Palace of Holyroodhouse
The King’s official residence in Scotland, with Mary Queen of Scots’ chambers and the abbey ruins.
The state apartments are grand, but the reason to go is the sixteenth-century rooms where Mary Queen of Scots lived and where her secretary was murdered. The ruined abbey and the gardens are outdoors, so a dry day gets you the full visit. Closed when the royal family is in residence; check before you go.
When it works
Partly outdoors: better on a dry day, with shelter if it turns. Best morning, afternoon.
Good for a first visit and groups.
On these lists
- Things to do in Edinburgh when the sun is out
- Things to do in Edinburgh this weekend
- Plan an afternoon in Edinburgh around it
Opening hours and prices change; the official site has the current ones. See everything in Edinburgh ranked for right now.