Abbey and Palace of Holyroodhouse

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The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the Monarch of the United Kingdom in Scotland. Founded as a monastery by David I, King of Scots in 1128, it has served as the principal residence of the Kings and Queens of Scots since the 15th century. The Palace stands at the bottom of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, the opposite end to Edinburgh Castle. Queen Elizabeth II spends one week in residence at Holyrood at the beginning of each summer, to host garden parties and official ceremonies. She then continues to Balmoral Castle (which she owns) for her annual two-month summer holiday.

The ruined Augustinian Abbey that is sited in the grounds was built in 1126 at the order of King David I of Scotland. It has been the site of many royal coronations and marriage ceremonies. The roof of the abbey collapsed in the 18th century, leaving it as it currently stands, a ruin.

The Abbey was adapted as a Chapel for the Order of the Thistle by King James VII (and II of England), but was subsequently destroyed by a mob. In 1691 the then-new Kirk of the Canongate replaced the Abbey as the local parish church, where today the Queen attends services when in residence at the Palace.

During times when no members of the Royal Family are in residence, the Palace is open to the public.

Visitors enter the palace at the entrance to the Great Stair which features exquisite tapestries. Next on the tour is the Royal Dining Room with beautiful and rich place settings. The Throne Room was the site of the coronation of King George IV who was instrumental in preserving many of the rooms in the palace.

Most impressive are the State Apartments featuring the rooms (including her bed) and personal belongings of Mary Queen of Scots. There are separate rooms for her husband, Lord Darnley. Visitors are able to see a wide selection of antiques, paintings and tapestries. The rooms are decorated with rich paneling and ornate plaster detailing. The Royal Apartments which are currently used by the royal family are not open to the public.

Opening Hours:

The Palace is open daily from
1 April to 31 October - 09:30-18:00
1 November - 31 March - 09:30-16:30
24 December 09:30-14:00
31 December 09:00-15:00
The last admission is 60 minutes before closing.

The Palace is closed on 25 and 26 December and during Royal Visits.

Admission:

Palace of Holyroodhouse (includes an audio tour)

Adult £9.50
Over 60/Student (with valid ID) £8.50
Under 17 £5.50
Under 5 Free
Family (2 adults, 3 under 17s) £24.50

Joint Palace of Holyroodhouse and The Queen's Gallery

Adult £13.00
Over 60/Student (with valid ID) £11.50
Under 17 £7.50
Under 5 Free
Family (2 adults, 3 under 17s) £33.50