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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 04 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Lucy Gillmore

Once the home of Mary Queen of Scots, today it’s used as a residence when the British Monarch is visiting. Rebuilt during the 16th and 17th centuries, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is an elegant pile at the bottom of the Royal Mile with a ruined abbey, art gallery and obligatory gift shop.

Mooch around the Royal Apartments, still used for official business, and snoop around Mary Queen of Scots’ chambers for a fascinating peek into the life of the monarchy past and present.

During the summer (1 May-30 Sept) you can book a private half-hour tour of the gardens, exploring their history and seeing parts of the grounds normally closed to the public.

Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience

Price from: £17
Minimum age: 3
Age suitable: 8+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse top and tail the Royal Mile. The palace is opposite the strikingly contemporary Scottish Parliament building, in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat.

A 1-hour audio tour (multiple languages) is included in the ticket price (bring your own headphones if possible). A printed version of the transcript is available on request. There’s also a specific audio guide (in English) aimed at children aged 7-11, searching for mysterious unicorns and lions. In summer there are hourly (except midday) guided tours of the ruined abbey, founded by King David I of Scotland in 1128, with wardens clad in Stewart tartan.

The café in the courtyard is charming and serves simple soups, salads and sandwiches, along with home-made cakes.

When to do it

It’s open all year round, Thursday to Monday. Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Cheval Abbey Strand

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.1 miles]

History-steeped aparthotel with contemporary designer interiors, perfectly located for sightseeing at the bottom of the Royal Mile.

Official star rating:

The Balmoral Hotel

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.1 miles]

The grand dame of Edinburgh’s hotel scene, this luxurious landmark hotel is still the epitome of elegance.

Official star rating:

Market Street Hotel

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.1 miles]

A cool, central upside-down design hotel with a rooftop terrace and champagne lounge. Perfect for those who love cool design and champagne sundowners.

Official star rating:

Cheval Old Town Chambers

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.2 miles]

Chic, contemporary design and a family and pet-friendly ethos come as standard in these luxury apartments in Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Region, United Kingdom (UK)

Capital treats abound, from mighty castles and royal palaces to gourmet restaurants and arguably the world’s best performing arts festival.

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Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

National Museum of Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.3 miles]

Scotland’s history, culture, art and design, science and technology – under one state-of-the-art roof. Special exhibits include the story of Mary Queen of Scots and Dolly the sheep.

Best for ages: 4+ | Free

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.8 miles]

Edinburgh’s impressive hilltop castle, with bags of history and a bird’s-eye view over the capital.

Best for ages: 4+ | £1,750

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Queen’s Gallery Edinburgh
Experience

Queen’s Gallery Edinburgh

Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.1 miles]

Part of the Holyroodhouse complex, this art gallery exhibits a rotating collection of works from the Royal Collection. It’s one of 13 venues that showcase the largest private art collection in the world. Open daily.

Best for ages: 18+ | £9

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The Chocolatarium
Experience

The Chocolatarium

Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.8 miles]

This micro-chocolate factory in the city centre offers 90-minute introduction tours to all aspects of chocolate-making, and you get you create your own bar to take away. There are also truffle-making masterclasses, and a unique chocolate and Scottish whisky experience that pairs artisan chocolates with single malts.

Best for ages: 6+ | £20

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Walk up Arthur’s Seat

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.1 miles]

An enjoyable, one-hour, hilltop climb rewarded by panoramic views of the city and beyond.

Best for ages: 8+ | Free | 2 hours

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Edinburgh Dungeon
Experience

Edinburgh Dungeon

Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.2 miles]

An underground yomp through the darkest episodes in the city’s history, including the story of body-snatchers Burke & Hare, a torture chamber and the Grassmarket Gallows – a re-creation of when Edinburgh’s central square was famous for its hangings.

Best for ages: 10+ | £18

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