About this activity
Editor's Note
Look, most of the industry focuses on driving up occupancy rates for the "Instagrammable" spots like the Castle, but frankly, if you’re skipping the Palace of Holyroodhouse, you’re missing the actual soul of the Royal Mile. While some operators just want to push high-volume leads through the same three gift shops, I’ve always felt this end of the Mile offers a more authentic vibe. It’s where the "real" business of the monarchy happens today—not just some dusty museum piece, but a working palace where RevPAR doesn't matter because, well, the King actually uses the furniture. Is it a bit more "establishment" than the edgy side of Edinburgh? Sure. But standing in the room where Rizzio was literally dragged to his death offers a grit that no modern tour-bus script can replicate. Quite a contrast to the posh morning drawing rooms, isn't it?
About the Tour
Step inside the official Scottish residence of His Majesty The King and explore a baroque masterpiece that serves as the bookend to Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile. This isn't just a walk through a gallery; it’s an invitation into the rooms where Scottish history was—and still is—written.
The State Apartments
The heart of the palace lies in its State Apartments. As you wander through, you’ll notice the evolving tastes of different monarchs reflected in the ornate plasterwork ceilings and the massive, intricate Brussels tapestries. These rooms aren't just for show; they remain the backdrop for official ceremonies and royal entertaining.
- The Throne Room: Imagine the grand lunches held here for the Knights and Ladies of the Order of the Thistle.
- The Morning Drawing Room: See the intimate setting where the King conducts private audiences.
- The Great Gallery: The palace's largest room, lined with Jacob de Wet’s portraits of Scottish kings, both legendary and real. This is also where the prestigious Investiture ceremonies take place.
Mary Queen of Scots' Historic Chambers
Perhaps the most evocative part of the visit is the apartment once occupied by Mary Queen of Scots. These walls witnessed some of the most dramatic and dark moments in Scottish history, including the infamous and brutal murder of Mary’s secretary, David Rizzio, at the hands of her husband, Lord Darnley. It’s a chilling, must-see glimpse into the 16th-century court life.
Gardens and Beyond
After you've soaked in the history of the interiors, take a stroll through the lavish palace gardens. To wrap up the afternoon, the Café at the Palace offers a spot for a light lunch or a refreshing tea (at your own expense), allowing you to decompress before heading back into the bustle of the city.
Highlights
- Explore the King's official residence in Scotland at Holyroodhouse
- Learn about dramatic events from Scotland's history in Mary Queen of Scots' chambers
- Wander the picturesque ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey
- Enjoy a refreshing drink, snack or lunch in the Café at the Palace (own expense)
- Stand in rooms still used by the King for official and private engagements
Know before you go
- Concessionary rates for disabled visitors and a complimentary companion ticket are only available to book directly with Royal Collection Trust.
- You may be subject to security checks. Some items may have to be checked in and reclaimed at the end of your visit
- Tickets purchased through GetYourGuide cannot be converted into a 1-year-pass
- For safety and security reasons, a 1-way route operates inside the Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted in the Palace of Holyroodhouse
- In consideration of other visitors, mobile phones must be switched off inside the Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Image credit: Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III