Palace of Holyroodhouse
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official Scottish residence of the British monarch, perched at the foot of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Its state apartments, historic rooms, and the adjoining ruined abbey offer a tangible link to royal history and the dramatic life of Mary, Queen of Scots.
Why choose Palace of Holyroodhouse
When you walk its halls you sense the weight of centuries of Scottish and British politics, something the city’s museums can’t replicate. The blend of grand interiors and the stark abbey ruins creates a contrast that feels uniquely Edinburgh.
Best for: History lovers · Architecture · First-timers · Couples
Start your Holyrood morning here
Begin at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, then stroll the Royal Mile and finish at the National Museum of Scotland.
- Morning — Palace of Holyroodhouse
- 11:00 — Royal Mile
- Afternoon — National Museum of Scotland
Visit tips
- Arrive before 10 am for the shortest lines.
- Use the west‑side entrance for quicker access to the state apartments.
- Buy tickets online to avoid the main‑day queue; entry is £22.
- Allow 1.5–2 hours; visit early morning for quieter galleries.
Plan your visit
- Recommended duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Best time of day: Early morning, before 10:00
- Entry: £22
- Booking: required — Book tickets online to skip the main‑day queue
- Category: attraction
- Rated 4.5 by 12302 reviewers
- Tags: royal history, historic interiors, abbey ruins, family friendly
Nearby attractions
- National Museum of Scotland — attraction, 16 min walk
- Royal Mile — attraction, 13 min walk
- The Real Mary King's Close — attraction, 15 min walk
- Arthur's Seat — attraction, 14 min walk
- Edinburgh Old Town — neighborhood, 15 min walk
- The Chocolatarium — museum, 9 min walk
More things to do in Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle
- National Museum of Scotland
- Royal Mile
- The Real Mary King's Close
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- Arthur's Seat
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