HOLYROOD ABBEY

THE PALACE OF HOLYROODHOUSE

Discover the enchanting history of Holyrood Abbey, a medieval marvel nestled in the shadows of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, whose ancient stones tell tales of Scotland's storied past.

Panoramic view of the Gothic ruins of Holyrood Abbey on a cloudy day, emphasizing its historical grandeur.
Detailed stonework of Holyrood Abbey's arched windows, showcasing medieval craftsmanship.
Visitors exploring the serene grounds around the remains of Holyrood Abbey, set against the backdrop of the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
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Holyrood Abbey

Legend has it that, in 1127, King David I of Scotland had been hunting in the forests east of Edinburgh when he was suddenly thrown from his horse by a charging hart. Clutching the beast’s antlers in self-defence, he was saved at the last minute when the hart was startled by sunlight reflecting from a crucifix. As an act of thanksgiving, David I founded Holyrood Abbey on the site in 1128, named after the crucifix that saved his life.


Visit Holyrood Abbey

Today, you can wander through the Abbey nave and gardens where kings and queens have walked. See the East Processional Doorway, the only surviving part of David I’s original monastery, and the West Front of the rebuilt church, one of the most impressive Gothic facades in Scotland.
Now, you can even view the Royal Vault, the final resting place of royalty.

journeyoin the Palace Wardens on a daily guided tour of the Abbey and discover more about the myths and legends surrounding this iconic national treasure.

Tours start inside the Abbey and run every hour. Or, you can purchase the interactive audio guide and tour the Abbey yourself, taking in the expert commentary documenting these centuries-old ruins.

Check Ticket Availability

Visit The Palace of Holyroodhouse in 2024
Check tour & ticket availability now.

BOOK TICKETS NOW

Visiting The Palace of Holyroodhouse in 2024

The palace of Holyrood House can be visited by means of a timed ticket – this means we can manage visitor numbers and ensure everyone’s safety.

To help everything run smoothly and be sure of being able to visit at the time you wish, we recommend you book your tickets online.

Opening Times

Note: Kensington Palace is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and between 24th - 26th December.

April – October

Open: 09:30 - 18:00 - Last admission: 16.30

November – March

Open: 09:30 - 16:30 - Last admission: 15:15

Accessibility

The Palace of Holyrood house is mostly accessible for visitors who use a wheelchair or have other mobility needs.
We also offer a number of solutions for visitors who are D/deaf or hard of hearing, blind or partially sighted or who have autism.
Where possible we offer parking for visitors with disabilities.

Visitors Frequently Asked Questions

It is best to book in advance to ensure entry as tickets often sell out. Book Now
Children under 5 enter for free.
Current Ticket Prices for 2024
Adult (25+) £20.00
Child (5-17) £10.00
Young Person (18-24) £13.00

Please Note: Concessionary tickets are only available to book directly with Royal Collection Trust.
Please contact +44 (0)303 123 7324 or specialistsales@rct.uk or visit the Royal Collection Trust website.

Yes, the Palace offers both self-guided audio tours, which are included in the admission price, and guided tours by a warder for an additional fee. The audio tour is available in several languages and provides extensive information about the palace's history and its rooms.

Yes, tickets for The Palace of Holyroodhouse can be purchased online here. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended to ensure entry on your preferred date and to avoid long lines at the ticket office.

Yes, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is accessible to visitors with disabilities. Wheelchairs are available free of charge, and there are accessible toilets. Please contact the palace before your visit if you have specific accessibility needs.

The Palace is located at the eastern end of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. It is easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and taxis. If you are driving, there are public parking areas nearby, but parking on site is limited to disabled badge holders.

There is no strict dress code for visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse, but smart casual dress is recommended, especially if you are attending any special events or functions.

Don't miss the historic apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots, the beautiful 16th-century ruins of Holyrood Abbey, and the Queen’s Gallery, which hosts a rotating exhibition of items from the Royal Collection.

Yes, there are several attractions and landmarks near the Palace. Some popular options include Scottish Parliament Building, Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Canongate Kirk, all within walking distance.