Palace of Holyroodhouse: Tickets
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Palace of Holyroodhouse: Tickets

Book tickets to visit the Royal residence in Edinburgh.

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Visit The King's official residence in Scotland

  • Entry to the Palace, the State Apartments, and Mary, Queen of Scots' historic chambers
  • Access to the ruins of Holyrood Abbey
  • Free multimedia guide, available in multiple languages
  • Access to the Palace's public garden
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Royal Palace

Palace of Holyroodhouse Tickets - Prices and Visitor Information

What is the Palace of Holyroodhouse?

  • The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the King's official residence in Scotland and one of Edinburgh's most important historic landmarks.
  • Sitting at the end of the Royal Mile, the palace has been home to Scottish royalty for centuries and remains an active royal residence today.
  • You can explore the State Apartments, the historic chambers of Mary, Queen of Scots, and the picturesque ruins of Holyrood Abbey on your visit.

Quick Information

  • Address: Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate, Edinburgh, EH8 8DX
  • Opening Hours: Daily: 09:30 - 18:00 (last entry at 16:30)
  • Recommended Visit Duration: 60-90 minutes
  • Best For: Families, royal enthusiasts, history fans and visitors to Edinburgh.
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Is the Palace of Holyroodhouse Worth Visiting?

  • Yes. Especially if you are interested in British history, the Royal Family or historic architecture.
  • The Palace of Holyroodhouse offers a look into Scotland's royal past, with beautifully furnished State Apartments, the chambers of Mary, Queen of Scots and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey all included in your visit.
  • The palace is at the end of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, so it's easy to combine with Edinburgh Castle as well.

What You Can See At The Palace of Holyroodhouse

  • The Palace, State Apartments, Throne Room & Great Gallery
  • Mary Queen of Scots' historic chambers
  • Ruins of Holyrood Abbey
  • Palace’s Public Garden

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About The Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of His Majesty the King in Scotland. Located at the foot of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, it is still used today for state ceremonies, official engagements and other royal occasions.

It has a long history spanning many centuries. The site began as Holyrood Abbey, an Augustinian monastery founded in 1128. The palace was later developed beside the abbey and became a royal residence during the reign of James IV in the early 16th century.

The palace has been expanded and remodelled several times over the centuries by successive monarchs. One of its best-known residents was Mary, Queen of Scots, who lived here for much of her reign during the 16th century.

The palace has witnessed several dramatic moments in Scottish history, including the murder of David Rizzio, Mary, Queen of Scots' private secretary, in 1566. Bonnie Prince Charlie also held lavish receptions here during the Jacobite Rising of 1745.

The gardens sit against the backdrop of Arthur's Seat (the volcanic peak, which some say gets its name from King Arthur of Camelot). You can wander through the newly established Physic Garden on Abbey Strand, which has a wide variety of medicinal and culinary plants that were inspired by the site's ancient garden legacy.

After your visit, you can stop at the Palace Café for light meals, homemade cakes, refreshments or traditional afternoon tea.

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Palace of Holyroodhouse FAQs

  • Do you need to book tickets online to visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse?
  • Yes, we recommend booking tickets online as it can save time.
  • Will we see any of the Royal family on a visit to The Palace of Holyroodhouse?
  • No, unfortunately not! The visitors are only given access to certain areas of the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
  • Do you need to book tickets in advance to visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse?
  • We always suggest booking tickets in advance if you know when you plan to visit.
  • Is the Palace of Holyroodhouse wheelchair accessible?
  • Yes, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is wheelchair accessible. Mobility scooters are also allowed.
  • How long does it take to visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse?
  • It takes around 60-90 minutes to explore.
  • What is the Palace of Holyroodhouse?
    The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. It has been a royal residence for over 500 years.
  • Where is the Palace of Holyroodhouse?
  • It’s at the end of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, at the foot of Arthur’s Seat.
  • Is the Palace of Holyroodhouse open to the public?
  • Yes, the palace is open year-round, except when it is being used for official royal events.
  • Can you see the inside of the Palace of Holyroodhouse?
  • Yes, you can explore the State Apartments, the Throne Room, the Great Gallery, and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey.
  • What is Holyrood Abbey?
  • It's a ruined 12th-century abbey next to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, founded by King David I in 1128.

The Palace of Holyroodhouse Fun Facts

  • Holyrood Name: The name “Holyrood” comes from the Scots word for “Holy Cross.”
  • Origins: The palace was originally an Augustinian monastery that was founded in 1128.
  • Rooms: The palace has 289 rooms!
  • Royal Home: It has been the home of many Scottish kings and queens, including James IV and Mary, Queen of Scots.
  • Thrones: The Throne Room still features thrones made for King George V and Queen Mary in 1911.
  • Bonnie Prince Charlie: Bonnie Prince Charlie held court at Holyroodhouse during the Jacobite rising of 1745.
  • Secret Passage: A secret passage is said to lead from the palace to the nearby abbey!
  • Art: The palace’s Great Gallery displays over 90 portraits of legendary Scottish kings and many of whom may never have existed!

Useful Information About Palace of Holyroodhouse

Tips for Visiting The Palace of Holyroodhouse

  • Book Tickets Online: Its an easy and convenient way to secure your tickets and can also save you time as queues do form at the ticket office.
  • Combination Tickets: See our range of combination tickets for Palace of Holyroodhouse. Click HERE to see options.
  • Best Time to Visit: Just after opening time or an hour before closing time can be slightly quieter times but you will never have the place to yourself.

How to get there

  • Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate, EH8 8DX, Edinburgh

Palace of Holyroodhouse Opening Hours

  • Monday: 09:30 - 18:00
  • Tuesday: 09:30 - 18:00
  • Wednesday: 09:30 - 18:00
  • Thursday: 09:30 - 18:00
  • Friday: 09:30 - 18:00
  • Saturday: 09:30 - 18:00
  • Sunday: 09:30 - 18:00

Why book with us?
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