The nickname ‘Dreamthorp’ was coined for the Royal and Ancient Burgh of Linlithgow by celebrated Victorian essayist Alexander Smith. He described it as ‘a castle, a chapel, a lake, a straggling strip of grey houses, with a blue film of smoke over all, lying embossed in emerald. Nothing could be more peaceful.’ Linlithgow, while as beautiful as ever, has long since awakened from its Brigadoon-like slumber to become one of Scotland’s most prosperous and emerging communities, its location making it a popular choice for commuters who travel daily to work in either Edinburgh or Glasgow.

With over 200 photographs, this book vividly portrays the development of Linlithgow from a small, country market town to the dynamic, bustling place that it is today. Particular attention is paid to the town’s heritage, including its claim to fame as the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, at its Lochside Royal Palace in 1542. There is, however, much more to Linlithgow’s past than the Scottish Court, and many other aspects of life in the town are covered, from the trades that made it self-sufficient, to the canal and railway which helped its development. The Burgh’s rich past is also celebrated annually with the ‘Riding of the Marches’.

This photographic trip will rekindle many memories for long-time residents and will give newer residents an insight into the remarkable heritage of their town.