One of the country’s best preserved medieval castles, Bolton Castle near Leyburn in North Yorkshire, has announced a major new historical exhibition for 2027.
Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition opens in March next year and is the first time the exhibition will be seen at a location where Mary Stuart was held.
Exploring the life, legacy and enduring fascination of Mary Queen of Scots, this captivating exhibition offers 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.
The exhibition combines original historical artefacts, immersive displays and striking visual design to bring her story vividly to life.
Event info
Its arrival holds particular historical significance as 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 and Bolton Castle has always honoured her stay in Wensleydale.

With displays housed within museum-grade display cases and enhanced by atmospheric graphics and period styling, the exhibition presents a compelling narrative of triumph, intrigue and tragedy.
Visitors will encounter a rich collection of objects and interpretive materials that illuminate Mary’s life, reign and legacy, one that has captivated audiences for over four centuries.





