Top Things To Do In Holyrood Palace (Edinburgh) In 2026 - 2027
Historic Site
Top 10 things to do in Holyrood Palace
1. The Palace of Holyroodhouse Tour
Explore the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh and the home of Scottish royal history with The Palace of Holyroodhouse Tour. This tour gives you the chance to see the State Apartments, which are renowned for their incredible plasterwork ceilings and fine furniture. You can also visit the historic apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots, where her Italian secretary David Rizzio was murdered. The palace’s story is rich with history, featuring tales of kings and queens from the days of the Scottish Enlightenment. As you walk through each room, you’ll be able to view a wonderful collection of tapestries, paintings, and other artifacts that have adorned the walls over the centuries, giving you a glimpse into the lives of Scotland's royalty.Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: £17.00 for adults, £15.50 for over 60s, £10.20 for under 17s
2. Gardens and Grounds Tour
The Gardens and Grounds Tour at Holyrood Palace offers an immersive experience into the royal landscapes that have surrounded the palace for centuries. With this tour, you'll have the opportunity to stroll through the Queen's Gallery and witness where monarchs once walked. The gardens extend to around 4 hectares, and you can enjoy the beautiful panorama against the backdrop of Arthur's Seat, one of Edinburgh's most iconic landmarks. Admire the varied plant collection and the 17th-century styled landscapes. This tour might also touch on the history of the grounds, which were at one stage royal hunting grounds and later transformed into the beautiful gardens you see today.
