Regional Royal driving itineraries for Scotland
Day 1
Start at Jedburgh’s Mary Queen of Scots Visitor Centre: located in the house stayed in by Mary, Queen of Scots, the centre tells the story of her life. Over in Innerleithen is Traquair House, visited by Mary and 25 other English and Scottish monarchs. Into Edinburgh to the dominating Castle fortress where Mary gave birth to the future James I. Depending on your visit, catch a performance or even a whole Festival.
Overnight: Edinburgh
Day 2
The Palace of Holyroodhouse where Mary lived for six years is still the premier Royal residence in Scotland, and the new Queen’s Gallery showcases many amazing Royal Collection pieces. On The Royal Yacht Britannia you can explore contemporary Royal life both above and below decks. Romantic Loch Leven Castle, scene of Mary’s enforced abdication, can only be reached by boat, which made it fairly impregnable.
Overnight: Edinburgh
Day 3
James V’s magnificently restored Linlithgow fountain dominates the palace courtyard of his daughter, Mary’s, birthplace. She was crowned Queen at magnificent Stirling Castle, a stronghold offering fascinating insights into the Stewart monarchs. Finally, call into the courtyard castle of Doune, where the splendid Lord’s Hall is much as it was for Mary’s visit.