Linlithgow has long been known for its wells. There's an old rhyme which begins, 'Glasgow for…read morebells, Lithgow for wells' There are several ancient wells still to be found here, including Dog Well, New Well, Lion Well and St Michael's Well. This last is surmounted with the 1720 (perhaps earlier) statue of St Michael with the words underneath, St Michael is kinde to strangers. It's very worn (as you'd expect) and isn't used as a well any more. The saint is holding a shield bearing the town's coat of arms: a black dog, chained to an oak tree on an island, probably in the middle of Linlithgow Loch. St Michael is the patron saint of Linlithgow Church and also the burgh.

Located right next to the equally famous Linlithgow Palace is St Michael's Church, one of the…read morelargest "burgh churches" in Scotland, and regarded as one of the finest. The Church that stands today was built in the 1100s but was greatly damaged in the 1424 fire that also destroyed the Palace. It also has some major 19th century renovations too. Like many places around Edinburgh, Cromwell stabled his horses inside and much damage was done to the interior. Despite all this, the Church is a great example of an early and late medieval burgh building. This is also where Mary Queen of Scots was christened and, I believe, where her father James V was crowned. The church has a very distinctive modern steeple, which resembles crisscrossing metal spikes. Reactions to this contemporary addition are mixed. Its actually supposed to resemble Christ's crown of thorns. No matter your feelings, its certainly interesting and a great talking point. The Church is certainly worth at least a quick look around, especially if you're on your way to the Palace. Its the sort of place that has so much concentrated history its quite hard to believe. It's also a popular venue for weddings and other services.

Great place for a dog walk. You can do a fairly short loop, or extend it right around the estate…read more Definitely a hidden gem in the area that isn't too busy even on a nice day. They have ample parking and there is a museum too.

These spectacular Italianate buildings (splendid both inside and out) were finished in 1886 and the…read morebeautiful Victoria Tower (75m in height) can be seen dominating the skyline from many parts of the town. Unfortunately, the Municipal Buildings remain uncompleted to this day as a local man, Robert Cowan, refused to sell his business in front of the tower. As a result, the shop was inserted into one corner but was destroyed during a bombing raid in 1941, leaving the unusual effect still seen today. The bricks are different to the rest and this area has become known as 'Cowan's Corner'. These days the Municipal Buildings include the Town Hall and various Council offices. There are a few parking spaces nearby but it's very difficult to find a space. However, there is a large public car park only about 5 minutes walk away.

Standing just over 200ft (61m) high, and known as the Gothic Rocket, the Scott Monument is often…read moremistaken for a church - understandably, perhaps - and dominates the view of the eastern section of New Town along Princes Street. Following Scott's death in 1832 the people of Edinburgh decided that a monument should be built in memory of one of Scotland's best-loved literary figures. At the time he was probably the most widely read British author of the era. The Scott Monument is the largest monument to a writer in the world. some data says, its 2nd largest though. This is especially fitting, given that Edinburgh is a UNESCO City of Literature, having been home to many notable writers, such Scott, Burns, Stevenson, Conan Doyle and many more! There are 287 steps to the top of the Scott Monument, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside.

This gothic monument to the famous Scottish writer (Sir Walter Scott) is so dark and mysterious…read morelooking during the day. It's an even better view at night when it's all lit up. It kind of makes you wonder what it actually looked like before it soaked up "auld reekie's" pollution back in the 19th century. In a way, the black soot actually gives it more character. It's also a nice contrast with the white Carrara marble statue of the writer. Do you see his dog (named Maida) laying to the right of him? So cute! So, if you can actually see the outer architectural details then you're in for a treat. It stands at 200 feet tall and has about 64 statues that represent some of the most notable characters in his novels. To be honest, I was more impressed with the gargoyles. We didn't attempt to go inside to climb up to the top of it, but many pay to do that. I'm sure it's a nice view. The courtyard surrounding it was being decorated for Remembrance Day celebrations. I loved seeing all the crosses and red poppies around it. It's definitely a must see monument, and certainly one that you're going to eventually pass by at some point during your stay in Edinburgh.

Built in 1761, the Pineapple was a birthday present for the Earl of Dunmore's wife, Susan, daughter…read moreof the 9th Duke of Hamilton. Because nothing says 'Happy Birthday' more than an exotic fruit-topped summerhouse! Now belonging to the National Trust of Scotland, the Pineapple really is an odd sight to see. The building itself is large and regal; the pineapple on top the evident show stealer. It is every bit as eccentric as it sounds and really worth the trip to visit and wander the grounds. When we visited during a group cycle, there was some ongoing maintenance at the front of the building. But this was alright. - We could still see the pineapple! You can rent out the Pineapple which I imagine would be quite the experience. I like to think that, back in the day, it was host to some epic Gatsby-esque parties, sipping on gin and partying like it's 1761. Because when faced with several invitations, I've no doubt that it was this pineapple adorned estate which people chose to rock up at. I wish I could time-travel back to see! Why did the exotic fruit-on-house thing never catch on? I'd totally want a mango-adorned house.

Beautiful house & well kept gardens & nature pond.read more

I've been there not so long ago and I'd recommend this place for anyone who wants to get away from…read morethe city rush but not move away from the city itself. Large gardens with lots of footpaths around the castle plus stunning views over the Firth of Forth (especially on a bright and sunny day), quiet with a bit of Victorian atmosphere stil in the air. A trip for a half a day with a picnic basket higly recommended!!

I visited the House of the Binns 18/9/19;with a group of people from RNIB Scotland. I found it…read morevery fascinating to knew about the House of the Bins and the family that have stayed there. It was nice to learn more and to learn something new about it

Nice place for a short walk. Will be honest, haven't been inside the Palace but landscape is…read morebeautiful enough. Short woodland path leads us on the top of small local hill, where you are finding small observation tower. Despite the fact that tower's door are locked, we can not enter to inside, it's worth to go, place is peaceful and quiet and view is amazing.

We parked in one of the pay lots about ten minutes away…read more The abbey was free to visit but entrance was one way in via the nave and out after touring the abbey church. The nave was sparse but contained some beautiful stained glass windows. Many of Scotland's royalty were interred on site. A model of Robert the Bruce's head was also on display. Inside the abbey church we learned more about its most famous occupant, Robert the Bruce. He was buried underneath the pulpit and a recreation of his crypt was on display. I noticed that staff interacted with the two other visiting groups but not us eventhough we were inside longer than either one. We exited by the gift shop. The old palace required admission but it was covered under our Historic Scotland pass. The initial decent from the entrance down to the ground level was via a dark and tight circular staircase. Signage was good and helped provide a detailed explanation for the ruins we wandered around. The only part that we could not walk through was the refectory. Overall a great final stop to finalize our Scotland trip.

Dunfermline Abbey and Palace is an architectural heaven and she's 1,000 years old. Founded in 1128…read moreby King David I, The site has served various roles throughout the centuries, from a place of worship and royal residence to a burial ground. The Abbey itself is an architectural marvel, featuring intricate Medieval, Romanesque and Gothic designs. The Abbey Church, which is a current place of worship, is home to the tomb of Robert the Bruce, one of Scotland's most celebrated kings. Robert the Bruce successfully led Scotland during the First War of Scottish Independence against England. He restored Scotland to an independent kingdom and is regarded in Scotland as a national hero. Wonderful visit.