Life dealt Mary Queen of Scots love, intensity, betrayal and tragedy in generous measure. On the Trail of Mary Queen of Scots traces the major events in the turbulent life of the beautiful, enigmatic queen whose romantic reign and tragic destiny exerts an undimmed fascination. Here is the essential guide to over 200 Mary Queen of Scots sites of interest in Scotland, England and France. It is fully illustrated with maps and plans and clearly shows the best tour routes, region by region. Sites to visit in Scotland include: Linlithgow Palace - Mary's birthplace, now a magnificent ruin.; Stirling Castle - where, only nine months old, Mary was crowned Queen of Scotland; The Palace of Holyrood House - Rizzio, one of Mary's many lovers, was murdered here - some say his blood still stains the spot where he was stabbed to death; and Fotheringay - after 16 years' imprisonment, Mary met her death on the executioner's block.

There are many books about William Shakespeare but few written for the visitor which deal so thoroughly with his life, works and associated sites. Keith Cheetham, historian, dramatist and lifelong fan of the Bard, sets off in search of the places that shaped Shakespeare's life. From cottage to mighty castle, royal palace to battlefield, country village to vibrant metropolis, Keith investigates the locations that informed some of the greatest plays and poetry the world has ever known.