You can tell the final countdown to the palace’s grand opening is definitely on.  There’s a noticeable buzz in the air at the castle as the last finishing touches are put in place, and this week a series of evening events to celebrate the launch got underway.

On Tuesday all the teams and individuals who’ve worked so hard to make the entire project possible were invited along to a reception. It was an opportunity to thank everyone for their contribution, and to give them an opportunity to view the final result in advance of the public launch.  Among the 200-odd guests were staff from throughout Historic Scotland, including archaeologists, historians, stonemasons and craftspeople, as well as many skilled contractors, such as painters, carvers, tapestry weavers and embroiderers - all of whom have played such an important part in recreating the grandeur of Stirling’s Renaissance palace.

As the huge amount of work involved in refurbishing the royal apartments has come together, many of the guests had enjoyed tantalising glimpses of what was to come at various stages, but this was their first viewing of what will the public will see when the palace is finally opened.

Even although I’ve been lucky enough to have watched the palace evolving through each phase of the project, I was completely awestruck walking around the royal apartments on Tuesday. The richness and intricacy of the decoration is absolutely splendid; the palace really is a wonderful sight to behold.

As we prepare to welcome the public on 4th and 5th June, the final preparations continue. Right up until then, everyone will be making sure that every detail is ready for a spectacular celebration featuring a wealth of entertainments direct from the 16th century royal Stewart court.


It’s now just over a week until Mary of Guise’s arrival in her royal procession to kick off the weekend of festivities. So if you haven’t yet ordered your tickets, do make sure you book now to avoid disappointment.


Lesley Brown, Historic Scotland Communications