Among all the celebrated memorials and attractions of Great Britain, the famous residence of Queen Elizabeth II located in Scotland is definitely worth noting.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh is the state property which passes over to the usage of the next monarchs.
Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh © Songquan Deng / Shutterstock
A little bit of history
Once, there used to be the Holyrood Abbey on the site of the Palace. It was founded by King David I of Scotland in 1128. The legend says that during the hunting, the King saw a vision in the shape of a deer. The rood was glowing between his horns. This became the sign to found a monastery and that’s why it was called like that. However, almost after 600 years, the building of the abbey crumbled. Thus, nowadays we can only admire the beautifully renovated picturesque ruins.
The used to be a hotel attached to the abbey back in the XV century. It was the non-official residence of the Kings of Scotland. Later, James IV of Scotland ordered to build a castle on its site. It was a building in the Renaissance style which became the main royal palace. In the XVI century, it used to be the private residence of Mary, Queen of Scots. Her apartment is well-preserved with all the details. At the order of King Charles II, the castle was slightly rebuilt in 1679.
As a rule, the Queen of Great Britain uses the residence during her official visits to Scotland. By the old tradition, she must spend one week in the palace. Here, she appointed the First Minister of Scotland and arranges various royal receptions.
When the Queen is not visiting, the palace which is one of the most popular attractions in Edinburgh, open its doors to the tourists.
Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh © Aeypix / Shutterstock
What to see in Holyroodhouse:
- The Royal Apartments which are used by Duke of Edinburgh and Her Majesty during their official visits to Scotland;
- The throne room which is used giving the knighthood of the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle;
- The Historic Apartments which used to be the private apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots and her husband Lord Darnley;
- The exposition in the chapel for the Order of the Thistle. This reward is given to the Scots who make a significant contribution to the life and history of the nation, and people obtaining public positions.
During summers, tourists can enjoy a full tour around the territory of the Abbey. The professional guide will tell you the fascinating detail about the monarchs’ lives. Interesting stories, picturesque landscapes, and stunning architecture will leave an indelible impression about the famous Scottish attraction.
All the fans to wander along the museum halls, diving into the history of the country and city, should also visit the National Museum of Scotland with a huge collection of antiquities.
Photos Holyrood Palace
Holyrood Palace on the map
Holyrood Palace - attractions nearby
Calton Hill
Writers’ Museum
National Museum of Scotland
Edinburgh Castle
Loch Lomond
National Gallery of Scotland
Arthur's Seat
Princes Street
Royal Mile
Royal Yacht Britannia
Isle of Skye
Linlithgow Palace
Stirling Castle
Edinburgh Dungeon
Museum of Edinburgh (Huntly House)
Jacobite Steam Train
Edinburgh Cruise Port at Leith
Canongate
John Knox House Museum
Nelson Monument
Edinburgh Old Town
Royal Scottish Academy
Scott Monument
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art One
Entrance tickets & Tours
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10 reviews
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19€
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2 reviews
Explore Edinburgh, which has been the capital of Scotland since the 15th Century and stands proudly on seven hills, from the comfort of your own private minibus. Compare Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town, where people lived in cramped conditions, to the elegant Georgian New Town. Enjoy undivided attention from your private guide and learn all about this fascinating city on this 8-hour tour.
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