow in the days of the Stewart Kings. Open all year round (10am to 4pm in winter; 9-30am to 5-30pm in summer)
The Bo’ness and Kinneil Steam Railway
Experience the power of steam, riding in a historic carriage, hauled by a lovingly restored steam locomotive. You can also visit the Scottish Railway Exhibition, with over 200 locomotives, carriages and wagons, or enjoy a meal or snack in the station coffee shop. Open on scheduled running days from April to October. Tel: 01506-822298.
John Muir Way
Linlithgow is a great place to access the John Muir Way, a long distance walking and cycling route across Scotland’s heartland, from Helensburgh to Dunbar, which was Muir’s birthplace. John Muir is recognised as the father of national parks in the United States. Born in Scotland, his family emigrated to the USA in 1849, when he was only 11 years old.
Mary’s Meanders - Linlithgow and Outlander Tours
Linlithgow has its own tour guide company - Mary’s Meanders - which specialises in walking tours of Linlithgow and also offers Ancestral, Bespoke, Outlander and other Filming Location Tours in central Scotland. You can join a scheduled tour or arrange your own personalised tour. Tel: +44 (0)781 868 7066.
The iconic Forth Bridge - World Heritage Site 5
Blackness Castle
Outlander Locations
The area in and around Linlithgow is rich in locations used in the TV series Outlander. Visit these sites and get transported back in time to either 1945 at the end of World War II or to 1743 in the years leading up to the second Jacobite rising:
• • • • • •
Linlithgow Palace - Wentworth Prison Beecraigs Country Park - various outdoor scenes Hopetoun House - stately home of Duke of Sandringham Blackness Castle - headquarters of Black Jack Randall Midhope Castle - Jamie Fraser’s childhood home of Lallybroch Bo’ness Station - wartime London station (Claire and Frank)
The Falkirk Wheel
The world’s only rotating boat lift, an iconic example of modern British engineering, links the Union Canal to the Forth and Clyde Canal. Boat rides, visitor centre, café and shops. Open all year. Tel: 0870-050-0208.
The Kelpies and Helix Park
At Falkirk, a few miles to the west of Linlithgow, where the Forth and Clyde Canal enters the River Carron, is Helix Park and the Kelpies - the world’s largest equine sculptures. Guided Kelpies tours and visitor centre open 9:30pm to 5pm daily. Tel: 01324-590600.
The Kelpies at night
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Linlithgow’s Walking Trails There are several excellent walking trails in Linlithgow, which will introduce you to the town and many of its interesting places. None of them is particularly long or strenuous. They are the Linlithgow Heritage Trail, Linlithgow Floral Trails, the Linlithgow Ale Trail, the Perambulation of Linlithgow’s Marches and the Battle of Linlithgow Bridge Trail.
Linlithgow Heritage Trail
For those interested in the history and architecture of the Royal Burgh we have devised the Heritage Trail, which will take you round the main features and buildings in the centre of town. The route is shown on the town map (pages 16 & 17).
Linlithgow Floral Trails
Linlithgow is representing Scotland in the ‘town’ category of the Britain in Bloom UK Finals in 2018 and the Floral Trails booklet, published separately by Burgh Beautiful Linlithgow, describes walking and driving routes to view the best of the town’s floral displays and related environmental initiatives. One of the three routes is a numbered walking route around the town centre and the other two are lettered routes suitable for driving or walking which pass, or lead to, the main floral features elsewhere in the town. The town’s public floral displays are entirely the work of Burgh Beautiful’s volunteers and partners, and are financed by the town’s residents, groups, organisations and businesses.
Learmonth gardens
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Linlithgow Ale Trail
Scotland is famous for its pubs (an abbreviation for “public houses”) and Linlithgow has many fine hostelries. Why not take the “Linlithgow Ale Trail” and explore some of Linlithgow’s pubs? A refreshing way to see the Royal Burgh!
Perambulation of Linlithgow’s Marches This takes you from the West Port around what was Linlithgow’s 1832 Parliamentary Boundary. Every year, on the Wednesday before Linlithgow Marches Day, there is an organised Perambulation around the trail but you can walk round it at any time. The route is shown on the town map (pages 16 & 17).
The annual Perambulation of Linlithgow’s Marches
Linlithgow Bridge Battlefield Trail
This trail takes you round the site of the Battle of Linlithgow Bridge, which took place on 4 September 1526. The battle was a product of the power vacuum in Scotland created by the death of James IV at Flodden in 1513.
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Linlithgow Heritage Trail This is an easy-to-follow walk round the main places of interest in Linlithgow, starting at The Cross in the very centre of the town. If desired, you can split the walk into easy sections. Most locations are indicated by a circular plaque, shown on the right - an interpretation of Linlithgow’s ‘St Michael’ coat of arms by artist Tim Chalk. Referring to the map and following the directions in italics, you should follow the route in numerical order. There are information panels at The Cross, West Port, High Port, Linlithgow Station and at the Union Canal.
“St. Michael is Kinde to Straingers”
The Cross Well, Burgh Halls and Cross House
1. The Cross The Cross is one of the finest civic spaces in Scotland the focal point for the town’s annual Marches celebrations. The Cross Well is a replica of a 1535 well and was made in 1807 by a onehanded stonemason. It was refurbished in 2016. 2. Carved Pediment Looking west up the slope, you will see an
old stone, dated 1675, set into the end of the building on the left. This came from the Golden Cross Tavern which once stood nearby.
3. Cross House The older white building at the north-west corner
of The Cross dates from 1700. It contains a fine mid-18th-century plaster ceiling and now forms a suite of church meeting rooms.
4.Town House or Burgh Halls To the right, the imposing structure
with clock-tower and fore-stairs once was Linlithgow’s municipal building. Replacing an earlier Tolbooth demolished in 1650 by Oliver Cromwell, it was built in 1668-70 by John Smith, based on designs by John Mylne, Master Mason to Charles I and Charles II. Conversion into a high-quality community arts facility was completed in 2011. 9
Proceed up the narrow street, the Kirkgate, between Cross House and the Burgh Halls. On the right, go through the archway under the back of the Burgh Halls, and, ahead you will see…
5. The ‘Green Man’ This 1911 bronze statue is of John Hope, the first Governor General of Australia, who became the first Marquess of Linlithgow in 1902. Continue up the Kirkgate towards the Palace Gatehouse, noticing the plaques recording the royal line of succession.
6. Palace Gatehouse Dating from circa 1535, the gateway features
four carved and painted panels representing the orders of knighthood borne by James V – the Golden Fleece, St Michael, the Garter and the Thistle.
7. St Michael’s Parish Church Just inside the gate on the right is one of Britain’s finest parish churches. St Michael’s Church was consecrated in 1242, suffered a fire in 1424 and was rebuilt shortly afterwards in much its present form. In 1821, the tower lost its 15thcentury stone crown – to be replaced in 1964 by today’s striking aluminium spire. Notable interior features include the pulpit, stained glass and the burgh war memorial. Open throughout the year. Guide book available.
St Michael’s Parish Church in winter
8. Linlithgow Palace A royal manor house was first established
here in the 12th century. The present square building was started in 1424 for King James I and was completed over two centuries. James V was born here in 1512, as was Mary, Queen of Scots in 1542. The Scottish Parliament met in the Great Hall on several occasions, most recently in 1646. The Palace was fortified and occupied during 1650–59 by Oliver Cromwell, was gutted by fire in 1746 after occupation by the Duke of Cumberland’s soldiers and has remained roofless ever since. The property is in the care of Historic Environment Scotland. Guide book available. 10
Linlithgow Palace and Mary, Queen of Scots’ statue
9. The Peel The open parkland around the palace, known as The Peel, is one of only two Royal Parks in Scotland, the other being Holyrood Park in Edinburgh. The slope down to the loch on the left of the Palace was once occupied by orchards and beehives, while elsewhere archery was practised. A new statue of Mary, Queen of Scots stands near to the Palace. Pass the left side of the Palace to view Linlithgow Loch.
10. Linlithgow Loch Linlithgow Loch sits in the pre-glacial valley of the River Avon. It has been used for curling and bleaching; today it caters for fishing, sailing and bird-watching. Across the loch is Airngath Hill, featuring Grange (a mansion of 1909) and a monument to Adrian Hope, killed in the Indian Mutiny. Return to The Cross; turn left, viewing the buildings on the opposite side of the High Street.
11. Fire Mark/Plaque Between the first and second storey windows of 79 High Street is an early 19th century ‘fire mark’ which indicated that the building was insured by the Sun Fire Office. 12. Four Marys and Waldie Tablet Heading east, above the Four Marys pub on the opposite side of the High Street, is a plaque commemorating Dr David Waldie, a pioneer with James Young Simpson in the medical use of chloroform. 13. Cornwall Coat of Arms Above the back of the pend between 59-61 High Street, is an inscribed stone from an earlier building, featuring the Cornwall coat of arms, with the date 1527. 14. Bank Building Yet further along, the turreted building was constructed in 1859 for the Commercial Bank of Scotland, features very fine ornamental railings in front and was a branch of the Royal Bank of Scotland until it closed in 2018. 11
15. Victoria Hall The huge sandstone building on this side of the street, once boasting ornate turret features, was completed in 1889. Demolition was in progress at the time of writing. 16. Hamilton’s Land Further along on the left, these rubble
built 16th-century buildings, with their crow-stepped gables, are a picturesque survival of old Linlithgow that was restored by The National Trust for Scotland in 1958.
The High Street with St Michael’s Well and Hamilton’s Land
17. Old Post Office On the right, the town’s former Post Office of 1903, in Scots Renaissance style, was converted into a pub in 2009. 18. St Michael’s Well Also on the opposite side of the High Street is the wellhead of St Michael’s Well. It has an inscribed stone dated 1720, and is topped with a winged figure of St Michael and the town’s ‘Black Bitch’ coat-of-arms. Restored in 2010. 19. St Michael’s Hotel and The Mint The late 19th century tenement behind the well, once a hotel, replaced a superb medieval town house popularly known as ‘The Mint’.
20. Star & Garter Hotel Prominent at the end of the High Street is the black-and-white-painted Star & Garter Hotel, built in 1760 as a residence. For many years, the hotel was the base for the Linlithgow and Stirlingshire Hunt. Gutted by fire in 2010, it has since been restored. 21. High and Low Ports Marked on the roadway across the roundabout is the outline of Linlithgow’s eastern town gates.
22. Regent Centre and Regent Works The modern buildings facing the roundabout replaced the Regent Works of 1902, an italianate factory once operated by Nobel Explosives. 12
23. Low Port Primary School
Beyond the road junction on the left, behind its playing field, is the former Linlithgow Academy building, now occupied by Low Port Primary School. Round towers above the entrances are prominent features of this 1902 building. An optional diversion is to continue further ahead to see…
24. St Michael’s RC Church and Presbytery These Gothic revival buildings dating from 1887 were designed by the renowned church architects, Pugin and Pugin. Cross to the Star & Garter Hotel, then proceed first left up to the station. Enter the station door, continue through the subway to emerge on the south platform.
25. Linlithgow Railway Station Dating from 1842, this is one of the best-preserved original stations of the Edinburgh and Glasgow Railway, which was electrified in 2017. The eastbound waiting room features a large mural of the town’s annual Marches procession by Mary-Louise Coulouris. 26. St Magdalene’s Distillery From the far (east) end of the platform, you can see the distillery buildings where production of single malt whisky ran from 1753 until 1983. Leave the platform and exit through the car park to Back Station Road. Turn right and continue up the hill to the canal bridge.
27. Union Canal Here is the Linlithgow basin of the Union Canal, opened in May 1822, closed to commercial traffic in 1933, and restored to its former glory by the Lottery-funded Millennium Link project. Visit the canal museum, once stables, and tearoom or take a boat trip organised by the Linlithgow Union Canal Society.
Glasgow and Edinburgh Union Canal - Manse Road Basin 13
28. Ross Doocot and Dudley On the opposite side of the canal basin are the Learmonth Gardens, providing a setting for the 16th century Ross Doocot, containing 370 nest boxes. New in July 2018, next to the Union Canal Basin, is “Dudley”, a bronze cat sculpture mounted on a granite plinth - Linlithgow’s feline version of Greyfriars Bobby in Edinburgh. From the Canal Basin, take the canal towpath westwards.
29. Town Wall The high wall on the right hand side of Strawberry Bank going down the hill is part of the 17th century town wall.
John Slezer’s 1693 drawing clearly shows the town wall
30. Rosemount Park and Friars’ Well Across the canal is Rosemount Park, one of Linlithgow’s hidden gems, containing the fountainhead of the Cross Well, which had previously served the Carmelite Friary located further up the hill. 31. Mrs Douglas’ Cottage School The stone cottage on the opposite bank, dating from 1826, once accommodated a girls only school with fees of two pence per week.
Mrs Douglas’ Cottage School Just before the bridge over the canal, turn right downhill.
32. Former Ebenezer Chapel The plaque set in the gable end of
the cottage on the right recalls the use of the building as a meeting house of the Evangelical Union from 1852. 14
Turn left into Royal Terrace.
33. Royal Terrace This one-sided street contains an attractive composition of 19th-century stone houses − note in particular No. 6 with its central ox-eye window. Cross the railway by the footbridge.
34. Lion Well Wynd There is an excellent view over the high wall down Lion Well Wynd, Linlithgow’s steepest, opened circa 1750.
Lion Well Wynd Turn left into Union Road
35. St John’s Evangelical Church The church on the right was
completed in 1840 as a congregational chapel, costing around £750.
36. Prefabs Facing the railway embankment further along are the prefabs of Hamilton Park, temporary houses built after World War II and later cunningly disguised as bungalows by the Town Council! Turn right at Preston Road and walk to the High Street. Look to the left before turning right again towards the starting point.
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The map above is reproduced by courtesy of Ronald P A Smith. The Linlithgow To wn Map is available from local outlets.
37. West Port The Royal Burgh’s western gateway was removed around 1800. Hostelries were established here for travellers shut out for the night. Note Katie Wearie’s Tree (the big willow), the bronze Katie Wearie sundial sculpture created by Tim Chalk in 2011 and the vernacular-inspired 1937 tenement on the corner of the High Street. 38. St Ninian’s Craigmailen Parish Church In the background, westwards on Falkirk Road, is the elegant broach spire of St Ninian’s Craigmailen Church, dating from 1874. Return to The Cross along the south side of the High Street. West Port - The Katie Wearie sundial sculpture by Tim Chalk 16
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39. West Port House You will see West Port House above a retaining wall created when the road was lowered two centuries ago. A laird’s house dating from 1600, it was built by the Hamilton family. 40. New Well Further along, at a street corner, the stone structure on the pavement is the New Well, an 18th-century example of the wellheads that once graced the High Street.
41. Former Baird Hall A lower, set-back building on the left, dating from 1863, has variously served as a Catholic church, a Catholic school, and as the church hall for St Michael’s Parish Church.
42. St Peter’s Episcopal Church Designed by Dick, Peddie and Todd in Byzantine style, this architectural gem of 1928 is set back behind the tenement facades on the right.
St Peter’s Episcopal Church
43. Annet House On the right is a three storey the 18th-century
merchant’s house. Until 2017 it housed Linlithgow’s Town Museum, which is currently being re-located to Tam Dalyell House and is scheduled to re-open in 2019 (see item 48). 18
Annet House
44. The Vennel The large and still-controversial 1967 redevelopment on the left – designed by Rowand Anderson Kininmonth and Paul -was one of the worst losses of historic townscape in Scotland.
45. Shoemakers’ Land Opposite the Vennel flats is Shoemakers’ Land, bearing an armorial plaque reflecting former ownership by the Shoemakers’ Guild and a vanished local industry. In Scotland, Linlithgow’s leather industry was once second only to that of Perth. 46. Dog Well Wynd This wynd is named after the former Dog Well which was supplied from the now-culverted Cross Burn; its wellhead was probably a stone plinth like the other remaining street wells, possibly featuring some representation of a dog’s head. Up the wynd on the right-hand side, the two/three storey scout hall was once McAlpine’s shoe factory and the ‘Spires’ houses further up occupy the site of the Linlithgow West United Presbyterian Church. 47. Court Residence Further along
is the former Sheriff Courthouse of 1863, built in Tudor style and recently converted to visitor accommodation. On its front is a bronze relief commemorating the assassination of Regent Moray in the vicinity in 1570, the world’s first recorded assassination of a head of state by firearm.
48. Linlithgow Partnership Centre/ Tam Dalyell House
This impressive neo-Georgian building was opened by West Lothian County Council in 1935 and converted into Linlithgow Partnership Centre in 2017. It now houses Linlithgow Public Library and the West Lothian Local History Library. Note the former Linlithgow provost’s lamp at the front.
Plaque commemorating the Earl of Moray’s assassination
This completes the Linlithgow Heritage Trail and returns you to the starting point at The Cross. 19
Linlithgow Ale Trail
Linlithgow has a number of welcoming pubs and inns, nine of which have joined together to form the Linlithgow Ale Trail.
Relax and enjoy the friendly atmosphere in Linlithgow’s pubs 20
Perambulation of Linlithgow’s Marches This is both an interesting walk, which can be enjoyed at any time, and an annual Linlithgow event, open to all, which starts at 7pm on the Wednesday evening preceding Linlithgow’s Marches Day. It complements the official Riding of the Marches, giving citizens and visitors the opportunity to walk the line of a recorded boundary (or ‘marches’) of the Royal Burgh.
The Annual Perambulation of Linlithgow’s Marches The walk is four miles (6.5 kilometers) long, and passes by seven out of eight march stones (one original and seven replicas, which were installed in 2014) marking the old parliamentary boundary. Its route passes some 32 features of historical or architectural interest, mostly different from those on the Heritage Trail, and is shown on the map in the centre pages. Full details are given in a separate leaflet, available free from the Burgh Halls and Tam Dalyell House, and are also on Linlithgow’s website at www.linlithgow.com. The ‘Perambulation’ starts in front of St Ninian’s Craigmailen Church in Falkirk Road and proceeds in a clockwise direction round the route. This direction of travel is strongly recommended for safety reasons with regard to visibility at road crossings and steep steps. We hope that you enjoy your walk and that you look out for the march stones along the route, which are inscribed ‘LPB’ (Linlithgow Parliamentary Burgh)! 21
One of the replica March Stones installed in 2014
The Battle of Linlithgow Bridge - 1526 Events Before the Battle
King James IV of Scotland died at the Battle of Flodden in 1513 and was succeeded by his 17 month old son, James V. The King’s widow, Queen Margaret, ruled Scotland as regent until August 1514. She married Archibald Douglas, 6th Earl of Angus and her late husband’s cousin, John, Duke of Albany became regent. Albany served as regent until 1518 when his ill-judged support for a planned French invasion of England force him to resign. The Earl of Queen Margaret Angus, now estranged from the Queen, gained control of his stepson by becoming regent. The Queen promoted several attempts to gain custody of her son. The most determined of these took place in 1526 when the Earl of Lennox raised an army of 10,000 at Stirling and set off for Edinburgh to take the castle and free the king.
The Battle of Linlithgow Bridge: 4 September 1526 On the morning of 4th September 1526, Lennox reached Whitecross to find his way barred at the bridge over the River Avon by a force of 2,000 men loyal to Angus. Realising that a direct assault on the bridge would be costly, Lennox decided to ford the river upstream of the bridge and outflank the defenders. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the defending force managed to hold their position long enough for reinforcements to arrive from Edinburgh. Lennox was forced back across the river, his men in disorder. Wounded, he surrendered his sword but was treacherously murdered near the spot now marked by the Lennox Cairn.
The Lennox Cairn
Aftermath
The king spent a further two years imprisoned by the Earl of Angus. In 1528, he came of age and succeeded to the throne. One of his first acts as king was to force his stepfather into exile. 22
Further Information
Visit the Battle of Linlithgow Bridge website at www.bolb.org.uk. Read Jon Cooper’s book about the battle, The Heart and the Rose, published by Partizan Press.
Walking the Battlefield Trail The Battlefield Trail is a walking trail about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) long over paths that can get muddy, especially where the Trail turns away from the river. Towards the end of the trail the path climbs steeply. There are information panels at Linlithgow Bridge, the Lennox Cairn and on the trail, by the River Avon. Go west along the High Street towards Falkirk. Continue as far as Linlithgow Bridge. Turn left into Mill Road. After 100 yards turn right into Burgh Mills Lane to join the Walking the Battlefield Trail River Avon Heritage Trail. Follow the trail until you reach a small wooden bridge. Just past the bridge look across the river where you might just be able (in autumn and winter) to see the ruins of Manuel Priory amid the trees. Return to the bridge and turn right, away from the river. When you reach open ground, bear left and uphill. On your left is a pond and you should find a path leading to a clearing where the path turns right and climbs steeply. Turn left at a broader path and you will reach open ground. The path on your right leads to a gate where you will see, across a roundabout, the Lennox Cairn which marks the approximate site of the murder of the Earl of Lennox after the battle. Return to Linlithgow Bridge via Mill Road, stopping at the bus shelter to view the panorama across the battlefield. Alternatively, return directly to West Port along Mains Road (A706).
The Battlefield Trail
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Where to Stay in Linlithgow Town Centre
Court Residence (Aparthotel) Garden Cottage (Self-Catering) Low Port Centre Palace View B&B Star & Garter Hotel Strawberry Bank House B&B West Port Hotel
Wider Area
Aran House Arden Country House Bo’mains Farm Champany Inn Lumsdaine House The Queen’s View Bellevue Holiday Lets Bowden Springs Fishery Craigs Lodges Linlithgow Cottages Parkley Farm Cottages Williamscraig Cottages Beecraigs Loch House Farm
1 Court Square 293a High Street 1 Blackness Road 257 High Street 1 High Street 13 Avon Place 18-20 West Port
01506 538687 01506 844417 01506 340720 01506 844010 01506 845647 01506 848372 01506 847456
B&B B&B B&B B&B B&B B&B S/C S/C S/C S/C S/C S/C Caravan Park Caravan Park
01506 842088 01506 670172 01506 822188 01506 834532 01506 845001 07799 836862 07793 227374 01506 847269 07734 833988 07450 249136 01506 842027 07795 040608 01506 844516 01506 848283
Taxis and Cycle Hire
Big Ian’s Taxi Bruce’s Taxis Express Taxis Five Star Taxis Gordon’s Taxi Kenny’s Taxi Linlithgow Taxis Mike’s Taxis Bike & Go (Cycle Hire) Railway Station
07708 106911 01506 828888 01506 824244 01506 847777 01506 264242 01506 671005 01506 260123 01506 848486
Linlithgow Activities (see also: Visitor Attractions/Heritage Trail) Tam Dalyell House Court Square 01506 283880 Bowden Springs Fishery Carribber Mill 01506 847269 Kingsfield Golf & Leisure Kingsfield 01506 671607 Linlithgow Canal Centre Manse Road 01506 671215 Linlithgow Golf Club Braehead 01506 842585 Low Port Centre 1 Blackness Road 01506 775391 Play Bugs Soft Play Mill Road 01506 670113 Xcite Leisure Centre McGinley Way 01506 237960
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Where to Eat and Drink in Linlithgow Town Centre
Bar Leo Black Bitch Tavern Burgh Halls Cabrelli’s Cafébar 1807 Café Delights Coffee Neuk Crown Arms David’s Deli Delhi’s Winter Du Vin Bouchers Fenwick’s of Linlithgow Four Marys From Italy To Scotland Go Rice Golden Chip Granary Café Greggs Igloo Ice Cream Kelpies Bar Linlithgow Tap Mac’s Sweets & Ice Cream Mason Belle’s Kitchen Old Post Office Oliphant’s Bakers Platform 3 So Strawberry Café Star & Garter Hotel Subway Swan Tavern Taste Café Deli Well Bread West Port Express West Port Hotel Zio G’s
Wider Area
Ashmaan Bridge Inn Champany Inn Cuisine Kitchen Mannerstons Park Bistro
50 High Street 14 West Port 10 The Cross 245 High Street 106 High Street 47 High Street 11 The Cross 177 High Street 163 High Street Regent Centre 62 High Street 145 High Street 65-67 High Street Regent Centre 137 High Street 147 High Street 102 High Street Regent Centre 7 High Street 271 High Street 111 High Street 73 The Vennel 52 High Street 29-31 High Street 216 High Street 1A High Street 3 The Cross 1 High Street 117 High Street 248 High Street 47 High Street 234 High Street 8 West Port 18-20 West Port 6 West Port
01506 238580 01506 842171 01506 237558 01506 848888 01506 844523 01506 253408 01506 671579 01506 840974 07849 083910 07740 984744 01506 845159 01506 843867 01506 844889 01506 842099 01506 847405 01506 843333 01506 845647 01506 671852 01506 845008 01506 844445 01506 847007 01506 842156 01506 847456 01506 848072
25 Mill Road Linlithgow Bridge Near M9 Junction 6 Springfield Court A904 Union Canal
01506 845097 01506 842777 01506 834532 01506 670808 01506 834949 01506 846666
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01506 846667 01506 842147 01506 282720 01506 842462 01506 847586 01506 844445 01506 846097 01506 844434 01506 845552 01506 671611
Linlithgow High Street Shops Linlithgow’s Historic High Street
A wealth of independent shops, many award-winning, await visitors to Linlithgow’s historic High Street. From amenities such as butchers, bakeries and DIY, to gift shops, craft shops and studios, clothing, footwear and accessory stores for children and adults, a Fairtrade shop, a bookshop, cafes, restaurants, beauty salons and more – everyone is catered for. Stay a little longer in one of the High Street hotels and experience the real Linlithgow. Whether you have time to linger or are looking for a quick souvenir and a bite to eat, Linlithgow High Street is ready to welcome you. A Wee Mindin’ (Gifts) 48 High Street Autobits 185 High Street Barnardo’s Regent Centre Boots 70-72 High Street British Red Cross 217 High Street Cancer Research UK 107 High Street Centre Stage Dancewear 86 High Street Chest, Heart & Stroke 220 High Street Complete Health 159 High Street Crafted Merchant 211 High Street Creative Workshop Debra Regent Centre E-Cig Studio 222a High Street Elevation Cycles 103 High Street Fair Tradewinds 131 High Street Far From The Madding Crowd 20 High Street Flowers By Carolyn 171 High Street Fone Republic 276b High Street Igloo Ice Cream 7 High Street J. Walker Carpets 2 The Vennel Jewellery By Design 121 High Street Kapital Kilts 114 High Street Lilypond Crafts & Gifts 25 High Street Mac’s Sweets & Ice Cream 73 The Vennel Kütchenhaus 33-37 High Street Lilypond Crafts & Gifts 25 High Street Line Gallery 238 High Street Linlithgow DIY 167 High Street Linlithgow Papercraft 230 High Street Linlithgow Pet Shop 175 High Street Linlithgow Stoves & Gifts 228 High Street Little Beau Peep 71 High Street Lloyds Pharmacy 286 High Street M & Co 5 The Vennel M74: Method Studio 74 High Street McColl’s 258 High Street Mid-C-Mod 78 High Street News & Card Shop 28 High Street Oxfam 98 High Street Purely Patchwork 43 High Street 26
01506 848313 01506 671200 01506 840949 01506 846371 01506 671658 01506 848552 01506 209916 01506 846020 01506 847270 01506 253912 07557 784020 01506 340314 01506 843328 01506 845390 01506 840348 01506 845509 01506 847724 01506 847444 01506 840974 01506 670777 01506 239292 01506 843658 01506 840225 01506 845159 01506 845400 01506 840225 01506 670268 01506 670924 01506 238300 01506 844096 01506 842464 01506 848196 01506 670280 01506 846375 01506 843478 01506 671176 01506 842155 01506 671217 01506 846200
Qworth Fashion Sebastian Kobelt Chocolatier Semi-Chem T.D. Anderson (Butcher) Tesco The Thread Counter Truly Scrumptious Cakes Two Feet First (Kids’ Shoes) Vaporized West End Gallery William Holleran (Butcher) Wilson’s Newsagents
Linlithgow Services
Alan Steel Asset Management Andy’s Bike Clinic BP Petrol Station Bank Of Scotland The Barber Beautique Beauty Salon Brian Easton Dental Chakir Hairdressing Cross Barbers Cross Cuts Hairdressing Debbie Stevenson Hair Detail Hair Dollhouse EK:JN Architects Elle Hair & Beauty Eye Tec First Adventures Nursery First Impressions Hair Hendry Optometrists Im-Pressed Kütchenhaus Ladbrokes Language Room Linlithgow Chiropractic Linlithgow Dental Care Linlithgow Library Linlithgow Physiotherapy Linlithgow Town Centre Hub Linlithgow Travel Linlithgow Tyres & Exhausts Mackie & Brechin Ltd. (Vet) Marchwood Accountancy Massage Therapists Money Check Morfose Barber Natural Therapies Orme Law Partnership Centre (WLC)
205 High Street 34 High Street Regent Centre 165 High Street Regent Centre 75 The Vennel 1 The Cross 73 High Street 56 High Street 12 The Cross 82 High Street 1 The Vennel
01506 238850 01506 840602 01506 846938 01506 842140 03456 779432 01506 842013 01506 671133 01506 847576 01506 847850 01506 204804 01506 845098 01506 843213
28 Blackness Road 226 High Street 30 Falkirk Road Regent Centre 30 High Street 222 High Street 24 High Street 254 High Street 15 The Cross 79 High Street 2 The Cross 13 High Street 77 The Vennel 129 High Street 264 High Street Regent Centre 43A High Street 157 High Street 17 High Street 269 High Street 33 High Street Regent Centre 273 High Street 39 High Street 49 High Street Court Square 26C High Street 28 The Vennel 212 High Street 29 Blackness Road 256 High Street 77a High Street 214 High Street Regent Centre 37 High Street 13 The Cross 129 High Street Court Square
01506 842365 07765 407663 01506 671346 01506 770201 01506 840333 01506 844002 01506 842011 01506 671800 07411 007531 01506 840883 01506 844800 01506 670429 01506 847222 01506 847151 01506 842456 01506 847686 01506 844344 01506 842334 01506 842751 01506 840600 01506 845400 0800 0304496 01506 670009 01506 844488 01506 847923 01506 283880 01506 238189 01506 283240 01506 846841 01506 843000 01506 842374 01506 798421 01506 551395 01506 848900 07593 562695 01506 842781 01506 845300 01506 280000
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Paul Rolfe Estates Peterkin & Kidd Solicitors Post Office Retail Stocktaking Retreat RGM Solicitors Robert Callander Opticians Star Barbers :thatstudio Architects Thomas Veitch Solicitors Tile Studio Timpson’s Tranquil Room West Port Dental Practice Your Move
4 The Vennel 4 High Street 266 High Street 100 High Street 213 High Street 19-21 High Street 61 High Street 76 The Vennel 100 High Street 12 High Street 18b High Street 74 The Vennel 129a High Street 261 High Street 9 High Street
Useful Phone Numbers
Emergency Services (All) Crimestoppers Police (Non-Emergency) NHS 24 (Non-Emergency) Royal Hospital for Sick Children Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh St. John’s Hospital Livingston Edinburgh Airport Glasgow Airport National Rail Enquiries West Lothian Council
01506 844097 01506 845191 01506 845635 01506 843444 01506 669222 01506 847070 01506 670766 01506 237794 01506 201463 01506 842100 01506 847550 01506 671873 01506 847722 01506 842748 01506 844993 999 0800 555 111 101 111 0131 536 0000 0131 536 1000 01506 523000 0844 448 8833 0844 481 5555 0345 748 4950 01506 280000
The website www.linlithgow.com gives detailed information about shops, services and activities in Linlithgow, and much more. If you’re planning your holiday travel, visit the “Getting To Linlithgow” page.
Acknowledgements
This free visitor information leaflet was produced by local organisations, co-ordinated by John Aitken on behalf of Pride & Passion Linlithgow. Thanks to Ron Smith for permission to use parts of his town map. Photographs were kindly provided by John Aitken, Archie McKinnon, Kingsfield Leisure, LUCS, David Shirres, Calum Smith, Ron Smith, Stuart Vance and Visit West Lothian. Funding was provided by the Linlithgow Town Centre Business Improvement District, Visit West Lothian, Court Residence, Linlithgow Burgh Trust, Linlithgow Union Canal Society, Mary’s Meanders, WLC Councillors, Linlithgow Business Association and the Battle of Linlithgow Bridge group. It was printed locally by JMK. The content was checked for accuracy in April 2018.
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Pride & Passion Linlithgow
This voluntary group aims to improve the information provided to visitors. As well as producing this leaflet, Pride & Passion Linlithgow contributes to Linlithgow’s website www.linlithgow. com and has installed webcams at the Cross and at Linlithgow Canal Centre.
Linlithgow Town Centre BID
The Linlithgow Town Centre Business Improvement District aims to support businesses in Linlithgow. The BID maintains Linlithgow’s website at www.linlithgow.com
Visit West Lothian
This organisation works with local businesses to promote the wonderful places to visit and stay across West Lothian. Go to www.visitwestlothian. co.uk for inspiration!
Linlithgow Burgh Trust
Originator of the Linlithgow Heritage Trail, the Linlithgow Burgh Trust seeks to preserve the character of Linlithgow. It has two main operating groups: Linlithgow Civic Trust who promote the conservation of Linlithgow’s built heritage, and Burgh Beautiful Linlithgow volunteers who enhance Linlithgow with flower beds and hanging baskets.
Linlithgow Heritage Trust
Responsible for Linlithgow’s town museum, formerly located in Annet House, which is currently in process of relocation to Tam Dalyell House. It is scheduled to re-open in 2019.
Linlithgow Union Canal Society
The voluntary organisation that operates boat trips, the canal museum and tearoom at Linlithgow Canal Centre.
Linlithgow Business Association
The Linlithgow Business Association is a vibrant community organisation supporting local businesses in Linlithgow and Linlithgow Bridge. 29
Dates of 2018 & 2019 Events in Linlithgow There’s lots happening in Linlithgow all year round. Many events are listed online in the “What’s On?” events diary at www. linlithgow.com. Here are the dates of some key events in 2018 and 2019. Most of them provide more details on-line. Last Friday every Month till Fri November 30: Late Night Shopping Shops, cafes, salons and creative spaces are open late with many outlets offering special discounts on the night. Wed 13 June 2018 & Wed 12 June 2019 at 7:00pm: Perambulation of Linlithgow’s Marches A four-mile mile group walk around the town’s old boundaries, led by flags and a piper (see p20).
Tues 19 June 2018 & Tues 18 June 2019: Linlithgow Marches Day Linlithgow’s “Big Day”! Bands, floats, processions & fairground rides. Sat 23 June 2018 & Sat 22 June 2019: Children’s Gala Day Procession from Linlithgow Bridge and crowning ceremony on The Peel.
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Sat 30 June 2018 & Sun 1 July 2018 from 12:30: Spectacular Jousting on the Peel (July) Historic Environment Scotland invite you to step back into medieval times with knights jousting on their noble steeds. Wed 11 July until Wed 8 August 2018 , 10 July to 7 August 2019 at 7:30pm: Scotch Hop Scottish Country Dancing for everyone at Linlithgow Palace. Sat 11 & Sun 12 August 2018: Glen’s Party at the Palace Music Festival Enjoy headline music acts at this family friendly festival whilst overlooking the beautiful Linlithgow Loch. Sun 19 August 2018 & Sat 18 August 2019 from 1pm: Canal Fun Day Fun on the Water, featuring the famous Cardboard Boat Race!
Sat 25 August 2018: Linlithgow Classic Car Day Over 100 classic cars on display around The Cross and on The High Street. Sat 1 & Sun 2 September 2018: Doors Open Days Free access to buildings and other venues in Linlithgow and across West Lothian. Wed 5 to Sun 9 September 2018: Linlithgow Folk Festival Musicians and folk groups performing throughout the town. Fireworks Night at Linlithgow Rugby Club (November) Bonfire and Fireworks - a safe family event. Sat 24 November 2018 & Sat 23 November 2019: Advent Fayre Stalls at The Cross and Burgh Halls, torchlight procession and carol singing. 31
Linlithgow Town Centre Map
©Copyright 2018 – Ronald P A Smith. Based on Ordnance Survey Mapping with the permission of HMSO. All Rights Reserved. Ordnance Survey License No. 10006044
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