Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh

Overview

The Palace has been a royal residence for over 500 years and is closely associated with Scotland's rich history. A visit to the Palace includes the Historic Apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots, which were the setting for many dramatic episodes in her short and turbulent reign, including the brutal murder of her Italian secretary, David Rizzio, by her husband, Lord Darnley. Her Bedchamber has been described as 'the most famous room in Scotland'.

In the Palace's State Apartments, visitors can see the magnificent Great Gallery, where Bonnie Prince Charlie held lavish balls when he set up his Jacobite Court at the Palace in September 1745. The State Apartments today reflect the changing tastes of successive monarchs, and are
renowned for their fine plasterwork ceilings and unrivalled collection of Brussels tapestries. They are furnished with numerous works of art from the Royal Collection, many of which have long associations with Holyroodhouse and Scotland.

A visit to the Palace includes the opportunity to explore unique gardens, which are set against the spectacular backdrop of Arthur's Seat. A newly created physic garden situated on the Abbey Strand contains a colourful array of medicinal and culinary plants inspired by some of the earliest recorded gardens on the site. At the Café at the Palace, visitors can enjoy homemade dishes made from locally sourced produce, from light refreshments and lunch to afternoon tea.




Opening Hours

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except during July to September when it is open 7 days a week.

October: Thursday to Monday, 09:30-18:00 (last admission 16:30)
November to March: Thursday to Monday, 09:30-16:30 (last admission 15:15)

Palace closures
26 December 2024

As the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a working royal palace, sometimes additional closures can happen at short notice.​ Please check before visiting.




Images: Royal Collection Trust / © HM King Charles III 2024