Mary Queen of Scots - History and Mystery
Tour Highlights
Join us for a day of discovery in Edinburgh as we explore the world of Mary Queen of Scots and her legacy as the last ‘sacred queen’. We look at the history and delve deep into the mysteries that laced through the life of Scotland’s last Catholic monarch. Exploring the end of an era for Scotland and the tragic queen, we venture to three of Scotland’s most historic and mysterious sites.
Gilmerton Cove
Rosslyn Chapel
Craigmillar Castle
Itinerary
Although Mary is not known to have visited Gilmerton Cove it is an enchanting introduction to the mysteries and beliefs through which her life and legend were understood.
Gilmerton Cove
We visit deep underground and the hidden depths that concealed the mysteries and cults of old Scotland through dark days of fanaticism and witch burning.
We also consider whether this unique site might be linked by tunnel to Craigmillar and by mysterious cult practices to Rosslyn. Is this the original cove of the witches’ coven?
Rosslyn Chapel
Rosslyn Chapel is one of the most mysterious monuments in the world, inextricably linked with the Sacred or Divine Feminine Principle, the sensational subject of Dan Brown’s ‘DaVinci Code’ in which the Chapel took centre stage.
Find out why this was a favourite site of worship for Mary herself. We ponder on the nature of the famous but undivulged secret that the Sinclairs of Rosslyn Chapel entrusted to Mary’s mother. Mary’s mother was a Lady of the House of Guise Lorraine, descendents of the first Knights Templar. Could she have brought the fabled Holy Blood into the British Royal family through her royal daughter? Mystery is all around at Rosslyn and the surrounding glen is as sacred as the Chapel itself.
Lunch is at the Sheep Heid, Edinburgh’s oldest pub dating from around 1360. Mary is said to have stopped here many times and even played skittles in the courtyard behind the pub. Contemporary visitors can still enjoy a game.
Craigmillar Castle
Craigmillar Castle is the focus of Mary’s greatest mystery. It was here, at Scotland’s best medieval castle, the murder of Mary’s middle husband – Henry Lord Darnley – was planned.
The castle was a favourite site with both her and her mother; a place of safety. Mary was visiting Craigmillar Castle when Darnley’s murder was planned. But did she know? Was she aware of the plan? This is the mystery that has always haunted Mary’s reputation, from life into death.
Want to learn more about Scottish history? Book the Edinburgh City and Castles tour.
