Palace of Holyroodhouse | Everything You Need to Know

Welcome to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, standing proudly at the eastern end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Founded as a monastery in 1128 by King David I, this historic palace has been a royal residence since the 16th century, hosting figures like Mary, Queen of Scots, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Today, it serves as a venue for state ceremonies and official entertaining by His Majesty The King, while welcoming visitors to explore its magnificent State Apartments, historic chambers, the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, and lush royal gardens.

With complimentary multimedia tours in 10 languages and a rich collection of art in the King’s Gallery, the palace offers an immersive journey into Scotland’s royal heritage, perfect for history buffs, families, and travelers seeking cultural treasures.

Location

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at Canongate, Edinburgh, EH8 8DX, United Kingdom, at the eastern end of the Royal Mile, opposite Edinburgh Castle. Nestled against the dramatic backdrop of Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park, it’s surrounded by landmarks like the Scottish Parliament Building and the Royal Mile’s historic closes. For precise navigation, use GPS or map apps like Google Maps.

Opening Hours

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is open throughout the year, except when closed for royal events:

• April to October: 9:30 AM–6:00 PM (last admission 4:30 PM)
• November to March: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM (last admission 3:15 PM)

The palace is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except from 24 May to 7 September, when it is open 7 days a week. As a working royal palace, opening arrangements may change at short notice for state functions. Always check the Royal Collection Trust for the latest schedule and any closures.

How to Get There

The palace’s central location in Edinburgh makes it easily accessible:

• Train: Waverley Station, a 10-minute walk away, offers direct connections from London (4.5–5.5 hours), Glasgow (1 hour), and other UK cities. Check National Rail for schedules.
• Bus: Lothian Buses routes 35, 36, and 60 stop near the palace at Canongate or Holyrood. Visit Lothian Buses for timetables.
• Tram: Edinburgh Trams from Edinburgh Airport to St Andrew Square (30 minutes, ~£6.50) are a 10-minute walk from the palace.
• Car: No parking is available at the palace, but accessible spaces are on Horse Wynd (first-come, first-served). Nearby pay-and-display car parks include Holyrood Road and St. Mary’s Street. Edinburgh’s Low Emission Zone may incur charges for higher-emission vehicles; check edinburgh.gov.uk. Public transport is recommended.
• Walking: From Edinburgh Castle, walk 20–30 minutes along the Royal Mile for a scenic route past historic sites.
• Cycling: Bike hire is available via Just Eat Cycles, with stations near the Royal Mile.

Use apps like Citymapper for real-time travel updates.

Best Time to Visit

For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays or early mornings (9:30 AM), as weekends and summer months (June–August) attract crowds, especially during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer milder weather and fewer tourists, ideal for exploring the gardens. Winter (December–February) brings festive charm with nearby Christmas markets, but shorter hours. Evening visits in summer (until 6:00 PM) provide beautiful light and smaller crowds. Check the weather, as Edinburgh’s climate can be rainy, and outdoor areas like the gardens are exposed. For special events, such as exclusive evening tours (30 May–22 June 2025), visit the Royal Collection Trust events page.

Tickets and Costs

Entry requires a pre-booked ticket, available via the Royal Collection Trust. Prices (as of 2025) are:

Ticket Type	Price	Notes
Adult	£18.50	Includes multimedia guide
Child (5–17)	£9.50	Free for under 5s
Concession (students, seniors)	£16.50	Proof required
Family (2 adults + 3 children)	£46.50	–
Exclusive Evening Tour	£55.00	30 May–22 June 2025, includes guidebook

• Discounts: Concession tickets are available only through Royal Collection Trust (+44 (0)303 123 7324 or specialistsales@rct.uk). The Royal Edinburgh Pass includes palace admission.
• Booking: Purchase tickets online to secure your slot and avoid queues, especially in summer. Tickets are valid for one visit.
• Tours: Complimentary multimedia guides in 10 languages are included. Guided warder tours are available for an additional fee.

What to Expect

A visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse offers a rich exploration of Scottish royal history:

• State Apartments: Admire grand rooms with Baroque plasterwork ceilings and French and Flemish tapestries, used for state ceremonies and royal entertaining.
• Mary, Queen of Scots’ Apartments: Explore the 16th-century chambers, including the room where David Rizzio was murdered in 1566.
• Holyrood Abbey: Wander the atmospheric ruins of the 12th-century Augustinian abbey, founded by King David I.
• Royal Gardens: Stroll through beautifully landscaped grounds, historically used for jousting and now hosting royal garden parties.
• The King’s Gallery: View rotating exhibitions of art from the Royal Collection (separate ticket may be required).
• Great Gallery: See 110 portraits of Scottish monarchs, reflecting centuries of royal lineage.

A typical visit lasts 1–2 hours, with multimedia guides enhancing the experience. Facilities include:

• Restrooms: Accessible and standard options available.
• Café: The on-site café offers light refreshments.
• Shop: Sells souvenirs, guidebooks, and royal-themed gifts.
• Events: Exclusive evening tours (30 May–22 June 2025) offer a private experience of the State Apartments.

Safety and Accessibility

• Safety: Airport-style security checks, including bag searches, are conducted upon entry. Large bags (over 45cm × 20cm × 30cm) are not permitted; luggage storage is available at Waverley Station. Only guide, hearing, or assistance animals are allowed.
• Accessibility: The palace is largely wheelchair-accessible, with ramps, lifts, and free wheelchairs available. Accessible toilets are provided, and audio guides, Braille plans, and hearing loops cater to visually and hearing-impaired visitors. The tower is not accessible due to its spiral staircase. Contact specialistsales@rct.uk or +44 (0)303 123 7324 for specific needs. Detailed access guides are on AccessAble.
• Family-Friendly: Strollers are permitted, and children under 5 enter free. Family-friendly tours and activities are available, making it engaging for kids.

History and Background

The Palace of Holyroodhouse traces its origins to 1128, when King David I founded Holyrood Abbey, inspired by a vision of a stag with a glowing cross. By the 15th century, the abbey’s guesthouse became a royal residence, preferred over Edinburgh Castle for its comfort. James IV built the first palace in 1503, and James V added a tower in the 1530s, where Mary, Queen of Scots resided from 1561 to 1567, witnessing dramatic events like the murder of her secretary, David Rizzio.

The current Baroque palace, built between 1671 and 1678 for Charles II, reflects the grandeur of the restored monarchy. It has hosted figures like Bonnie Prince Charlie during the 1745 Jacobite Rising and serves as a family home for royals like Queen Victoria. Today, it remains a working palace, hosting Holyrood Week and state ceremonies.

Fun Facts:

• The palace’s name, “Holyrood,” means “Holy Cross,” from its abbey origins.
• Mary, Queen of Scots, witnessed the murder of David Rizzio in her chambers in 1566.
• The Great Gallery’s 110 portraits depict Scotland’s monarchs, from mythical to historical.
• The gardens once housed lions and served as a sanctuary for debtors.

Nearby Attractions

The palace’s location at the end of the Royal Mile offers easy access to other Edinburgh landmarks:

• Edinburgh Castle (20-minute walk): A historic fortress with the Scottish Crown Jewels, at the opposite end of the Royal Mile.
• Royal Mile (along the route): A vibrant street with shops, cafes, and historic closes like Real Mary King’s Close.
• Arthur’s Seat (10-minute walk): A hill in Holyrood Park offering stunning city views.
• Scottish Parliament Building (adjacent): A modern architectural landmark, open for free tours.

For a full day, start at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, explore the Royal Mile, and visit Edinburgh Castle, all within a 2–3 km radius.

Practical Tips

• Book in Advance: Secure tickets online via Royal Collection Trust to avoid queues.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The palace and surrounding Royal Mile involve extensive walking.
• Check Weather: Bring a raincoat or umbrella, as Edinburgh’s weather is unpredictable.
• Photography: Allowed for personal use, but flash photography and tripods are prohibited in some areas.
• Respect Rules: Follow the one-way visitor route and avoid bringing large bags to expedite security checks.
• Explore Gardens: Allow time to enjoy the royal gardens, especially in spring or summer.

FAQs

What are the opening hours of the Palace of Holyroodhouse?

April to October: 9:30 AM–6:00 PM (last admission 4:30 PM); November to March: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM (last admission 3:15 PM). Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except 24 May–7 September. Check Royal Collection Trust for updates.

How much does it cost to visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse?

Adult: £18.50; Child (5–17): £9.50; Concession: £16.50; Family (2 adults + 3 children): £46.50. Exclusive evening tours cost £55.

Is the Palace of Holyroodhouse suitable for children?

Yes, with free entry for under 5s, stroller access, and family-friendly tours. The multimedia guide includes child-friendly content.

Are there any discounts available for the Palace of Holyroodhouse?

Concession tickets for students and seniors are available via Royal Collection Trust (+44 (0)303 123 7324). The Royal Edinburgh Pass includes admission.

How long does it take to visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse?

A typical visit lasts 1–2 hours, including the multimedia guide tour.

Is photography allowed at the Palace of Holyroodhouse?

Yes, for personal use, but flash photography and tripods are prohibited in some areas.

Are there guided tours available at the Palace of Holyroodhouse?

Complimentary multimedia guides are included with admission. Guided warder tours are available for an additional fee.

What’s the best way to get to the Palace of Holyroodhouse from the city center?

Walk 20–30 minutes along the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle, or take Lothian Buses (routes 35, 36, 60) to Canongate.

Is the Palace of Holyroodhouse wheelchair accessible?

Yes, with ramps, lifts, and free wheelchairs. The tower is not accessible. Contact specialistsales@rct.uk for details.

Are there dining options near the Palace of Holyroodhouse?

An on-site café offers light refreshments. Nearby Royal Mile cafes and restaurants provide additional options.