Falkland Palace, located in Fife, Scotland, was originally a medieval hunting lodge before being transformed into a grand Renaissance residence by the Scottish crown in the 16th century. Built by James IV and expanded by James V, it became one of Scotland’s first Renaissance palaces, inspired by French architecture. The palace served as a royal retreat, where monarchs enjoyed hunting in the surrounding forests and engaging in courtly leisure. Mary, Queen of Scots, famously spent time there. Afte

In 1511 King James IV of Scotland launched the Great Michael, a massive warship that dwarfed every other vessel in Europe. This floating fortress measured 240 feet long with ten-foot thick oak walls and was nearly impenetrable to cannon fire. Wood for its construction was gathered from Fife, Norway, and France. With a crew of 300 sailors and 120 gunners and room for 1,000 soldiers, it was armed with many powerful cannons. Though it showcased Scotland's naval ambition, the ship was sold to France

Join us for a quick tour of the magnificent Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s greatest strongholds. For centuries, Stirling sat at the heart of the nation, once serving as the capital of Scotland and the key to controlling the north and south. The castle was home to kings and queens, including James IV and Mary, Queen of Scots, and saw battles that shaped the country’s history. #stirlingcastle #scottishhistory #scotland #castle #highlandertours #andythehighlander | Highlander Tours

In 1513, James IV of Scotland marched into England in an attempt to scare his brother-in-law, Henry VIII, out of France. Despite the odds weighing heavily in Scotland's favour, James led his men into a devastating defeat at the Battle of Flodden that also took his life. Waiting for James at Linlithgow Palace was his wife and Queen, Margaret Tudor, sister of Henry VIII. Legend has it that she waited in this tower, looking out for James' safe and victorious return. James would never return in life