After our visit to Edinburgh Castle, we spontaneously decided to discover what it’s like inside Holyrood Palace. Since it was March and therefore the low season, we were able to purchase tickets directly at the ticket office. However, if you plan to visit the palace, I recommend booking your tickets online in advance to be on the safe side*.
The palace is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. When King Charles is in Edinburgh, he stays here. The palace is also regularly used for state ceremonies and official receptions. Moreover, it is well known for the dramatic events in the life of Mary, Queen of Scots. The highlights of the visit include the magnificent interior rooms and the impressive ruins of Holyrood Abbey.
Contents: Inside Holyrood Palace
Holyrood Palace Tickets: Prices, Booking, and What You Need to Know
There are two ways to purchase tickets for the Palace of Holyroodhouse: either directly at the ticket counter on-site or by making a booking online in advance*. We were lucky enough to get tickets on-site, but we recommend booking your tickets online to be on the safe side.
You can book your ticket here*.
Information about Online Tickets:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start with a full refund.
- An audio guide in German is included.
Inside Holyrood Palace: State Rooms and Historical Highlights
Holyrood Palace is barely visible from the street because the King’s Gallery, the shop, and a courtyard are located in front of it. We had to walk across this courtyard to reach the next gate. Only then did we stand in front of the palace, where a larger square with a stone crown in the center awaits visitors.
From here, you can enter the palace directly. First, you step into an open walkway that runs around the courtyard. The courtyard itself is quite impressive, featuring a vibrant green lawn and a lantern in the middle. From there, you head upstairs to explore the state rooms. Unfortunately, photography and filming are not allowed inside these rooms.
The Historical Interiors
During the tour of the interiors, it quickly becomes clear that some rooms are still used for official ceremonies to this day. When the royal family is not staying at the palace, visitors have the chance to explore these rooms. This includes the historic royal apartments in the northwest tower, dating back to the 16th century, and the current state apartments from the 17th century.
The king’s historic apartments on the first floor consist of the audience chamber, the bedroom, and several smaller cabinets. They are furnished with Baroque furniture and Flemish tapestries. A spiral staircase connects the king’s bedroom with the queen’s bedroom, which features an original coffered ceiling.
The State Apartments
Situated on the first floor, the state apartments can be reached via a grand staircase. Visitors will find the dining room, throne room, evening drawing room, and morning drawing room, all lavishly decorated and reserved for official occasions. Featuring 111 portraits of Scottish monarchs, the Great Gallery frequently hosts banquets and formal events.
We left truly impressed by the interiors and found it surprising that Holyrood Palace is far less known than the famous Edinburgh Castle.
Holyrood Abbey: Ruins and Historical Significance
Another highlight and historically significant area is Holyrood Abbey, located at the back of the grounds. This impressive ruin was originally founded in the 12th century and played an important role in Scottish history. Although it stands as a ruin today, the remains of the Gothic architecture and the picturesque atmosphere are truly captivating.
Photography and filming are allowed here again, so you can capture the beauty and historical charm of the abbey.
Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat: Nature Experiences and Stunning Views
A visit to Holyrood Palace can be wonderfully combined with an excursion to the adjacent Holyrood Park. This expansive park offers numerous hiking trails and leads up to the famous Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano. The climb rewards you with breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding landscape.
The park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers who want to enjoy the peace and beauty of the natural surroundings.
Practical Tips for Your Visit to Holyrood Palace
- Book tickets in advance: Purchase your tickets online in advance* to ensure entry at your preferred time and avoid queues, especially during high season.
- Best visiting times: Plan your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.
- Photography: Photography and filming are not allowed inside the palace, but you can take photos in Holyrood Abbey and the park.
- Use the audio guide: An audio guide in multiple languages is included in the ticket price and provides valuable information.
- Visit the souvenir shop: The Holyrood Palace souvenir shop was our favorite in Edinburgh. It offers unique products you won’t find elsewhere.
- Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the palace and hiking in Holyrood Park.
- Visit the café: Enjoy a refreshing drink or snack at the palace café.
Frequently Asked Questions About Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh
A visit to Holyrood Palace typically takes about 1.5 hours. However, the duration may vary depending on how much time you spend in the different rooms and in Holyrood Abbey.
Construction of Holyrood Palace began in 1671 and was completed in 1678. The palace was built on the site of a former abbey dating back to the 12th century.
Holyrood Palace is owned by the British Crown and serves as the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. It is managed by the Royal Collection Trust.
