Party at the Palace – Linlithgow, Scotland 2026
Overview
Party at the Palace is an electrifying two-day music festival nestled by the historic Linlithgow Palace and its serene loch in Scotland, blending chart-topping acts with emerging talents in a picturesque outdoor setting. Launched in 2014 by Flock Entertainment, it has become a staple summer event, drawing music enthusiasts from across the UK and beyond for its mix of pop, rock, indie, and tribute performances on dual stages. The festival’s intimate scale—capped at around 10,000 attendees—ensures a personal experience, complete with food stalls, artisan markets, and interactive zones that celebrate Scottish culture.
In 2026, building on sold-out editions featuring icons like Squeeze and The Bootleg Beatles, expect an expanded lineup with international headliners, enhanced sustainability efforts like solar-powered stages, and family perks such as free kids’ entry. It’s not just concerts; it’s a weekend escape where history meets modern beats, offering photo ops with palace ruins, lochside chills, and a vibrant community atmosphere that’s accessible via quick trains from Edinburgh or Glasgow.
Event Highlights
- Main attractions: Dual stages host non-stop live music from global stars and Scottish favorites, with past highlights like Tom Meighan and Scouting for Girls setting the tone for 2026’s eclectic pop-rock vibe.
- Main activities or performances: Full-day sets include opening acoustic sessions, midday DJ battles, evening headliners, and late-night silent discos; family entertainment features puppet shows and dance workshops.
- Special traditions or features: Annual fireworks over the loch, eco-initiatives like reusable cup systems, and picnic-friendly policies that encourage blanket-spreading for communal sing-alongs.
- Unique attractions for visitors: Stunning views of 15th-century palace ruins, wellness areas with yoga by the water, and pop-up art installations inspired by Scottish folklore.
About This Event
- Historical roots: Founded in 2014 as a local celebration, it pays homage to Scotland’s musical legacy while spotlighting contemporary acts, growing from 5,000 to 10,000+ attendees.
- Scale and impact: Boosts West Lothian’s tourism with £1M+ economic injection annually; supports charities via on-site donations and promotes mental health awareness through quiet zones.
- Family focus: Under-18s policies, free entry for under-10s, and dedicated kids’ areas with crafts and games make it a multigenerational hit.
- Environmental commitment: Zero-to-landfill goal with composting stations, carbon-neutral transport partnerships, and bans on single-use plastics.
- Community ties: Run by Edinburgh-based Flock Entertainment, it collaborates with local breweries and farms for authentic Scottish flavors in vendors.
- Evolution over years: From humble beginnings to award-winner (Best Small Festival nominee), 2026 introduces glamping villages and VR stage previews for tech-savvy fans.
- Safety and inclusivity: Comprehensive accessibility with wheelchair paths, BSL interpreters at main sets, and on-site medical teams.
Why Attend
Dive into Party at the Palace 2026 for a seamless blend of world-class music and Scotland’s breathtaking scenery, where the loch’s calm contrasts with pulsating stages. It’s ideal for creating bonds—sing along with friends to timeless hits or introduce kids to live gigs in a safe, welcoming space. The festival’s thoughtful layout, from shaded picnic spots to efficient bars, minimizes waits so you maximize fun, all while supporting green practices that leave you feeling good about your footprint.
This event shines for its authenticity: no corporate overload, just pure joy in a historic locale that’s easy to reach yet feels worlds away. Whether chasing nostalgia with tribute acts or discovering new sounds, attendees leave recharged, with stories of sunset performances and friendly crowds that embody Scottish warmth.
Date & Duration
Dates: August 8 – August 9, 2026
Duration: 2 days
Venue / Location
Bonnytoun Farm, Linlithgow, West Lothian, Scotland (main stages overlook Linlithgow Loch and Palace; additional areas include camping fields, family zone, food village, and accessibility paths).
Google Maps address: Bonnytoun Farm, Linlithgow EH49 7LP, UK.
Ticket Information
- Tickets are sold online primarily through partyatthepalace.co.uk and partners like Skiddle; on-site sales limited if available; car park and camping as add-ons.
- Admission is paid; no free general entry, though carers get complimentary companion tickets via application.
- Ticket pricing in USD: Minimum $13 (child day pass) to maximum $195 (VIP weekend with camping); standard weekend $104–$169.
- Special seating or VIP options: Premium platforms with elevated views ($26 extra), VIP lounges with private bars ($65–$130 add-on), and glamping packages.
- Transferable tickets allowed; no refunds but resell via official channels; early bird deals save up to 20%.
- All prices include booking fees; group discounts for 10+; under-5s free but need tickets.
- Overall ticket price range: $13 (minimum) – $195 (maximum).
Booking with Euro Travelo
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Contact Information
- Email: info@partyatthepalace.co.uk (general inquiries, tickets, disability support, and feedback).
- Phone: Not specified; prefer email for quick responses.
- Website: https://partyatthepalace.co.uk (tickets, lineup updates, terms, and carer applications).
- Social Media: @partyatthepalacelinlithgow (Facebook), @partyatthepalace (Instagram for photos and stories).
- Key Staff: Managed by Flock Entertainment Limited team; specific contacts via email.
- Press/Volunteers: press@partyatthepalace.co.uk (media kits TBD); volunteers apply online form (opportunities announced spring 2026).
- Note: Response time ~24–48 hours. English primary; postal address: 27 Lauriston Street, Edinburgh EH3 9DQ.
Getting There
- Nearest airports: Edinburgh Airport (EDI, 15 miles/20-min drive with taxis ~$39 USD); Glasgow Airport (GLA, 35 miles/45-min drive).
- Public transport – rail: Linlithgow Station (ScotRail) 10-min walk to site; trains from Edinburgh (20 min, $6 USD) or Glasgow (40 min) every 15 min.
- Public transport – bus: Direct shuttles from Edinburgh St Andrew Square via Happybus ($13 round-trip); local First Bus routes stop nearby.
- By car: M9 Junction 3; on-site parking $16–$26 USD (pre-book essential); EV charging available.
- Drop-off/pick-up: Dedicated zones at entrance; no overnight parking for non-campers.
- Taxis and rideshares: Uber or local firms like Central Taxis; book in advance for post-event surges.
- Eco options: Bike racks on-site; cycle from station via loch paths.
Accommodation Options
- On-site camping: Tent pitches $39–$65 USD per person; facilities include hot showers, phone charging, and 24/7 security.
- Glamping upgrades: Bell tents or pods $130–$195 USD with beds and lighting; book bundled with tickets.
- Hotels nearby: Chain options like Premier Inn Falkirk (10 min drive, $91–$130/night); boutique stays at Champany Inn ($156+/night).
- B&Bs and guesthouses: Linlithgow spots like Court Residence ($117–$169/night, breakfast included); family rooms available.
- Hostels/Airbnbs: Budget digs in town $65–$91/night; Edinburgh Airbnbs for groups (20 min train).
- Luxury retreats: Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh (25 min away, $260+/night with spa).
- Tips: Festival packages via VisitWestLothian.com include shuttles; sold out fast, so reserve 6 months ahead.
Reviews
- Epic lochside vibes with killer sets—camping made it a full adventure, crowds were super friendly.
- Family heaven: kids loved the activities, music was spot-on, and easy train access sealed the deal.
- Worth every penny—stunning palace views during headliners, food variety on point, though pack rain gear for Scotland!
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
Is there a campsite?
Yes, the festival features a dedicated on-site campsite at Bonnytoun Farm, accommodating tents, campervans (limited spots), and live-in vehicles with electric hookups available for extra fees. Pitches are allocated on arrival, supporting up to 6 per group, and include modern amenities like flush toilets, warm showers, waste disposal, and a camping shop for essentials. Security is round-the-clock with wristband checks, and quiet hours enforce from 1 AM to keep it family-friendly. No open fires allowed, but BBQs on stands are okay; eco-policies encourage reusable gear. Book camping passes simultaneously with tickets online—prices start at $39 USD and sell out by June. It's a highlight for many, offering sunrise loch views and easy stage access.
Where is Party at the Palace?
Located at Bonnytoun Farm in Linlithgow, West Lothian (EH49 7LP), directly opposite the majestic Linlithgow Palace across the loch, providing a natural, scenic arena for stages and crowds. This rural spot, 18 miles west of Edinburgh, was selected for its flat terrain ideal for accessibility and its historical ties—Mary Queen of Scots was born at the palace nearby. The site layout includes main music areas, a village green for vendors, and wooded edges for shade. Proximity to town means quick walks to pubs or shops if needed. Use sat-nav for entry gates; signage from M9 ensures no misses. It's praised for blending nature, history, and music seamlessly.
Is Party at the Palace suitable for families?
Definitely—it's one of Scotland's most family-oriented festivals, with under-10s entering free (ticket required) and a supervised kids' zone offering free games, crafts, bouncy castles, and educational palace history tours. Noise levels are managed with ear defenders available, and changing facilities plus baby food warming stations cater to parents. Re-entry isn't allowed, but picnic areas let you settle in for the day comfortably. Accessibility includes buggy-friendly paths and carer comps. No alcohol in family zones, promoting a wholesome vibe. Thousands of families attend yearly, enjoying balanced programming from mellow afternoon acts to evening fun.
Are picnics allowed?
Picnics are fully permitted and encouraged, allowing you to bring homemade food, non-alcoholic drinks in plastic containers, and blankets for lochside lounging during sets—no glass or sharp items for safety. This policy keeps costs down and adds to the relaxed, communal atmosphere, with designated picnic fields away from stages if you prefer quiet. On-site options supplement with diverse vendors (Scottish street food to international cuisines, $6–$13 USD per item). Sealable coolers up to 20L are fine; alcohol must be purchased inside (over-18s only). Recycling bins and water refill stations support sustainability. Pro tip: Check weather apps and pack waterproofs—Scotland's rain can surprise, but it adds to the charm.
What time does the party kick off at?
Gates swing open at 11 AM daily, with music kicking off around noon on side stages and main acts from 1 PM, building to headliners at 7-10:30 PM with fireworks finale. Full timetables release in July via app and website, including set times, workshops, and food truck hours. No strict curfew beyond noise rules for locals, but last entry at 5 PM to manage crowds. Bars and stalls operate till close, with cashless payments speeding things up. Arrive early for merch or prime spots—queues peak midday. It's structured for all-day energy, with chill breaks in shaded areas if needed.
