Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition
Immersive royal history at her medieval prison.

---

Posted on 31st October 2026

---

Step inside one of England's best-preserved medieval strongholds to uncover Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition at historic Bolton Castle.

Held in the very fortress where Mary Stuart was held captive following her flight to England in 1568, this immersive showcase brings her tragic and dramatic world into vivid focus. Through museum-grade displays, rare surviving relics, and historical interpretation, visitors can retrace the turbulent life of Scotland's most famous monarch within the authentic stone walls of her former prison.

Mary Queen of Scots has captivated imaginations across the globe for more than four centuries, continuing to inspire literature, television, and film. This exhibition traces her journey from her royal birth at Linlithgow Palace in 1542, through her reign in France and Scotland, to her captivity in Yorkshire and her execution at Fotheringhay Castle in 1587. Museum-grade glass cabinets house rare artefacts, thoughtfully paired with illuminated graphics that chronicle both the triumphs and heartbreaks of her 44 years.

Exhibition Highlights 👑📜

What to look forward to during your visit to Bolton Castle:

• Rare & Priceless Artefacts: Inspect an exceptional collection of historical objects, personal items, and archival imagery from the Elizabethan and Tudor eras.
• The Authentic Captivity Chambers: Walk through the medieval rooms where Mary was held under guard for six months by Sir Francis Knollys.
• Immersive Visual Storytelling: Explore curated graphic panels and interpretive displays detailing her political conflicts, personal rivalries, and dramatic trials.
• Medieval Castle & Grounds: Your visit includes access to five floors of the historic fortress, medieval gardens, bird of prey displays, and panoramic Wensleydale views.

---

Plan Your Visit 📅

Key visitor details to help plan your day out at Bolton Castle:

🎟️

Admission

Timed exhibition entry is £16.50 for adults, £14.00 concessions, and £68.00 for families (includes castle and gardens). Check official event info & tickets for booking details.

📅

Dates & Times

6th March – 5th September 2027
• Daily entry sessions run from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM (Castle grounds open until 5:00 PM).

🚗

Parking

Dedicated visitor parking is available directly adjacent to the castle grounds in the village of Castle Bolton.

☕

Food & Drink

The castle tearoom serves freshly baked scones, homemade lunches, hot drinks, and pre-bookable afternoon teas from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Getting There 🗺️

📍 Event Location:

Bolton Castle, Castle Bolton, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 4ET

---

🚗 By Car

Located in heart of Wensleydale, approximately 6 miles west of Leyburn off the A684. Follow brown tourist signs for Bolton Castle via Redmire.

🚆 By Train & Bus

Heritage rail connects via the Wensleydale Railway from Leeming Bar to Leyburn. Local Dales bus routes connect Leyburn with local villages, or visitors can take a short taxi journey to the castle gates.