Mary Queen of Scots' Visitor Centre

This museum is currently closed.

Set in the centre of historic Jedburgh, this 16th century towerhouse is a four star visitor attraction and tells the story of Scotland’s tragic queen. Mary’s month here in Jedburgh in 1566 was a turning point in her life. A fine display of paintings, objects and textiles associated with her explores not only her life and times, but the cult that has grown up around her.

The period feel inside the house has been preserved with thoughtful design, which allows the story of Mary’s life to be told in an engaging way. The Rogues Gallery introduces the individuals in the drama of Mary’s life, while the Last Letter Room reveals her final thoughts before her execution. Also find out about her ill-fated ride to Hermitage Castle to meet her adviser and future husband, the Earl of Bothwell, which resulted in her falling gravely ill. She would later lament ‘Would that I had died in Jedburgh.’

The house sits in attractive gardens, home to some of Jedburgh’s famous pear trees, descendants of the original pear trees planted around Jedburgh Abbey in the early 1800s.

View our Museum and Gallery guide to find out more about what’s going on across our museums. Looking for inspiration? Take a look at our tourism guide to make the most of your trip to the Borders. Plan your journey with Traveline Scotland.