Palace of Holyroodhouse

Located at the end of the Royal Mile is His Majesty King Charles the 3rds official Scottish residence - the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse.The palace is where Mary, the Queen of Scots, lived through her short although turbulent supremacy.

Visitor Information: Palace of Holyroodhouse

• Palace of Holyroodhouse

  Description

  Nestled at the end of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse stands as a testament to Scotland’s rich royal heritage. This majestic residence is not only the official Scottish residence of the Monarch but also a site of significant historical intrigue and beauty, drawing visitors from around the globe. Whether you’re a history buff, an admirer of architecture, or someone looking to immerse themselves in royal traditions, securing Palace of Holyroodhouse tickets is your gateway to a memorable experience. This article will guide you through planning your visit, highlighting what to expect and how to make the most of your time at this iconic palace.

  Securing Palace of Holyroodhouse Tickets

  To streamline your visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, it’s highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets are readily available online here at ExploreBritain.uk, offering a convenient way to plan your visit and avoid potential lines at the ticket office. Purchasing your Palace of Holyroodhouse tickets ahead of time not only ensures your entry but also provides the opportunity to explore special exhibitions and tours that may require separate tickets or pre-booking.

  The Palace and Its Historical Significance

  The Palace of Holyroodhouse, often simply called Holyrood Palace, has served as the principal residence of the Kings and Queens of Scots since the 16th century. It’s closely associated with Scotland’s turbulent history, including the reign of Mary, Queen of Scots, who lived there between 1561 and 1567. Visitors can explore her chambers, including the historic bedchamber and the site of the infamous murder of her secretary, David Rizzio.

  What to Explore at the Palace

  • The State Apartments: The sumptuously decorated State Apartments are used by the Queen for state ceremonies and official entertaining. These rooms display the finest in Scottish royal furnishings, including tapestries and portraits.
  • The Historic Apartments: Including Mary, Queen of Scots’ Chambers, these rooms offer a glimpse into the palace’s most dramatic historical moments.
  • The Abbey and Gardens: Don’t miss the ruins of the Holyrood Abbey adjacent to the palace and the beautiful palace gardens, which offer stunning views of Arthur’s Seat and are an excellent spot for a peaceful stroll.
  • The Queen’s Gallery: Hosting a programme of changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection, the Queen’s Gallery showcases a wide range of art and treasures.

  A visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a journey through Scotland’s royal history, offering a unique blend of architectural grandeur, historical drama, and natural beauty. By securing your Palace of Holyroodhouse tickets in advance, you’re ensuring a smooth and enriching experience at one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious landmarks. Whether exploring the State Apartments, wandering through the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, or marvelling at the latest exhibition in the Queen’s Gallery, your visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse will be an unforgettable highlight of your time in Scotland.

   

• Highlights

  Not to be missed when visiting

  Holyrood Abbey
  Fancy a visit to the romantic ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey with a guided tour and learn about its extraordinary history. Be escorted as well as get inspired by the Warden’s flamboyant dresses in their ancient Stewart tartan. Admire the only surviving part of David’s original ‘monastery of the Holy Rood’ processional doorway. You will see the royal vault at the Abbey, the final resting place of both Augustinian and royalty canons. On the west front is one of the impressive Gothic facades of the rebuilt Holyrood palace abbey church.

  State Apartments
  Tickets for the Palace of Holyroodhouse allow visitors to explore 14 magnificent state and historic apartments. Explore through the series of beautiful tapestries, renowned for their stunning plasterwork ceilings and exquisitely decorated rooms. Discover the stately rooms, and explore its most famed inhabitants, such as Mary, Queen of Scots, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. With your Holyrood palace tickets, learn about the ins and outs of the queen’s engagement in this royal residence.

  The Great Gallery
  Be sure to visit The Queen’s Gallery, the largest room in the palace decorated with over 100 paintings of diverse Scottish monarchs. Although today it’s mainly used for banquets, it had various uses in past years, such as a ballroom, a place where Scottish peers were elected, and even a chapel. It hosts a program of changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection. The Royal Collection features images from the vast photograph collection, decorative arts, rare furniture, and old master paintings.