Linlithgow: palace, loch and canal
Linlithgow is a small town with a lot of history. The ruined Linlithgow Palace, where Mary Queen of Scots was born in 1542, stands on a hill above Linlithgow Loch. Next to it is St Michael's Church, easy to spot by its modern aluminium crown spire, added in 1964. Plenty of people have opinions on it.
Who books us here
Visitors on day trips from Edinburgh, often combining the palace with Blackness Castle on the Forth shore. Blackness is about fifteen minutes away and was used as a filming location for Outlander, so it gets busy. A minibus makes the two together an easy half day.
Wedding parties are the other big group. There are several venues in and around the town, and guests usually need taking from a hotel to the ceremony and then on to the reception.
Local events
The Linlithgow Marches take place in June. It's the town's big day, with a procession and a lot of celebrating. If you're planning a group outing around it, book early and allow for road closures in the town centre.
Also nearby
The Linlithgow Canal Centre on the Union Canal runs short boat trips in summer. Beecraigs Country Park is in the hills just south of town.
Getting in and out
Linlithgow has a station on the main Edinburgh to Glasgow line, so some of your group may come by train. Edinburgh Airport is around 20 minutes by road, which makes Linlithgow a good starting point for airport runs too.
Prices and journey times from Linlithgow
| Journey | Distance | Drive | 8 seats from | 16 seats from |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linlithgow to Edinburgh Airport | 11 mi | ~30 min | £80 | £130 |
| Linlithgow to Edinburgh Waverley Station | 20 mi | ~50 min | £70 | £115 |
| Linlithgow to Edinburgh city centre | 20 mi | ~50 min | £70 | £115 |
| Linlithgow to Murrayfield Stadium | 18 mi | ~45 min | £65 | £115 |
| Linlithgow to Glasgow Airport | 41 mi | ~65 min | £135 | £160 |
One-way prices for a weekday daytime pick-up, taken from our current rates and including VAT where it applies. Late nights, weekends, returns and your exact address can change the figure, so use the booking form for the real price.
Questions about minibus hire in Linlithgow
How long does it take to get from Linlithgow to Edinburgh Airport?
It's about 11 miles by road, usually around 30 minutes outside rush hour. Leave more time for early-morning and Friday-evening flights. A one-way 8-seat minibus currently starts from £80.
Can we do Linlithgow Palace and Blackness Castle in one trip?
Yes. Book hourly hire for three or four hours, or a return transfer with a stop. The driver can wait at each place while you look around.
