PALACE OF HOLYROODHOUSE

The Palace of Holyrood is a historic place that is currently used as a State Apartment by the Queen of England for royal ceremonies and engagements. The palace is famous for its royal connections and beautiful architecture complimented by beautifully trimmed gardens. Hear all about the life story of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 10 different languages through guided tours.

Holyrood Palace is located at the end of Edinburgh's famed Royal Mile, close to several major landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle. The palace is currently considered the official residence of the Queen of England in Scotland, where various official functions take place.

The palace is planned around a three-story core with an attic quadrangle in classical style. Visitors can take a free multilingual tour which includes 14 historic chambers and State Apartments, the 12th-century romantic relics of Holyrood Abbey, and exquisite royal gardens. A spectacular collection of French and Dutch tapestries is on display in these chambers in Holyrood Palace. The Throne Room is home to two thrones that King George V acquired in 1911.

A short, spiraling stairway in the northwest tower leads to Mary, Queen of Scotland’s, rooms in the palace's oldest wing. The bed chamber in these rooms still has the original oak ceiling from when Elizabeth slept there between 1561 and 1567. These chambers are famous for dramatic tales of crime. In the Supper Room, the queen allegedly witnessed the death of her private secretary. Explore the Palace's strong ties with some of Scotland's illustrious history and personalities, such as Mary, Queen of Scots, on your next trip to Edinburgh.

Highlights

• A royal palace was used as a State Apartment by the Queen of England to perform various official ceremonies.
• Admire the contemporary architecture of the Palace of Holyrood and see the detailed work done on the arches of the building.
• Stroll around the well-groomed gardens of the palace which are filled with lush green grass and local plants.
• Discover the 14 historic chambers and the State Apartment built around the 12th-century romantic relics of Holyrood Abbey.
• This palace is now known as the official residence of the Queen in Scotland, which makes it a must-visit place.
• Explore the life story of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 10 different languages in a well-planned tour of the palace.