A Queen at a week old and then executed for treason at the age of 44, the life of Mary, Queen of Scots was married by troubled marriages, betrayal, sickness, rebellion and murder.
As she sought to hold her reign, the castles of Scotland became central to her peace and safety as she sought sanctuary and the loyalty of her supporters. Born at Linlithgow Palace in 1542, here we look at nine other castles central to the story of Scotland’s doomed queen.
9. Craignethan Castle, Lanarkshire
Mary headed to Craignethan following her escape from Lochleven and spent her final days in Scotland here. In search of the strongest of fortresses, this Lanarkshire pile provided the necessary security as she rebuilt her army. Her final defeat at the Battle of Langside was only a few days away. Photo: Brian D Osborne/CC