Bolton Castle, near Leyburn in North Yorkshire, has announced a major new historical exhibition for 2027 which explores the life, legacy and enduring fascination of Mary Queen of Scots.
Coming to one of the country’s best preserved medieval castles, Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition will open in March next year – and will be the first time the exhibition is seen at a location where Mary Stuart was held.
Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition opens 6 March 2027 at Bolton Castle and runs to 5 September 2027.
The new exhibition will offer visitors a journey through the dramatic life of one of history’s most iconic and controversial monarchs, tracing her story from her birth in 1542 to her execution in 1587, and combining original historical artefacts, immersive displays and striking visual design.
The exhibition’s arrival at Bolton Castle holds particular historical significance. Bolton Castle has long shown rooms dressed for Mary Queen of Scots’ stay of six months – often thought to be her longest period of captivity. Her continual imprisonment and eventual beheading is seen as one of the most controversial periods of British history.
Exhibition curator, John White, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be staging Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition at Bolton Castle. The first castle to host our exhibition and a place that she knew well.”
Jacqui Naylor, general manager at Bolton Castle added: “This is a tremendous opportunity for the castle to host such an acclaimed exhibition and to show visitors many original artefacts which were touched by Mary, such as her rosary, a lock of hair and tapestries which are thought to have been sewn by her very hands.
“In addition, costumes and immersive displays bring the story alive, all now to be seen for the first time within the walls of rooms she may have known well. The exhibition also brings resonance to her sad story and a glimpse behind the royal facade at the woman herself.
“We are immensely proud to have this stunning exhibition from March to September and look forward to 2027.”
From royal intrigue and political rivalry to personal tragedy and enduring myth, the exhibition explores the many dimensions of Mary’s life, offering fresh insights for both history enthusiasts and general visitors alike.
To find out more and book your tickets for 2027, visit Bolton Castle’s website here.
Exhibition entry is £16.50 per adult, with concession and family discounts available. Tickets include entry to castle and gardens.
