The Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh 2026

Standing at the eastern end of Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is one of the city’s most important historic landmarks. It is the official residence of The King in Edinburgh and has centuries of association with Scotland’s royal history, including Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie.

This Palace of Holyroodhouse Edinburgh visitor guide covers everything you need to plan your visit, including opening hours, tickets, how much time to spend at the palace and the easiest ways to get to Holyroodhouse from nearby attractions, Edinburgh Airport and other parts of the city.

Whether you’re visiting Edinburgh for the weekend, exploring the Royal Mile or planning a private sightseeing trip, Holyroodhouse is a great place to experience Scotland’s royal heritage.

Where Is the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh?

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at the lower end of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, opposite the Scottish Parliament and close to Holyrood Park.

Its central location makes it easy to combine the palace with many of Edinburgh’s other major attractions in one day. Visitors can walk down the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle and explore historic attractions such as St Giles’ Cathedral and Edinburgh Old Town along the way.

As the Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle at one end with Holyroodhouse at the other, the palace fits naturally into an Edinburgh sightseeing itinerary.

For visitors who prefer not to walk long distances, a taxi, private transfer or chauffeur-driven city tour can provide a more comfortable way to travel between Edinburgh’s attractions.

Why Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse?

Holyroodhouse is not simply a historic building. It remains a working royal residence while also welcoming visitors during much of the year.

Inside, visitors can explore historic royal rooms and learn about the palace’s connections with important figures in Scottish history. Mary, Queen of Scots has a particularly strong association with Holyroodhouse, while the palace continues to be used for official royal functions.

The experience is particularly interesting for visitors interested in royal history, historic architecture and the wider story of Edinburgh.

Another advantage of visiting Holyroodhouse is its location. Visitors can experience an important royal landmark without travelling far from central Edinburgh.

What Can You See at the Palace of Holyroodhouse?

There is much more to explore than the exterior of the palace.

A visit usually allows guests to explore historic State Apartments and discover rooms connected with Scotland’s royal past. The story of Mary, Queen of Scots is one of the most memorable parts of the Holyroodhouse experience.

Another major highlight is Holyrood Abbey.

The atmospheric ruins of the abbey sit beside the palace and provide a striking contrast to the formal royal residence. Visitors looking for a Holyrood Abbey Edinburgh visitor guide can therefore easily include both attractions during the same visit.

Depending on your ticket and the exhibitions running during your trip, you may also want to explore The King’s Gallery beside the palace. The gallery hosts changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection.

Palace of Holyroodhouse Opening Hours in 2026

Opening hours vary throughout the year because Holyroodhouse is a working royal residence.

For the period from September 17 to October 31, 2026, the Palace is scheduled to open from Thursday to Monday from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, with last entry at 4:30 PM.

From November 1 to December 31, the published schedule is 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM from Thursday to Monday, with last admission at 3:15 PM.

Visitors should always check the latest official information from the Royal Collection Trust before travelling. Because this is a working royal residence, opening arrangements and closures can occasionally change at short notice.

Checking before departure is particularly important if Holyroodhouse is one of the main reasons for your visit to Edinburgh.

Palace of Holyroodhouse Tickets

Visitors can purchase tickets in advance or, depending on availability, on the day of their visit.

For standard entry in 2026, the published adult price is £22 when booked in advance and £26 when purchased on the day. Reduced prices may be available for young people, children and eligible disabled visitors. Children under five can enter free of charge.

Ticket prices and arrangements may change, so it is best to confirm the latest Palace of Holyroodhouse ticket information directly with the official attraction before travelling.

Booking in advance can also make planning easier during busy tourist periods.

If you’re travelling with Scotland Travel Solution, remember that private transport or a chauffeur-driven tour is separate from the attraction entrance ticket. STS private tours provide flexible sightseeing transport, while attraction entry fees are not included unless specifically stated.