Mary, Queen of Scots by François Clouet. © Royal Collection Enterprises Limited 2026 | Royal Collection Trust

Running from 12 June to 14 November 2027, Fellows of the Society will benefit from free entry to Mary, Queen of Scots: Renaissance and Resistance at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, an exhibition which will challenge perceptions of one of Scotland’s most renowned monarchs.

For centuries, Mary’s reputation has been shaped by the events that led to her forced abdication in 1567. Depicted by a group of rebellious nobles as a guilty, unstable adulteress, her story has often been characterised by her downfall. This exhibition will re-examine those narratives. Mary will be presented as a Scottish Renaissance queen fiercely resisting those who tried to silence her.

Visitors will encounter objects and stories that bring the vibrancy of 16th-century Scotland to life. This will include 100 loans from across the UK and Europe, some never seen before in Scotland. Visitors will also rediscover some of the National Collection’s most iconic objects, from a spectacular silver casket to magnificent jewels.

Dr Simon Gilmour FSAScot, Director of the Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, said:

‘We are grateful to National Museums Scotland for helping us celebrate our shared history by bringing this opportunity to our Fellows, in addition to free entry to Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire which runs from 14 November 2026 to 18 April 2027. Our Fellows are passionate about Scotland’s past and this major new exhibition on Mary, Queen of Scots is sure to be a highlight for many.’

Fellows will receive information on how to access their free tickets in their Fellows e-newsletters, noticeboard and spring 2027 newsletter.

If you would like to support our work as a charity and enjoy the range of benefits of Fellowship, subscribe to our public e-newsletter to learn more or visit our webpages to find out how to join. Anyone who is passionate about Scotland’s past is welcome to apply.

The next application closing date is 28 February 2027, with successful new applicants who have paid their subscription fees gaining free and unlimited access to the exhibition from its opening date by using the code.