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Blackness Castle

Blackness, Linlithgow

Blackness Castle is often referred to as "the ship that never sailed" due to the mighty fortifications that make the 15th-century structure look like an ocean-going vessel. The castle has served as a royal residence, prison, artillery fortification, and fortress over the centuries, and now one of Scotland’s most impressive strongholds is a popular tourist attraction.

Although most of its buildings are empty today, Blackness Castle is open to the public as a historic monument. An exhibition provides insight into the history of the castle, including information about the powerful Crichton family, for whom it was built. Visitors can also climb the towers or the curtain wall for sweeping views over the Firth of Forth—the best views are from the central tower.

The castle has been featured in the Outlander television series and is a stop on many Outlander-themed tours, which offer convenient transportation and behind-the-scenes appeal. Blackness Castle also appeared in the 2018 movies Mary Queen of Scots and Outlaw King.

  • Blackness Castle is a must-visit for Outlander fans and anyone interested in Scottish history.

  • Occasionally the castle has to close due to bad weather, so check the forecast in advance.

  • Uneven ground and cobblestones make getting around difficult for visitors using wheelchairs.

Blackness Castle is a 50-minute drive northwest of Edinburgh and 15 minutes north of Linlithgow. If you're using public transit, take the Glasgow-bound train from Edinburgh to Linlithgow, then the number 45 bus to The Square in Bo’ness, followed by the F49 bus to the castle; the whole trip takes a little under 90 minutes.

From April through September, the castle is open every day from morning to early evening (with the last entry 30 minutes before closing). From October through March, it's open every day from morning to late afternoon.

Visiting Blackness Castle puts you within easy reach of the ancient town of Linlithgow, 15 minutes away. It's worth making the time to explore the town’s attractions, including Linlithgow Palace, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, which is attractively positioned on the edge of Linlithgow Loch.

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