Mary, Queen of Scots: the captive years
- S12E2
- 42:06
- February 4th 2026
The life of Mary, Queen of Scots has long fascinated historians and history-lovers alike. This week, Jackie sits down with studio guest Rosemary Goring to discuss the 19-year period of Mary’s life spent in captivity.
Together, they discuss the circumstances surrounding Mary’s imprisonment, the political reasons behind her enduring captivity, and the tragedy of this nearly two-decade-long period.
Rosemary Goring is the author of several books, including Exile: The Captive Years of Mary, Queen of Scots.
To enjoy more episodes of Love Scotland, please follow or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Scroll down this feed for previous instalments covering the life of Mary and her son, James VI.
Love Scotland
Love Scotland is a podcast series from the National Trust for Scotland.
From coastlines to castles, art to architecture, wildlife to wilderness, the National Trust for Scotland cares for and protects some of Scotland's most significant places and spaces, allowing them to be enjoyed today while protecting them for future generations.
Hosted by TV star and expert broadcaster Jackie Bird, and featuring experts and enthusiasts from all walks of life, each episode delves deep into the detail of Scotland’s history, its wildlife and its landscapes.
You can find out more about the National Trust for Scotland's work and how to support them at http://www.nts.org.uk.
Love Scotland is produced by Think, Big Light and Demus Productions on behalf of the National Trust for Scotland.
Meet the Host
Scottish journalist and broadcaster, Jackie Bird is familiar to many Scots at home and abroad from her time as a BBC Reporting Scotland news anchor. She has been the host of BBC Scotland’s Hogmanay Live, as well Scotland’s Children in Need coverage, as well as a wide range of documentaries.
Jackie is passionate about the stories behind Scotland’s history and heritage, and she shares the National Trust for Scotland’s drive to bring a love of Scotland to life.