Bolton Castle Announces Major Exhibition for 2027
Tuesday, 9th June 2026
Press Release 9 June 2026
Major Exhibition Announced for 2027 at Bolton Castle
One of the country’s best preserved medieval castles, Bolton Castle near Leyburn in North Yorkshire, announces a forthcoming 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.
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 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.
Jacqui Naylor, General Manager at Bolton Castle adds: “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.”
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.’
Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition has been widely praised for its ability to transport audiences into the past, combining authentic artefacts, detailed storytelling and evocative staging to create an engaging and educational experience. 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.
Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition opens 6 March and runs to 5 September 2027.
Tickets are available now for 2027 from: Mary Queen of Scots: The Exhibition | Bolton Castle
ENDS
Exhibition entry £16.50 per adult, £14.00 concession, £68.00 family. 10am to 3.30pm daily. Groups of 15 and above £1 off adult and concession prices. Tickets include entry to castle and gardens. Email info@boltoncastle.co.uk for details for all visitors and for more groups information.
For more information and general images, please contact Kendra at Kendra@kendrapr.co.uk or call 07910 214474.
For general information on Bolton Castle, visit https://www.boltoncastle.co.uk/
Bolton Castle, near Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 4ET
Tel: 01969 623981 Email info@boltoncastle.co.uk
https://www.boltoncastle.co.uk/