Palace of Holyroodhouse
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.1 miles]
Peek into the life of the monarchy, past and present, at this ancient royal residence – once the home of Mary Queen of Scots.
Best for ages: 8+ | £17
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One for royalists and history lovers, this exclusive aparthotel nudges up against the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the bottom of the Royal Mile, with views onto the striking Scottish Parliament building and Arthur’s Seat.
The 16th-century building was at one time a medieval almshouse, at another a debtors’ sanctuary and Mary Queen of Scots is also said to have bedded down here.
Now converted into nine contemporary studio, one-bed and two-bed apartments this is one of the fanciest addresses in town.
Each apartment is named after a former inhabitant and the open-plan living spaces, some with original features including the odd medieval fireplace, are high-end and sleek, the fabrics specially commissioned, the furniture bespoke.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.1 miles]
Peek into the life of the monarchy, past and present, at this ancient royal residence – once the home of Mary Queen of Scots.
Best for ages: 8+ | £17
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.9 miles]
Edinburgh’s culinary scene, the best in Scotland, is an exciting mix of rustic field-to-fork eateries, glitzy Michelin-starred restaurants and earthy farmers’ markets.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free | Any
Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.1 miles]
A military band and thundering cannon spectacular, set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Best for ages: 6+ | £25 | 90 minutes
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.2 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
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[0 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
Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[0.6 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
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.1 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
Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[1.1 miles]
Deep beneath the Royal Mile, a cast of characters weaves gritty tales of medieval life around a perfectly preserved 17th-century street.
Best for ages: 5+ | £19 | 1 hour
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
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.