Palace of Holyroodhouse
The official Scottish residence of the British monarch. Mary, Queen of Scots lived here, and behind the palace are romantic abbey ruins.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse sits at the eastern end of the Royal Mile. Construction began in the early 16th century, extending the Holyrood Abbey founded in 1128. It is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. The route includes the State Apartments remodelled during the reign of Charles II, the Great Gallery hung with 89 portraits of Scottish monarchs, and the most popular attraction, the bedchamber of Mary, Queen of Scots. In 1566, her secretary David Rizzio was murdered in the small room next door. After the visit, you can stroll to the Gothic abbey ruins on the north side of the palace, where only broken walls remain. The high doorway and the play of light and shadow are excellent. Entry costs about GBP 21, which includes a Chinese audio guide. If you have your ticket stamped on the day, you can revisit for free within a year. The King's Gallery opposite requires a separate ticket. The palace closes when members of the royal family are in residence, usually from late June to early July, so check the official website before you go. Behind the palace is Holyrood Park, which can be combined with a hike up Arthur's Seat.
Opening hours
Apr–Oct 09:30–18:00; Nov–Mar 09:30–16:30; some areas closed Tue and Wed in winter (check official website)
Nearby sights
- Scottish Parliament Building
- Our Dynamic Earth
- Calton Hill
- Arthur's Seat
- Royal Mile
- The Real Mary King's Close
- National Museum of Scotland
- St Giles' Cathedral