Mary Queen of Scots Exhibition Comes to Bolton Castle in 2027

About

Bolton Castle near Leyburn in North Yorkshire has announced a major new historical exhibition for 2027. Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition will open on 6 March 2027 and run until 5 September 2027.

The exhibition explores the life, legacy and lasting interest surrounding Mary Stuart, from her birth in 1542 to her execution in 1587. It will be the first time the exhibition has been presented at a location where Mary Queen of Scots was held during her captivity.

A Historically Significant Setting

Bolton Castle has a close connection to Mary Queen of Scots, who stayed there for six months during her imprisonment. The castle has long displayed rooms dressed to reflect her time in Wensleydale, making it a fitting setting for this exhibition.

The exhibition will be housed within the castle’s historic rooms and will feature museum-grade display cases, atmospheric graphics and period styling. Visitors will be able to explore a detailed account of Mary’s life, reign and legacy through original artefacts, immersive displays and visual interpretation.

Original Artefacts and Immersive Displays

Visitors to Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition at Bolton Castle will encounter a collection of objects and displays linked to one of British history’s most debated figures.

• Original artefacts associated with Mary Queen of Scots
• A rosary, lock of hair and tapestries thought to have links to Mary
• Costumes and immersive displays
• Interpretive materials exploring her life, imprisonment and legacy
• Displays set within rooms connected to her stay at Bolton Castle

Jacqui Naylor, General Manager at Bolton Castle, said the exhibition offers visitors the opportunity to see original artefacts within a setting closely connected to Mary’s story. She added that the exhibition provides a view of Mary beyond the royal image, highlighting the woman behind the history.

Exhibition Curator John White said the team was delighted to stage Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition at Bolton Castle, describing it as the first castle to host the exhibition and a place Mary knew well.

Exhibition Dates and Ticket Information

Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition opens at Bolton Castle on 6 March 2027 and runs until 5 September 2027.

• Adult entry: £16.50
• Concession entry: £14.00
• Family ticket: £68.00
• Opening times: 10am to 3.30pm daily
• Group bookings: Groups of 15 or more receive £1 off adult and concession prices
• Included: Entry to Bolton Castle and gardens

Tickets for 2027 are available now through boltoncastle.co.uk.